Carrot cake is a timeless classic, loved for its moist texture and warm, spiced flavor. Inspired by Mary Berry carrot cake recipe, this version is simple to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special celebration or just craving a homemade treat, this cake is sure to impress with its rich taste and creamy frosting.
Baking this carrot cake recipe reminds me of cozy afternoons in the kitchen, watching the cake rise as the sweet aroma fills the air. With a perfect balance of carrots, cinnamon, and a smooth cream cheese topping, every bite is pure comfort. If you’re looking for a fail-proof carrot cake recipe UK style, this one is just what you need!
You can also try Croffle Recipe.
BEST Mary Berry Carrot Cake Recipe – Easy & Delicious Bake
Mary Berry Carrot Cake Recipe
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 225g (8oz) self-raising flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 200g (7oz) soft light brown sugar
- 100g (3.5oz) walnuts, chopped (optional)
- 100g (3.5oz) raisins or sultanas (optional)
- 3 large eggs
- 150ml (5fl oz) sunflower oil
- 200g (7oz) grated carrots
For the cream cheese frosting:
- 200g (7oz) full-fat cream cheese
- 50g (2oz) unsalted butter, softened
- 250g (9oz) icing sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F / Gas Mark 4. Grease and line a 20cm (8-inch) round cake tin with baking paper.
- In a large bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg together. Stir in the brown sugar, chopped walnuts, and raisins.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs, sunflower oil, and grated carrots until well combined.
- Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until you get a smooth, thick batter.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Frosting
- In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Gradually add the icing sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and lump-free.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Sprinkle with extra chopped walnuts for decoration (optional).
- Slice and enjoy your homemade carrot cake recipe with a cup of tea!
Tips for the Best Carrot Cake
✅ Use freshly grated carrots for extra moisture and flavor.
✅ Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake soft and fluffy.
✅ Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
This carrot cake recipe UK style is perfect for birthdays, teatime, or a weekend treat. Enjoy a slice of this Mary Berry carrot cake recipe, packed with warm spices and creamy frosting! 🍰
Ingredients
For the cake:
Nutrition Facts
Servings 10
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 6227kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 342g527%
- Total Carbohydrate 742g248%
- Protein 76g152%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Recipe Tips, Allergies, and Dietary Information
✅ Tips for the Best Carrot Cake
- Use Fresh Carrots – Always grate fresh carrots instead of using pre-packaged ones for extra moisture and sweetness.
- Avoid Overmixing – Stir the batter until just combined to keep the cake soft and fluffy. Overmixing can make it dense.
- Room Temperature Ingredients – Bring eggs, cream cheese, and butter to room temperature before using for a smoother batter and frosting.
- Customizable Add-ins – Walnuts, pecans, or raisins can add texture and flavor, but feel free to skip them if preferred.
- Check for Doneness – Insert a skewer in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
- Cool Before Frosting – Ensure the cake is fully cooled before adding the frosting to prevent it from melting.
- Make It Ahead – This cake stays fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container or can be refrigerated for longer.
⚠️ Allergies & Dietary Information
🟠 Allergens in This Recipe:
- Eggs – Used in the cake batter. Can be replaced with flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
- Dairy (Butter & Cream Cheese) – Present in the frosting. Substitute with dairy-free alternatives for a lactose-free version.
- Nuts (Walnuts, optional) – Can be omitted if you have a nut allergy.
- Gluten (Self-Raising Flour) – Not suitable for gluten-free diets. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead.
🌱 Dietary Considerations:
- Vegetarian-Friendly – This recipe is naturally vegetarian.
- Vegan Adaptation – Swap eggs for flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) and use dairy-free cream cheese & butter.
- Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free self-raising flour or a blend of almond and oat flour with added baking powder.
- Lower Sugar Option – Reduce sugar by half or use coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can adapt the recipe for a gluten-free diet by substituting the self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum to maintain the cake's structure.
If you have a nut allergy or prefer a nut-free version, you can omit the walnuts without compromising the cake's texture or flavor. Alternatively, you can replace them with dried fruits like raisins or sultanas.
To keep the carrot cake moist and fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for up to 3 days. Before serving, you can bring it to room temperature or enjoy it chilled.
Yes, you can freeze the carrot cake. It's best to freeze the cake layers without the frosting. Wrap each layer tightly in cling film and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw the layers at room temperature before adding the frosting.
To make the cake dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese and butter in the frosting with dairy-free alternatives. Ensure that these substitutes are suitable for baking to achieve the desired frosting consistency.
Absolutely! While Mary Berry's recipe includes mixed spice and ginger, you can experiment by adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or even crushed pineapple for added moisture and flavor. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences.