Save to Pinterest A whimsical, moist carrot cake shaped and decorated to resemble a charming spring bunny, perfect for festive gatherings and celebrations.
This cake has been a delightful centerpiece for many spring celebrations in my family and always brings smiles and compliments.
Ingredients
- For the Carrot Cake: 2 1/2 cups (320 g) all-purpose flour, 2 tsp baking powder, 1 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/4 tsp ground ginger, 1 cup (220 g) granulated sugar, 1/2 cup (100 g) light brown sugar packed, 4 large eggs, 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable oil, 1/2 cup (120 ml) unsweetened applesauce, 2 tsp pure vanilla extract, 3 cups (300 g) grated carrots, 1 cup (120 g) chopped walnuts or pecans optional, 1/2 cup (80 g) raisins optional
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese softened, 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter softened, 3 1/2 cups (440 g) powdered sugar sifted, 2 tsp pure vanilla extract, Pinch of salt
- For Decoration: 1 cup (100 g) shredded coconut for fur, Pink food coloring for ears and nose, Brown or black candies/chocolate chips for eyes, Marshmallows for tail and cheeks, Edible flowers pastel candies or sprinkles optional
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pans with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Step 3:
- In another bowl, beat eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add oil, applesauce, and vanilla, mixing well.
- Step 4:
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Stir in carrots and if using, nuts and raisins.
- Step 5:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 35 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 6:
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Step 7:
- For the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, beating until fluffy.
- Step 8:
- To assemble the bunny: Place one round cake as the bunnys face. Cut two symmetrical ovals from the second cake for ears use the remaining piece to form the bunnys bowtie or feet.
- Step 9:
- Arrange on a large platter. Frost generously with cream cheese frosting.
- Step 10:
- Sprinkle shredded coconut over the frosted cake to resemble fur.
- Step 11:
- Tint a small amount of coconut pink for the ear centers and nose apply accordingly.
- Step 12:
- Use candies or chocolate chips for eyes marshmallows for cheeks and tail.
- Step 13:
- Decorate with edible flowers pastel candies or sprinkles as desired.
- Step 14:
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
Save to Pinterest My family always gathers eagerly to decorate and share this cake, making sweet memories each spring.
Required Tools
2 x 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pans, Mixing bowls, Electric mixer, Spatula, Serrated knife, Offset spatula for frosting, Parchment paper, Large serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains: Eggs, dairy (cream cheese, butter), wheat (gluten), and optionally tree nuts if added. Check all ingredient labels for potential allergens especially cream cheese and candies.
Nutritional Information
Calories 490, Total Fat 27 g, Carbohydrates 60 g, Protein 6 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This delightful carrot cake not only tastes delicious but also brings a festive touch to any spring occasion.
Questions & Answers
- → How do I ensure the cake stays moist?
Use vegetable oil and applesauce in the batter to retain moisture. Be careful not to overbake; test with a toothpick until it comes out clean.
- → Can I substitute nuts in the cake?
Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans add texture but can be omitted for a nut-free version without affecting flavor significantly.
- → What is the best way to shape the bunny ears?
Cut two symmetrical ovals from the second cake layer and arrange them upright on the main round cake to form ears for the bunny shape.
- → How do I make the frosting smooth and fluffy?
Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until light and fluffy.
- → What ingredients create the bunny's fur effect?
Shredded coconut is sprinkled generously over the frosting to resemble soft fur; some coconut is tinted pink for features like ears and nose.