Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love carrot cake and cheesecake, why not have the best of both worlds? This homemade carrot cake cheesecake is a perfect blend of moist spiced carrot cake layers and rich, creamy cheesecake filling. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something indulgent, this layered carrot cake cheesecake is sure to impress.
Pure Comfort
This easy carrot cake cheesecake recipe is a decadent, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines two favorites into one. With warm spices, creamy textures, and a luscious frosting, every bite is pure joy.
Ingredients – What You Need
Cheesecake Mixture
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Carrot Cake Layer
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup canola oil
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup packed light-brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 cups finely grated carrots
Cream Cheese Topping
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 Tbsp butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup + 2 Tbsp sour cream
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Time to Cook
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 1 hour
Chill Time: 4+ hours
Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
Steps to Make It
1. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and flour until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream. Set aside.
2. Make the Carrot Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, mix canola oil, applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Stir in grated carrots, then fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
3. Assemble the Layers
- Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan.
- Pour half of the carrot cake batter into the pan.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly on top.
- Carefully add the remaining carrot cake batter over the cheesecake layer.
4. Bake the Cake
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for 60 minutes or until set in the center.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cake inside for 10 minutes before removing.
- Let it cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
5. Make the Cream Cheese Topping
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
6. Decorate and Serve
- Spread the cream cheese topping over the chilled cake.
- Sprinkle with chopped pecans for added crunch (optional).
Make It Perfect
- Don’t overmix the batter – this ensures a fluffy texture.
- Use a springform pan for easy removal.
- Let the cake chill overnight for the best texture and flavor.
Mix It Up
- Swap pecans for walnuts for a slightly different crunch.
- Add raisins or shredded coconut for extra texture.
- Use pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon and nutmeg for a fall twist.
Perfect Partners
This homemade carrot cake cheesecake pairs beautifully with:
- A warm cup of coffee or chai tea
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- A drizzle of caramel sauce
Busy Day Hero
This layered carrot cake cheesecake is perfect for special occasions but also great for meal prepping desserts ahead of time.
Work Ahead
Make this easy carrot cake cheesecake recipe a day in advance – it tastes even better the next day!
Save Some For Later
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Everyone’s Happy
This homemade carrot cake cheesecake is a hit at birthdays, holidays, or anytime you want a showstopping dessert!
Good For You Too
With carrots, applesauce, and less oil, this layered carrot cake cheesecake is a slightly lighter version of traditional carrot cake.
Easy Clean Up
Since this recipe only requires a few mixing bowls and one pan, cleanup is simple and stress-free.
Switch It Up
- Make it gluten-free by using almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a protein boost.
- Add pineapple for a tropical twist.
Simply Perfect
This best carrot cake cheesecake recipe is proof that two amazing desserts can come together to create a truly unforgettable treat.
FAQs
1. Can I use a regular cake pan instead of a springform pan?
A springform pan is recommended for easy removal, but a deep cake pan lined with parchment paper can work.
2. Can I make this recipe without applesauce?
Yes! You can replace applesauce with more oil or mashed banana for a similar texture.
3. How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing, and avoid overbaking.
4. Can I add pineapple to this carrot cake cheesecake?
Yes! Crushed pineapple (drained) adds natural sweetness and moisture.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour.
6. How long does carrot cake cheesecake last?
It stays fresh for 5 days in the refrigerator or 2 months in the freezer.
7. Can I use store-bought cream cheese frosting instead of homemade?
Absolutely! Store-bought frosting works in a pinch, but homemade is creamier and more flavorful.
Conclusion
This best carrot cake cheesecake recipe is the ultimate layered dessert, combining the warmth of spiced carrot cake with the richness of creamy cheesecake. Whether you’re a cheesecake lover or a carrot cake fan, this recipe delivers the best of both worlds. Try it today and wow your friends and family with a decadent, homemade carrot cake cheesecake
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