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### Instructions:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Carrot Cake
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
3. **Mix Wet Ingredients**: In another large bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
4. **Combine Wet and Dry**: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. **Add Carrots and Nuts**: Fold in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts or pecans (if using). The batter will be thick.
6. **Bake the Cake**: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. **Cool the Cakes**: Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, remove them from the pans and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
#### Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
1. **Mix the Cream Cheese**: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. **Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla**: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until well combined.
3. **Add Heavy Cream**: Slowly add the heavy cream or milk, and mix until the filling reaches a smooth and spreadable consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more cream; if it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.
4. **Chill the Filling**: Place the cream cheese filling in the refrigerator to firm up slightly before using it in the cake.
#### Step 3: Assemble the Cake
1. **Layer the Cake**: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer of the carrot cake on a cake plate or serving platter.
2. **Fill the Cake**: Spread an even layer of the cream cheese filling over the top of the first cake layer.
3. **Top with the Second Layer**: Place the second cake layer on top, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
4. **Chill**: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 30 minutes to help the cream cheese filling set properly.
#### Step 4: Prepare the Frosting (Optional)
1. **Mix the Frosting**: In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
2. **Frost the Cake**: Once the cake and filling have set, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it out with a spatula.
#### Step 5: Garnish and Serve
1. **Add Garnishes**: If desired, sprinkle chopped walnuts or shredded coconut on top of the cake for added texture and visual appeal. You can also dust the top with a little cinnamon for extra flavor.
2. **Serve**: Slice and serve the carrot cake chilled or at room temperature. It pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.
### Tips for the Perfect Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Filling:
– **Fresh Carrots**: For the best flavor and texture, grate fresh carrots yourself instead of using pre-grated carrots, as they tend to be drier.
– **Moisture**: If you find your carrot cake is a little too dry, you can add ½ cup of unsweetened applesauce to the batter to enhance moisture without altering the flavor.
– **Storage**: Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
– **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the cake layers and cream cheese filling ahead of time. Assemble the cake and frost it the day you plan to serve it.
### Conclusion:
**Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Filling** is the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just because. The moist, spiced carrot cake paired with the tangy cream cheese filling creates a mouthwatering balance of flavors that’s hard to resist. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, this recipe allows you to enjoy a homemade, decadent dessert that will impress friends and family alike. Give this recipe a try, and savor every bite of this delicious carrot cake with cream cheese filling!
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