Lloyds Carrot Cake Recipe

Jennifer Segal

14 Oct, 2023

Lloyd's Carrot Cake Recipe: A Delectable Delight with Moist Layers and Creamy Frosting

Lloyds Carrot Cake

Publisher: Lloyds
Cuisine: American
Category: Dessert
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: 350 calories

About this recipe

Lloyd's carrot cake is a delightful dessert that's like a cozy hug for your taste buds. It's a classic American recipe, so think of it as a bit of edible nostalgia.

A moist and tender cake, thanks to all those grated carrots that add both flavor and moisture. The warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a lovely spice note that complements the sweetness of the cake. And if you're a nut fan, you can toss in some walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch in every bite.

But wait, there's more! The magic happens when you slather on that creamy, dreamy cream cheese frosting. It's like a fluffy cloud of sweetness that balances the cake's earthy tones. Imagine a mix of cream cheese and butter, whipped to perfection, and then powdered sugar and vanilla join the party, creating a rich and tangy finish.

Prepping this cake takes around 20 minutes – that's grating carrots, mixing up the batter, and getting it into the oven. It bakes for about 25 to 30 minutes, filling your kitchen with warm, cozy aromas. Once the cakes are out of the oven, they cool down while you whip up that amazing cream cheese frosting. Then comes the fun part: layering the frosting between the cakes and all over the top and sides.

When it's all assembled, you're left with a cake that's not only visually appealing, but it also delivers on flavor. The cream cheese frosting is the perfect partner for the moist carrot cake, striking that balance between sweet and tangy.

This carrot cake is perfect for a family gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy evening treat. It's comfort food at its finest, and with each bite, you'll be reminded of those classic flavors that never go out of style. Just remember, the calorie count can vary a bit, but one slice might clock in at around 350 to 400 calories – a worthy indulgence for the happiness it brings!

Why make this recipe?

You should definitely try this carrot cake recipe because it offers a wonderful combination of flavors, textures, and a touch of nostalgia that's hard to resist. Here are a few compelling reasons to give it a go:

Delicious Flavor Profile: The mix of sweet, earthy carrots, warm spices, and creamy cream cheese frosting creates a balanced and delightful taste that's both comforting and satisfying.
Moist and Tender Texture: The grated carrots and oil in the batter result in a moist and tender cake that's incredibly enjoyable to eat.
Easy to Make: The recipe is relatively straightforward, making it a great choice for both beginner and experienced bakers. The steps are clear, and the ingredients are common pantry staples.
Perfect for Special Occasions: Carrot cake is a classic choice for celebrations and gatherings. Its rustic charm and lovely appearance make it an ideal dessert for birthdays, potlucks, family dinners, and more.
Nostalgic Appeal: Carrot cake has a timeless quality that brings back fond memories for many people. Biting into a slice can evoke feelings of warmth and happiness.
Customizable: You can personalize the recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins, such as raisins, pineapple, or coconut. You can also adjust the spice level to your preference.
Impressive Presentation: The finished cake, with its layers of cream cheese frosting and optional decorations, looks impressive and inviting. It's sure to make a statement at any gathering.
Family-Friendly: Carrot cake's gentle flavors and familiar ingredients make it a hit with both kids and adults.
Homemade Goodness: There's something special about baking a cake from scratch. It's an opportunity to infuse your creation with care and love, making it even more enjoyable to share with friends and family.

Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this carrot cake recipe offers a delightful adventure in the kitchen and a satisfying treat for your taste buds. It's a dessert that's sure to bring smiles and create lasting memories.

What does Lloyds Carrot Cake taste like?

The taste of this Lloyds carrot cake recipe is a harmonious blend of comforting flavors that come together to create a truly delightful treat. Imagine the inviting sweetness of freshly grated carrots that infuses the cake with a natural and earthy sugary note.

The warm spices, such as cinnamon and nutmeg, add a layer of cozy complexity, with their aromatic and slightly peppery flavors dancing on your palate. These spices not only enhance the overall taste but also contribute to the cake's comforting aroma as it bakes.

The cake itself is moist and tender, thanks to the addition of oil and the moisture from the carrots. This soft texture pairs beautifully with the occasional crunch from the optional chopped nuts, adding a pleasant contrast that keeps each bite interesting.

Then, the star of the show – the cream cheese frosting – comes into play. It's a creamy, tangy layer that blankets the cake with a luscious richness. The cream cheese's tanginess balances the sweetness of the cake layers, creating a harmonious contrast that's both indulgent and refreshing.

As you savor a forkful of this carrot cake, you'll experience a delightful interplay of textures and flavors: the soft cake, the crunchy nuts, the warming spices, and the velvety frosting. It's a treat that encapsulates the comfort of homemade baking and the nostalgic flavors that make it an enduring favorite.

