Blue Ribbon Carrot Cake

If you’re looking to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to a delightful dessert, then look no further than our award-winning Blue Ribbon Carrot Cake recipe. This moist and flavorful cake is a perfect blend of sweetness, spice, and everything nice. The combination of fresh carrots, warm spices, and a decadent cream cheese frosting is sure to make this carrot cake a star at any gathering. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let’s get baking!

**Blue Ribbon Carrot Cake**

**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
– Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan and set it aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Add in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. While the cake is baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
9. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
10. Once the cake is baked and cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top of the cake. You can garnish with additional chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
11. Slice and serve this delectable Blue Ribbon Carrot Cake to your guests, family, or simply indulge in a well-deserved slice!

This Blue Ribbon Carrot Cake is a true crowd-pleaser that captures the essence of comfort and celebration in every bite. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy weekend treat, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the rich flavors, moist texture, and undeniable charm of this classic dessert. Bon appétit!