Save A whimsical, moist carrot cake shaped and decorated to resemble a charming spring bunny, perfect for festive gatherings and celebrations.
This cake quickly became a favorite at our family holidays because of its cute presentation and delicious taste.
Ingredients
- For the Carrot Cake: 2 1/2 cups (320 g) all-purpose flour 2 tsp baking powder 1 1/2 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp salt 2 tsp ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg 1/4 tsp ground ginger 1 cup (220 g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100 g) light brown sugar, packed 4 large eggs 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable oil 1/2 cup (120 ml) unsweetened applesauce 2 tsp pure vanilla extract 3 cups (300 g) grated carrots 1 cup (120 g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) 1/2 cup (80 g) raisins (optional)
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened 3 1/2 cups (440 g) powdered sugar, sifted 2 tsp pure vanilla extract Pinch of salt
- For Decoration: 1 cup (100 g) shredded coconut (for fur) Pink food coloring (for ears and nose) Brown or black candies/chocolate chips (for eyes) Marshmallows (for tail and cheeks) Edible flowers, pastel candies, or sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pans with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Step 3:
- In another bowl, beat eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add oil, applesauce, and vanilla, mixing well.
- Step 4:
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Stir in carrots, and if using, nuts and raisins.
- Step 5:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 6:
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Step 7:
- For the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, beating until fluffy.
- Step 8:
- To assemble the bunny: Place one round cake as the bunny's face. Cut two symmetrical ovals from the second cake for ears; use the remaining piece to form the bunny's bowtie or feet.
- Step 9:
- Arrange on a large platter. Frost generously with cream cheese frosting.
- Step 10:
- Sprinkle shredded coconut over the frosted cake to resemble fur.
- Step 11:
- Tint a small amount of coconut pink for the ear centers and nose; apply accordingly.
- Step 12:
- Use candies or chocolate chips for eyes; marshmallows for cheeks and tail.
- Step 13:
- Decorate with edible flowers, pastel candies, or sprinkles as desired.
- Step 14:
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
Save This recipe always brings joy at family gatherings especially when kids see the bunny shape.
Notes
Use gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free adaptation. Serve with a glass of cold milk or hot tea. Cake can be made a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
Required Tools
2 x 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pans Mixing bowls Electric mixer Spatula Serrated knife Offset spatula (for frosting) Parchment paper Large serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains: Eggs, dairy (cream cheese, butter), wheat (gluten), and optionally tree nuts (if added). Check all ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially cream cheese and candies.
Save This delightful carrot cake bunny is perfect for spring celebrations and will surely impress your guests.
Kitchen Guide
- → What spices enhance the carrot cake's flavor?
The cake uses cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of ground ginger to create a warm and aromatic flavor profile.
- → Can nuts be omitted from the cake?
Yes, nuts such as walnuts or pecans are optional and can be left out for a nut-free version without affecting moisture.
- → How is the bunny shape created?
The cake layers are cut and assembled to form the bunny’s face and ears, then frosted and decorated with coconut, candy, and marshmallows for features.
- → What frosting is used for the cake?
A smooth, creamy frosting made from softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla complements the carrot cake's texture.
- → How can the cake be made gluten-free?
Substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend creates a suitable gluten-free alternative without compromising taste.