If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that embodies warmth and comfort, you need to try this Spiced Orange Ginger Carrot Cake. Bursting with citrus and spice flavors, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and utterly delicious, it’s sure to win over your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Spiced Orange Ginger Carrot Cake
- Bold flavors from the combination of orange and ginger.
- Quick to prepare and bake, making it a great choice for busy days.
- Highly adaptable, allowing for personal touches like nuts or dried fruit.
- Perfectly moist with a tender crumb that stays fresh for days.
- Family-friendly and kid-approved, suitable for all ages.
Ingredients Needed
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Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
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Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
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Vegetables:
- 2 cups grated carrots
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Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup raisins
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch cake pan.
2. Mix dry ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. Combine wet ingredients
In another large bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.
4. Add eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Incorporate carrots and juice
Stir in the grated carrots, orange juice, and orange zest.
6. Combine mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Fold in optional ingredients
If you choose, fold in the walnuts and raisins.
8. Bake the cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Prepare the glaze
While the cake cools, prepare the glaze by mixing softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth, then add orange juice to thin it out.
10. Glaze the cake
Once the cake is cool, pour the glaze on top and spread evenly.
11. Serve and enjoy
Slice up your delicious Spiced Orange Ginger Carrot Cake and serve it up!
Serving Suggestions Spiced Orange Ginger Carrot Cake
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for afternoon delight.
- Top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish.
- Enjoy alongside fresh fruit for a colorful dessert plate.
Tips for Success Spiced Orange Ginger Carrot Cake
- Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days.
Variations
Here are a few easy ways to change it up:
- Replace the vegetable oil with applesauce for a healthier alternative.
- Add a teaspoon of ground nutmeg for an additional layer of spice.
- For a tropical twist, substitute orange juice with pineapple juice.
- Make it gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Follow us on Pinterest for more cozy ideas.
What makes this carrot cake different from others?
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
How should I store leftover cake?
Can I freeze this cake?

Spiced Orange Ginger Carrot Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch cake pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
- In another large bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the grated carrots, orange juice, and orange zest.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- If you choose, fold in the walnuts and raisins.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake cools, prepare the glaze by mixing softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth, then add orange juice to thin it out.
- Once the cake is cool, pour the glaze on top and spread evenly.
- Slice up your delicious Spiced Orange Ginger Carrot Cake and serve it up!