Save Pin A whimsical, moist carrot cake shaped and decorated to resemble a charming spring bunny, perfect for festive gatherings and celebrations.
This carrot cake recipe has been a family favorite every spring, bringing joy and smiles to every gathering with its unique bunny shape and delicious taste.
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 Pin Sharing this cake has created wonderful family moments full of laughter and delight at every spring celebration.
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 Pin This carrot cake combines fun festive presentation with classic flavors that everyone will enjoy.
Recipe FAQs
- → What spices enhance the carrot cake flavor?
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger are combined to create a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness of the carrots.
- → Can I add nuts or raisins to the cake?
Yes, chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins can be folded into the batter for added texture and flavor, but these are optional.
- → How is the bunny decoration achieved?
The cake layers are shaped into bunny ears and face, then frosted with cream cheese frosting. Shredded coconut is used for fur, with colored coconut, candies, and marshmallows adding facial features and details.
- → What is the best way to bake the cake evenly?
Use two 9-inch round pans lined with parchment paper, bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes, and test doneness with a toothpick.
- → Can this cake be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator for convenience.
- → Are there alternatives for a nut-free or gluten-free version?
For nut-free, omit the nuts. For gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend as desired.