If you have a soft spot for moist, flavorful desserts, you are in for a treat with this Carrot Cake Poke Cake Recipe. Combining the warmth of cinnamon-spiced carrot cake with the luscious cream cheese frosting infused right into the cake through gentle poking, this dessert delivers a delightful texture and richness that will make you want more. It’s an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser perfect for everything from family gatherings to casual get-togethers, capturing the spirit of classic carrot cake in a playful, unexpected way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients come together in this recipe to create a cake that feels homemade and indulgent with every bite. Each element plays a vital role — from the fragrant cinnamon to the fresh carrots adding moisture and sweetness, and the cream cheese frosting giving that beloved tangy finish.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the cake structure and crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides the perfect sweetness to balance the spices and carrots.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully for a light, tender texture.
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds cozy warmth and depth of flavor.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances the other flavors and balances sweetness.
- ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and gives it a tender crumb.
- 3 large eggs (room temperature): Binds ingredients and adds richness.
- 1 ½ cups finely grated carrots: The star that brings natural sweetness, moisture, and beautiful color.
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional): For added crunch and nuttiness, both in the batter or as a topping.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): Creates the luscious, tangy frosting that completes the cake.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the cream cheese frosting.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor of the frosting.
How to Make Carrot Cake Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a rectangular baking dish well so your cake won’t stick when it’s time to dig in. This sets you up for a perfectly baked, easy-to-remove carrot cake base.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together your flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This ensures that everything is evenly distributed so your cake will be perfectly spiced and rise beautifully.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, mix the vegetable oil, eggs, and finely grated carrots until well blended. The carrots bring natural moisture that will keep this cake deliciously tender.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Carefully pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently just until everything is combined, making sure not to overmix, which can make the cake tough. If you love walnuts, fold them in here for an extra layer of texture.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour your batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This step is crucial for a moist and fluffy carrot cake base.
Step 6: Frost and Finish
After the cake has completely cooled, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread it generously over the cake, and if you like, sprinkle chopped walnuts on top to add a delightful crunch.
How to Serve Carrot Cake Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
The simple sprinkle of chopped walnuts on cream cheese frosting adds a satisfying crunch. For a little extra flair, try grating some fresh carrot curls or a dash of ground cinnamon on top. These small touches make serving this poke cake feel special.
Side Dishes
Serve your Carrot Cake Poke Cake Recipe with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Fresh fruit like sliced oranges or berries also pairs beautifully, balancing the cake’s richness with refreshing notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your poke cake into a showstopper by serving in individual glass dishes or mason jars layered with extra frosting or chopped nuts. You can also top the slices with edible flowers for a stunning, photo-worthy dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once frosted, cover your carrot cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, making it perfect for prepping ahead or enjoying over several days.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake before frosting by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and foil. It holds up beautifully up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then frost just before serving to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh and creamy.
Reheating
For a warm slice, reheat a piece gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, which can dry out the cake or melt the frosting too much. Enjoy it just like cozy homemade comfort food.
FAQs
Can I make the Carrot Cake Poke Cake Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for best results, and your carrot cake will still be deliciously moist and tender.
Is it necessary to use walnuts in this carrot cake?
Walnuts are optional but highly recommended for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet, spiced cake. You can omit them or try pecans if preferred.
How do I ensure my cake is moist and not dry?
Use fresh grated carrots and don’t overmix the batter. Also, be sure to bake it just until a toothpick comes out clean to avoid overbaking. The vegetable oil also helps keep the cake moist.
Can I prepare the cream cheese frosting in advance?
Yes! Make the frosting a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature and give it a quick whip before spreading to get back its creamy texture.
What is the “poke” part of the Carrot Cake Poke Cake Recipe?
Traditionally, poke cakes involve poking holes in the cake after baking and pouring a liquid or frosting into the holes. This adaptation blends the cream cheese frosting on top and throughout for a moist, flavorful experience inspired by that concept.
Final Thoughts
This Carrot Cake Poke Cake Recipe brings cozy, familiar flavors into a simple yet vibrant dessert that everyone will love. Its moist texture, warm spices, and creamy frosting make it feel like a special occasion treat any time you want a slice of happiness. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how easily it becomes a favorite in your recipe box!
Print
Carrot Cake Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Carrot Cake Poke Cake combines a moist, spiced carrot cake base with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. The poke cake technique allows the frosting to seep into the cake, creating an extra moist and flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 ½ cups finely grated carrots
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a rectangular baking dish to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the vegetable oil, room temperature eggs, and finely grated carrots until the mixture is evenly blended.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Frost: Allow the cake to cool completely. Meanwhile, prepare the frosting by mixing the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Frost the cake with this mixture, and optionally sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for better batter mixing and cake texture.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense cake.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting.
- Walnuts are optional; toasted walnuts can add a richer flavor.
- This cake can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, covered to maintain freshness.