What would you need for this recipe?

These are the ingredients needed to make Lloyds Carrot Cake:

All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of the cake, providing structure and texture.
Grated Carrots: Carrots add natural sweetness, moisture, and color to the cake.
Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps to balance the flavors.
Vegetable Oil: Adds moisture to the cake, ensuring it stays soft and tender.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake's structure.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents help the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
Salt: Balances and enhances the flavors.
Ground Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Spices that give the cake its distinct warm and aromatic flavor.
Chopped Nuts (optional): Walnuts or pecans provide a satisfying crunch and extra flavor.
Cream Cheese: Adds a tangy and creamy element to the frosting.
Unsalted Butter: Contributes to the creaminess of the frosting.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the frosting.

Equipment needed

Mixing Bowls: Used to mix the dry and wet ingredients. You can use large bowls or even large pots as substitutes.
Grater: To grate the carrots. If you don't have a grater, you can use a food processor or finely chop the carrots.
Whisk: To combine ingredients evenly. A fork can be a substitute for whisking.
Electric Mixer: For beating eggs, sugar, and oil. If you don't have an electric mixer, you can use a hand whisk and a bit of elbow grease.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate measurements. Regular kitchen utensils can be used as a substitute.
9-inch Round Cake Pans: To bake the cake layers. You can use other cake pan sizes or even a rectangular pan, but the baking time might vary.
Oven: To bake the cake. If you don't have an oven, you might try searching for stovetop or microwave carrot cake recipes.
Cooling Rack: To cool the cakes after baking. You can use a clean, heat-resistant surface as a substitute.
Spatula or Cake Lifter: For transferring cakes and spreading frosting.
Knife: To level the cake layers and spread frosting.
Food Processor (optional): Instead of grating carrots, you can use a food processor to finely chop them.
Parchment Paper: To line the cake pans and prevent sticking. Greasing the pans can be an alternative.
Offset Spatula (optional): Useful for smooth frosting application, but a regular knife can also work.

How to make Lloyds Carrot Cake

Indulge in the deliciousness of Lloyd's Carrot Cake Recipe. Moist layers, warm spices, and creamy frosting await. A classic dessert perfected.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups grated carrots
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans), optional

Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz (227g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots and chopped nuts, if using.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Assembling the Cake:
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
Optional: Decorate with extra chopped nuts or grated carrots.
Refrigerate the cake for a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Enjoy your homemade carrot cake! Feel free to adjust the recipe to your taste preferences.

How do you serve Lloyds Carrot Cake recipe?

After making the carrot cake, here are the steps to serve it:

Cooling: Allow the freshly baked carrot cake to cool completely in the cake pans. This helps the cake set and makes it easier to handle when removing it from the pans.
Removing from Pans: Gently run a knife around the edges of the cake pans to loosen the cakes. Place a cooling rack or a flat plate on top of a cake layer, then carefully invert the pan to release the cake onto the rack or plate. Repeat for the second cake layer.
Frosting: If you haven't already, prepare the cream cheese frosting according to the recipe. Spread a generous layer of frosting onto the top of one cake layer.
Layering: Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the frosted layer. Press down gently to secure it in place.
Frosting the Top and Sides: Use an offset spatula, butter knife, or regular knife to spread the remaining cream cheese frosting over the top and sides of the cake. Start with a thin layer of frosting (called a "crumb coat") to seal in any loose crumbs, then add a final layer for a smooth finish.
Decorate (Optional): You can get creative with decorations! Consider sprinkling chopped nuts, grated carrots, or even a dusting of cinnamon on top. Or you could use piped cream cheese frosting to add swirls or patterns.
Slicing and Serving: Once the cake is frosted and decorated to your liking, use a sharp knife to carefully slice and serve individual pieces. Make sure to cut through the frosting and cake layers to get a bit of everything in each slice.
Enjoy: Serve each slice on plates or dessert dishes, and enjoy the fruits of your baking labor! You can pair it with a scoop of ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or enjoy it as is.

Remember that the cake is best enjoyed at room temperature, as this allows the flavors to fully develop. If you've refrigerated the cake, you might want to let it sit out for a little while before serving to let it soften slightly.

Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 2601 reviews.

Recipe Tags: Lloyds Carrot Cake, Lloyds Carrot Cake Recipe, Recipe, Easy, Homemade, Top rated

What to serve with?

