Introduction
Salted Caramel Carrot Dream Cake is a luxurious twist on the classic carrot cake, combining warm spices, tender crumb, and a rich salted caramel finish that takes it to another level. This cake is moist, deeply flavorful, and beautifully balanced between sweetness and subtle saltiness. I first made this version when I wanted a carrot cake that felt more celebratory and decadent, and it instantly became a standout dessert. The natural sweetness of carrots pairs wonderfully with caramel, while the gentle spice keeps the cake from tasting heavy. Finished with a creamy frosting and a drizzle of salted caramel, this cake feels elegant yet comforting. It is ideal for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion where you want a dessert that looks impressive and tastes unforgettable.
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Salted Caramel Carrot Dream Cake – Moist, Spiced, and Perfectly Indulgent
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist and tender carrot cake layered with rich cream cheese frosting and finished with a luscious salted caramel drizzle for an indulgent dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups finely grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce
- Flaky sea salt for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, applesauce, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in grated carrots and nuts if using.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes completely before frosting.
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, then add powdered sugar and vanilla and beat until fluffy.
- Frost cake layers, drizzle salted caramel sauce over the top, and finish with flaky sea salt.
Notes
- Grate carrots finely for the best texture.
- Homemade or store-bought salted caramel both work well.
- Chill cake slightly before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is incredibly moist, perfectly spiced, and elevated with rich salted caramel. It bakes beautifully, slices cleanly, and feels both nostalgic and indulgent.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
All-Purpose Flour
Flour provides structure while allowing the cake to remain soft and tender.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda
These leavening agents help the cake rise evenly and maintain a light crumb.
Salt
Salt enhances sweetness and balances the caramel and spices.
Ground Cinnamon
Cinnamon adds warmth and classic carrot cake flavor.
Ground Nutmeg
Nutmeg contributes subtle spice and depth.
Vegetable Oil
Oil keeps the cake moist and tender, even after chilling.
Granulated Sugar
Granulated sugar sweetens the batter and supports structure.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar adds moisture and caramel-like depth.
Eggs
Eggs bind the batter and create richness and stability.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile.
Freshly Grated Carrots
Carrots provide moisture, sweetness, and signature texture.
Chopped Nuts
Nuts add crunch and contrast to the soft cake crumb.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese forms the base of the frosting, adding tang and creaminess.
Butter
Butter adds richness and smoothness to the frosting.
Powdered Sugar
Powdered sugar sweetens and stabilizes the frosting.
Salted Caramel Sauce
Salted caramel adds indulgent sweetness and a dramatic finish.
Directions
Begin by preheating the oven and preparing your cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In a separate bowl, combine oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla, mixing until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Fold in the grated carrots and chopped nuts.
Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans and bake until the cakes are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.
To prepare the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until light and fluffy.
Assemble the cake by layering frosting between cake layers. Frost the outside evenly, then drizzle salted caramel sauce over the top, allowing it to gently drip down the sides. Chill briefly before slicing.
Equipment needed :
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This cake serves approximately 10 to 12 people. Preparation takes about 30 minutes, baking time is 30 minutes, and cooling and assembly require about 1 hour.
Storage/reheating
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. Allow slices to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Variations and Customizations
This carrot cake can be adapted easily while keeping its signature character. For extra texture, add crushed pineapple or shredded coconut to the batter. Raisins can also be included for a more traditional flavor profile.
If you prefer a lighter frosting, reduce the amount of frosting between layers and focus on the caramel drizzle for sweetness. For a stronger spice profile, add ground ginger or cloves.
The salted caramel can be homemade or store-bought. For a less sweet finish, reduce the caramel drizzle and add a light sprinkle of flaky salt on top instead.
You can also bake this recipe as a sheet cake or cupcakes, adjusting baking time accordingly.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This cake is a rich dessert containing carbohydrates, fats, and sugars, along with nutrients from carrots and nuts. It is vegetarian-friendly and intended as an occasional indulgence.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Carrot preparation
Use freshly grated carrots for maximum moisture.
Even baking
Weigh batter evenly between pans for uniform layers.
Clean presentation
Chill the cake briefly before slicing for sharp edges.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, it can be baked and frosted a day in advance.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, a good-quality salted caramel works well.
Do I need to peel the carrots?
Yes, peeling ensures a smoother texture.
Can I make this cake without nuts?
Yes, simply omit them if preferred.
Is this cake very sweet?
The salt in the caramel balances the sweetness nicely.
Can I freeze carrot cake?
Yes, unfrosted cake layers freeze well.
What frosting works best besides cream cheese?
A vanilla buttercream also pairs nicely.
Why is my carrot cake dense?
Overmixing the batter can cause density.
Can I bake this in one pan?
Yes, but adjust baking time accordingly.
Should the cake be refrigerated?
Yes, due to the cream cheese frosting.
Conclusion
Salted Caramel Carrot Dream Cake is an elevated take on a classic dessert, offering moist texture, warm spice, and indulgent caramel flavor. Perfect for celebrations or special occasions, this cake delivers comfort, elegance, and unforgettable taste in every slice.
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