Carrot Bundt Cake

Introduction

What if you could enjoy the comforting nostalgia of classic carrot cake—reimagined in a stunning, golden Bundt form that’s as moist as it is aromatic? The Carrot Bundt Cake is a timeless dessert that proves indulgence can also feel wholesome. Packed with freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and a silky cream cheese glaze, this recipe blends rustic charm with bakery-level sophistication. Whether served at Easter brunch, Sunday tea, or cozy family gatherings, this cake brings the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and texture to the table.


Ingredients List

For the Carrot Bundt Cake

  • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour – the foundation for a tender crumb.
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar – adds moisture and molasses depth.
  • 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable oil – keeps cake soft for days.
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature – structure and richness.
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 ½ cups (270 g) finely grated carrots – the heart of the recipe.
  • ½ cup (120 ml) crushed pineapple, drained – adds subtle sweetness.
  • ½ cup (60 g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional but adds crunch).

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

  • 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
  • 2 Tbsp milk or cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Substitutions:

  • Replace oil with applesauce for a lighter version.
  • For nut-free: omit walnuts or replace with shredded coconut.
  • For dairy-free: use vegan cream cheese and almond milk.

Timing

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Baking Time: 50–55 minutes
  • Cooling & Glazing: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: ~1 hour 55 minutes — about 10% faster than a layered carrot cake since no stacking or frosting is required.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-cup Bundt pan thoroughly.
In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
In another large bowl, whisk together sugars, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth and glossy.
Gradually fold in the dry ingredients, then stir in grated carrots, pineapple, and nuts. The batter should be thick but pourable.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan. Smooth the top.
Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake rest in the pan for 15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

Beat cream cheese until creamy. Add powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and salt.
Mix until smooth and pourable. Adjust consistency with a little more milk if needed.

Step 4: Glaze and Serve

Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it cascade down the ridges of the Bundt for that signature bakery look. Garnish with chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon for an elegant finish.


Nutritional Information (per slice, 1/12 of cake)

NutrientAmount
Calories420 kcal
Carbohydrates48 g
Protein6 g
Fat22 g
Fiber2 g
Sugar32 g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

  • Use whole-wheat pastry flour to increase fiber while keeping texture soft.
  • Reduce sugar by 25%—the carrots and pineapple add natural sweetness.
  • Swap oil for Greek yogurt or mashed banana to cut fat.
  • Add oats or flaxseed for extra texture and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
  • For breakfast, enjoy a plain slice with a cup of coffee or chai.
  • Add fresh berries or candied orange peel for an elegant brunch presentation.
  • Dust with powdered sugar instead of glaze for a lighter, rustic finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Overmixing the batter – results in a dense, chewy cake. Mix just until combined.
  2. Skipping the flour coating on the Bundt pan – the cake may stick to the intricate mold.
  3. Undercooking – ensure the skewer comes out clean before removing.
  4. Adding too much pineapple juice – can make the cake soggy.
  5. Glazing while warm – will melt the glaze and lose the signature drizzle effect.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

  • Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigerator: Keeps 4–5 days; bring to room temp before serving.
  • Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months; thaw overnight before glazing.

Conclusion

This Carrot Bundt Cake is everything you love about classic carrot cake—moist, spiced, and gorgeously glazed—made simpler in one elegant Bundt form. Each bite bursts with flavor and nostalgia. Try it today, share your results in the comments, and subscribe for more timeless cake recipes!


FAQs

Q1: Can I make this cake without pineapple?
Yes—just replace it with ¼ cup applesauce for moisture and sweetness.

Q2: Can I add raisins?
Absolutely! Stir in ½ cup soaked raisins for added texture.

Q3: How do I prevent the cake from sticking?
Grease every nook of the Bundt pan and dust with flour or use baking spray with flour included.

Q4: Can I bake this as cupcakes or a loaf?
Yes—bake cupcakes for 20–22 minutes or a loaf for about 55–60 minutes.

Q5: Can I make it ahead?
Definitely—this cake actually tastes better the next day as the spices deepen.

Carrot Bundt Cake

Recipe by Sara
Servings

10

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

45

minutes
Calories

420

kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour

  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder

  • 1 tsp baking soda

  • 1 tsp cinnamon

  • ½ tsp nutmeg

  • ½ tsp salt

  • 3 large eggs

  • 1 cup (200 g) brown sugar

  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar

  • 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable oil

  • 2 cups finely grated carrots

  • ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained

  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a Bundt pan.
  • In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  • In another bowl, beat eggs, sugars, and oil until smooth. Add vanilla.
  • Stir in grated carrots, pineapple, and nuts.
  • Fold in dry ingredients until just combined — do not overmix.
  • Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a rack to cool completely.
  • Whisk glaze ingredients and drizzle over cooled cake before serving.