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Fiesta Dinnerware Carrot Cake Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups chopped pecans
  • 1-1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 eggs
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1-1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 2 cups grated carrots

Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 16 oz cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
  • 4-1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 TBS heavy cream
  • 1-1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt to taste

Instructions

Make the cake

  • Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the chopped pecans on the sheet and toast for 7-8 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10-15 minutes. 
  • Turn the oven up to 350 degrees. Grease two or three 9-inch cake pans, line with parchment paper, then grease the parchment paper. 
  • Whisk the brown sugar, granulated sugar, oil, eggs, applesauce, and vanilla together in a large bowl until combined and no brown sugar lumps remain. In another large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and ginger. 
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and, using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, fold the ingredients together until just combined. Fold in the carrots and 1 cup of the toasted pecans. 
  • Pour the batter evenly into the cake pans. If using 3 cake pans, bake for 20-24 minutes. If using two cake pans, bake for 30-35 minutes. Test the center with a toothpick. Do not over-bake. Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans on a wire rack. The cakes must be completely cool before assembling and frosting. 

Make the frosting

  • In a large bowl, using a handheld or stand mixer to beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth, about 2 minutes. Add the powdered sugar, cream, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Beat on low for 30 seconds, then increase speed to high and beat for 3 minutes until completely combined and creamy. 
  • Assemble and frost cakes. Enjoy!