Description: This moist and spiced carrot cake is a classic Irish dessert, featuring flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of ginger. Made with grated carrots, raisins, and walnuts, and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Serving Size: Serves 8-10

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
  
  • 2 cups grated carrots
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ¾ cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • 1½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup raisins
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
  
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 4 tbsp butter, softened
  • 1½ cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, beat together the oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add in the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
4. Add Carrots and Mix-Ins:
   Fold in the grated carrots, raisins, and walnuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
5. Bake the Cake:
   Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool the Cake:
   Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Prepare the Frosting:
   In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy.
8. Frost and Serve:
   Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Garnish with additional walnuts if desired.

Enjoy this delicious Irish carrot cake as a cozy, sweet treat with tea or coffee!