We’ve always been fans of the iconic Commissary Carrot Cake Recipe, a moist and spiced delight that originated in the vibrant kitchens of Los Angeles’ famed Commissary restaurant. This classic treat combines grated carrots with warm spices and creamy frosting for a perfect balance of flavors that keeps us coming back for more.
It’s our joy to share this straightforward version with you so you can whip up a slice of nostalgia at home. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a cozy night in we’ll make sure it’s simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
In our exploration of the Commissary Carrot Cake recipe, we start with the essential ingredients that create its signature moist texture and spiced warmth. We’ve organized them in the order they’re typically used, with prep notes for clarity.
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Sifted to ensure even mixing and a light crumb.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Fresh for optimal rise and fluffiness.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda: Combined with the baking powder to help the cake achieve its tender structure.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: A key spice that infuses the warm, aromatic flavor central to this classic.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds subtle depth and a hint of earthiness to complement the carrots.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors without overpowering.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Provides the perfect sweetness to balance the vegetables and spices.
- 1 cup vegetable oil: Use neutral oil for moisture that keeps the cake tender for days.
- 4 large eggs: At room temperature for better incorporation and a richer batter.
- 2 cups grated carrots: Freshly grated (about 4 medium carrots) to release natural juices and add vibrant texture.
- 1 cup crushed pineapple: Drained well to introduce subtle tropical moisture without making the batter too wet.
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans: Toasted lightly for added crunch and nutty flavor that elevates each bite.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese: Softened to room temperature for a smooth, creamy base.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Also softened to ensure easy blending and a velvety finish.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Sifted to avoid lumps and achieve the ideal sweet tang.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure extract for authentic flavor that ties the frosting to the cake’s spices.
These ingredients, when combined, deliver the irresistible balance of earthy sweetness and spice that makes our Commissary Carrot Cake a timeless favorite.
Required Equipment
To bring our Commissary Carrot Cake Recipe together seamlessly after selecting the perfect ingredients, we rely on a few essential tools that ensure precise preparation and baking. These items help us achieve that signature moist texture and spiced flavor without any hassle.
We categorize the required equipment into preparation, mixing, and baking tools for clarity:
- Mixing Bowls: Large and medium-sized bowls for combining dry and wet ingredients; opt for stainless steel or glass for easy mixing and cleaning.
- Grater: A box grater or food processor attachment for finely grating fresh carrots, which is key to incorporating that earthy sweetness into our batter.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate sets for measuring flour, sugar, and spices; we recommend a set with both dry and liquid options to maintain the recipe’s balance.
- Electric Mixer or Whisk: A handheld or stand mixer for creaming butter and beating frosting; if using a whisk, ensure it’s sturdy for achieving smooth, creamy results.
- Baking Pans: Two 9-inch round cake pans for the classic layered look; grease them well to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Spatula: A rubber or silicone spatula for folding ingredients and scraping bowls; it’s indispensable for gentle mixing to keep our cake tender.
- Cooling Rack: A wire rack to cool the cakes evenly after baking, allowing us to avoid sogginess and prepare for frosting application.
- Oven Thermometer: For verifying oven temperature accuracy, as baking at the precise heat ensures our cake rises perfectly and retains its moistness.
By having these tools on hand, we streamline the process from grating carrots to frosting the final layers, making our homemade version of this timeless favorite both efficient and enjoyable.
Instructions
With our fresh ingredients and essential tools in hand, we’re excited to guide you through crafting the perfect Commissary Carrot Cake Recipe step by step. This process ensures a moist, spiced cake that’s easy to replicate at home.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we begin mixing, let’s prepare our ingredients to enhance their flavors and textures for the Commissary Carrot Cake Recipe. Start by grating 2 cups of fresh carrots using a box grater for a fine texture that blends seamlessly into the batter. Toast 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until fragrant to add a nutty crunch that complements the cake’s sweetness. Drain and measure 1/2 cup of crushed pineapple to remove excess juice, preventing the batter from becoming too wet. Sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt into a bowl for even distribution. Measure out wet ingredients like 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 cup of vegetable oil, 4 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to have them ready.
Make the Batter
Now we make the batter, the heart of our Commissary Carrot Cake Recipe, by combining ingredients to achieve a rich, moist consistency. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 cup of vegetable oil, and 4 large eggs until the mixture is smooth and emulsified for optimal texture. Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients—2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt—stirring with a spatula until just combined to avoid overmixing. Fold in the grated carrots, toasted nuts, and drained crushed pineapple using gentle strokes to maintain the batter’s airy quality. The result is a thick, aromatic batter with an earthy sweetness that promises a delectable spiced flavor in every bite.
Bake the Cake
It’s time to bake the cake, transforming our batter into a golden, tender masterpiece for the Commissary Carrot Cake Recipe. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two 9-inch round baking pans with butter or non-stick spray, then line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal. Divide the batter evenly between the pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, allowing the cake to develop a moist crumb and warm spice aroma that fills your kitchen. Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before turning out the cakes.