Carrot cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of complementary accompaniments. Here are some options for what you can serve with this carrot cake:

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice! The creamy, cold texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts nicely with the warmth of the cake. The combination of cold and warm is delightful.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a light and airy touch to each bite of cake. It's a simple and elegant pairing.
Cream Cheese Frosting Swirl: If you have some extra cream cheese frosting, you can serve it on the side in a small dish. Guests can add an extra dollop to their cake if they desire.
Fresh Berries: Berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries provide a refreshing burst of juicy flavor that complements the sweetness of the cake.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a bit of caramel sauce over the cake can introduce a rich, caramelized flavor that pairs well with the carrot cake's spices.
Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote, such as apple or pear, adds a fruity and slightly tart element that contrasts with the sweetness of the cake.
Hot Beverages: Serve carrot cake with a cup of hot coffee, tea, or even hot cocoa. The warmth of the beverage complements the comfort of the cake.
Yogurt or Greek Yogurt: For a slightly healthier option, consider serving a spoonful of yogurt alongside your cake. The tanginess of yogurt can provide a nice balance to the sweetness.
Nuts: If you didn't include nuts in the cake itself, you could serve it with a small bowl of toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Cheese Plate: If you want to explore a more unique pairing, consider serving carrot cake alongside a cheese plate with mild cheeses like cream cheese, brie, or goat cheese.

Ultimately, the choice of what to serve with carrot cake depends on your personal preferences and the overall theme of your meal or event. Feel free to get creative and have fun experimenting with different combinations!

My recommendations and tips

Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh and high-quality ingredients. Freshly grated carrots will provide the best flavor and moisture for the cake.
Spice Balance: Adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg to your taste. If you enjoy a stronger spice flavor, you can add a bit more, but be cautious not to overpower the other flavors.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Take your time while making the cream cheese frosting. Make sure the cream cheese and butter are properly softened for a smooth and creamy texture. Gradually add the powdered sugar to avoid lumps.
Cooling Time: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting or sliding off due to residual heat.
Frosting Techniques: If you're new to frosting cakes, consider looking up some basic frosting techniques online. Applying a crumb coat before the final layer helps create a clean and professional finish.
Decorations: Get creative with decorations! You can use grated carrots, chopped nuts, or even edible flowers to enhance the visual appeal of the cake.
Serving Portions: While it's tempting to have a generous slice, carrot cake can be quite filling due to its moistness and richness. Consider serving slightly smaller slices for a satisfying treat without feeling overly stuffed.
Storing: Store the cake in the refrigerator due to the cream cheese frosting. It's a good idea to cover the cake to prevent it from absorbing any other flavors in the fridge.
Bringing to Room Temperature: If you refrigerate the cake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps restore the cake's flavors and textures.
Enjoy the Process: Baking is an enjoyable and creative activity. Don't hesitate to make this recipe your own by adding personal touches, whether it's adjusting the spices, experimenting with different toppings, or customizing the decoration.

Potential ingredients substitutes

All-Purpose Flour: Whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend can be used as substitutes for all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that using different types of flour may alter the texture and flavor of the cake.
Granulated Sugar: Brown sugar or coconut sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar. Brown sugar will add a slightly different flavor profile to the cake.
Vegetable Oil: You can substitute vegetable oil with melted butter, melted coconut oil, or applesauce for a lower-fat option. Keep in mind that these substitutes might slightly change the flavor and texture of the cake.
Eggs: For each egg, you can use alternatives like unsweetened applesauce, mashed bananas, yogurt, or a commercial egg replacer. These substitutes may affect the final texture and moisture of the cake.
Vanilla Extract: If you're out of vanilla extract, you can use almond extract or another flavored extract that complements the other flavors in the cake.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: If you don't have one of these leavening agents, you can increase the quantity of the other by 1/2 teaspoon to maintain the balance. Keep in mind that this may slightly affect the rise and texture of the cake.
Cream Cheese: For the cream cheese frosting, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you need to avoid dairy. Coconut cream can also be used to make a non-traditional frosting.
Chopped Nuts (optional): If you have nut allergies or simply don't want to include nuts, you can omit them entirely or replace them with chopped dried fruit or seeds for added texture.

Final Remark

In conclusion, Lloyd's Carrot Cake recipe brings together the timeless charm of a classic dessert with its moist layers, comforting spices, and delectable cream cheese frosting. Whether shared at gatherings or enjoyed in quiet moments, this recipe captures the essence of homemade goodness. As you embark on your culinary journey, remember that the warmth of cinnamon, the crunch of nuts, and the tang of cream cheese frosting all harmonize to create a truly memorable treat. So, gather your ingredients, don your apron, and let the sweet aroma of carrot cake fill your kitchen. With each slice, you're not just enjoying a cake; you're savoring a piece of tradition, love, and the joy that baking brings. Happy baking and indulging!