Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, beat together sugar, oil, and eggs until well combined.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in grated carrots and chopped nuts (if using) until evenly distributed in the batter.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
9. In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
10. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined and creamy.
11. Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
12. Optionally, garnish with additional chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
13. Slice and serve your delicious homemade Carrot Cake! Enjoy!