Prepare the Frosting
Next, we prepare the frosting, a creamy counterpart that elevates our Commissary Carrot Cake Recipe with its tangy sweetness. In a medium bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy and lump-free. Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, beating until the frosting is smooth and spreadable for that signature tangy contrast. This frosting delivers a velvety texture that perfectly balances the cake’s spices, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Assemble and Frost the Cake
Finally, we assemble and frost the cake, bringing together layers for a stunning presentation in our Commissary Carrot Cake Recipe. Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous 1/2 cup of frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula. Stack the second layer on top and apply the remaining frosting to cover the sides and top, smoothing for a polished finish. For added flair, press some toasted nuts around the edges to enhance the visual appeal and texture. The assembled cake boasts a moist interior with a creamy exterior, offering a delightful mix of spiced warmth and cool frosting in every slice.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To keep our Commissary Carrot Cake fresh and flavorful, we recommend thoughtful make-ahead strategies and proper storage techniques. These methods help preserve the cake’s moist texture and spiced warmth, ensuring every slice delivers that signature balance of earthy sweetness and creamy frosting.
Make-Ahead Strategies
We love preparing components of our Commissary Carrot Cake in advance to streamline baking day without compromising quality. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Grate the carrots and prep dry ingredients: Up to 24 hours ahead, grate 2 cups of fresh carrots and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps their crunch intact while enhancing the cake’s moisture. Sift 2 cups of flour with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, then seal in a bag at room temperature.
- Toast nuts and prepare wet ingredients: Toast 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, then cool and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Mix wet ingredients such as eggs, oil, and crushed pineapple the night before, and refrigerate to maintain freshness—this prevents oxidation and keeps flavors vibrant.
- Assemble and bake the cake: Make the full batter up to 2 days in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready, or fully bake the unfrosted cake layers and wrap them in plastic wrap for up to 2 days in the fridge. This approach lets the spices infuse deeply, amplifying the cake’s warm, aromatic profile.
Proper Storage Methods
Once baked, storing our Commissary Carrot Cake correctly maintains its tender crumb and prevents drying. We outline key methods below, focusing on both short-term and long-term options.
- Unfrosted cake storage: Cool the cake completely on a wire rack, then wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This locks in the cake’s inherent moisture and spiced essence.
- Frosted cake storage: After applying the creamy frosting, cover the cake loosely with a cake dome or inverted bowl and refrigerate. The cool environment enhances the contrast between the cake’s soft interior and the frosting’s silky coolness.
For precise guidance on durations, refer to the table below, which outlines recommended storage times based on our testing:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator (Unfrosted) | Up to 5 days | Store in an airtight container to retain moisture; bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before frosting for optimal texture. |
| Refrigerator (Frosted) | Up to 3 days | Use within this window to preserve the frosting’s creamy consistency and the cake’s spiced flavor—avoid direct contact with wrap. |
| Freezer (Unfrosted) | Up to 3 months | Wrap layers individually and place in freezer-safe bags; thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain the cake’s signature moistness. |
| Freezer (Frosted) | Up to 1 month | Freeze on a tray first to set the frosting, then wrap; thaw in the refrigerator to prevent sogginess and keep flavors intact. |
By following these tips, we ensure our Commissary Carrot Cake remains a delightful, hassle-free treat ready for any occasion.
Conclusion
We’ve shared our take on the classic Commissary Carrot Cake Recipe to bring its warm, spiced charm right to your kitchen. It’s a timeless treat that never fails to impress, blending simplicity with irresistible flavors.
Baking it lets us connect over shared moments, and we’re confident you’ll make it a staple in your home. Give it a try and savor every moist, delicious bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Commissary Carrot Cake Recipe?
The Commissary Carrot Cake Recipe is a classic from the famous Los Angeles restaurant, featuring a moist, spiced cake made with grated carrots, warm spices, and creamy frosting. It’s loved for its perfect balance of earthy sweetness and flavor, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy evenings. This version is straightforward and easy to recreate at home.
What are the key ingredients for the Commissary Carrot Cake?
The essential ingredients include freshly grated carrots, crushed pineapple, toasted nuts, flour, sugar, eggs, oil, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Using quality, fresh components ensures the cake’s moist texture and rich flavor. These elements combine to create a delightful mix of sweetness and spice.
What equipment is required to make the Commissary Carrot Cake?
You’ll need basic tools like mixing bowls, a grater for carrots, measuring cups and spoons, an electric mixer or whisk, baking pans, a spatula, a cooling rack, and an oven thermometer. These items help with preparation, mixing, and baking, ensuring precise results and a smooth process from start to finish.
How do you prepare the Commissary Carrot Cake?
Start by grating carrots and toasting nuts, then sift dry ingredients. Mix wet and dry components to form a batter, pour into pans, and bake at the recommended temperature until golden. Prepare a creamy frosting separately, then assemble and frost the cooled cake layers for a moist, flavorful result.
Can I make the Commissary Carrot Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare components like grated carrots and toasted nuts in advance to save time. Assemble the cake fully and store it unfrosted in the fridge for up to two days, or frost it and refrigerate for shorter periods. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh for occasions without last-minute rush.
How should I store the Commissary Carrot Cake?
For unfrosted cake, wrap tightly in plastic and refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for months. Frosted cake should be covered and chilled, lasting 3-5 days in the fridge. Always bring to room temperature before serving to maintain its moist texture and flavorful spices.