Gordon Ramsay Carrot Cake Recipe

Short Description

This carrot cake recipe, inspired by Gordon Ramsay, features a perfectly moist and spiced crumb enriched with applesauce and studded with toasted pecans. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, it is an ideal dessert for any celebration or cozy afternoon indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist texture thanks to applesauce and finely grated carrots
• Richly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger
• Delightful crunch from toasted pecans
• Lush cream cheese frosting that balances sweetness and tang
• A crowd-pleasing dessert suitable for all occasions

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

• Chopped pecans
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Vegetable or canola oil
• Eggs
• Unsweetened applesauce
• Pure vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground ginger
• Ground nutmeg
• Ground cloves
• Finely grated carrots

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• Full-fat brick cream cheese
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (149°C). Toast the pecans for 7–8 minutes, then let cool.
2. Increase the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C). Grease and line two or three 9-inch round cake pans.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, oil, eggs, applesauce, and vanilla until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Stir in grated carrots and 1 cup of the toasted pecans.
7. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes (two pans) or 20–24 minutes (three pans), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.
8. Prepare the frosting by beating the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, and beat until creamy.
9. Assemble the cake by layering and frosting each tier, then covering the entire cake. Garnish with remaining toasted pecans if desired.
10. Chill for 15–20 minutes before slicing for neat presentation.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour

Variations

• Add ½ cup of drained crushed pineapple for a fruity touch
• Mix in ½ cup shredded coconut for texture and flavor
• Make cupcakes using the same batter and bake for 20–22 minutes
• Omit pecans for a nut-free version without affecting the flavor

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days
• Freeze slices by wrapping them in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving

FAQs

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, the cake layers can be baked a day or two ahead. Store them tightly wrapped in the refrigerator and frost the day of serving.

What can I substitute for applesauce?

Crushed pineapple (well-drained) or Greek yogurt can be used in equal measure as an alternative.

Is the frosting very sweet?

The frosting is well-balanced, with the tanginess of the cream cheese preventing it from being overly sweet.

Can I omit the nuts?

Yes, simply leave out the pecans for a nut-free version. The cake will still be moist and flavorful.

Can I bake this cake in a single pan?

You can use a sheet pan or a deep round pan; just adjust the baking time and check for doneness with a toothpick.

How should I store leftover cake?

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to five days in a sealed container.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, freeze individual slices or the entire frosted cake wrapped tightly. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use store-bought grated carrots?

Freshly grated carrots are preferred, as they’re more moist and integrate better into the batter than pre-shredded versions.

What type of cream cheese should I use?

Full-fat, brick-style cream cheese gives the best consistency and flavor for the frosting.

How do I keep the cake from sticking to the pans?

Grease the pans and line them with parchment paper to ensure easy release after baking.

Conclusion

Gordon Ramsay’s carrot cake recipe delivers everything you want in a classic dessert — moisture, spice, richness, and texture. Whether served at a festive gathering or enjoyed as an indulgent treat, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

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