Carrot Cake Cheesecake: The Best Moist & Easy Holiday Dessert

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A Fusion of Two Classics

Imagine combining the spiced warmth of a traditional carrot cake with the creamy, tangy richness of a New York-style cheesecake. This recipe delivers exactly that. It is a layered carrot cake and cheesecake dessert that satisfies every craving. The bottom layer consists of a dense, moist carrot cake with cheesecake filling poured right on top before baking. The result is a stunning contrast of textures and flavors, featuring a cinnamon-nutmeg swirl cheesecake profile that feels comforting yet sophisticated. It creates a memorable experience that far surpasses a standard cake mix.

This recipe is the ultimate Easter holiday showstopper dessert, though it is perfect for any time of year. Because it requires chilling, it naturally functions as a make-ahead celebration cake, relieving stress on the day of your party. While it looks impressive, the process is straightforward. Whether you are looking for a spring-themed baked dessert or simply want to elevate your weekend baking, this recipe delivers high-end bakery results right in your home kitchen.

Key Recipe Information

• Difficulty: Medium
• Preparation time: 30 minutes
• Cooking time: 65 minutes
• Resting time: 4 hours (chilling)
• Servings: 12 slices
• Estimated cost: Medium

Ingredients for Carrot Cake Cheesecake

For the Carrot Cake Base

• 150g All-purpose flour
• 100g Granulated sugar
• 50g Brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp Baking powder
• 1/2 tsp Baking soda
• 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp Ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 120ml Vegetable oil
• 2 Large eggs, room temperature
• 150g Grated carrots (freshly grated is best)
• 50g Chopped pecans or walnuts (essential for a walnut-pecan crust carrot cheesecake texture)

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 450g Cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 100g Granulated sugar
• 2 Large eggs, room temperature
• 60ml Sour cream
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp All-purpose flour

For the Sour Cream Topping (Optional)

• 240ml Sour cream
• 30g Powdered sugar

Equipment Required

• 9-inch Springform pan (essential for release)
• Electric Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer
• Large and medium mixing bowls
• Box grater (for carrots)
• Spatula
• Cooling rack

Recipe Preparation: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan generously with cooking spray or butter. If you want extra security against leaks, wrap the bottom of the pan in aluminum foil.
2. Mix Dry Cake Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This spice blend creates the base for our spiced cream cheese swirl cake effect later.
3. Combine Wet Cake Ingredients: Add the vegetable oil and eggs to the dry mixture. Mix until just combined (do not overmix). Fold in the grated carrots and chopped nuts. This creates your walnut-pecan crust carrot cheesecake base.
4. Pour Cake Batter: Spread about 2/3 of the carrot cake batter into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Smooth it out to create an even base layer. Reserve the remaining batter.
5. Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes). Add the flour, vanilla, and sour cream. Beat again until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated. Do not overbeat after adding eggs to prevent cracks.
6. Layer the Dessert: Pour the cheesecake batter over the carrot cake base in the pan. Now, take the remaining carrot cake batter and drop spoonfuls over the top of the cheesecake layer. Use a knife to gently swirl the batters together for a marbled effect.
7. Bake: Place the pan in the oven. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes. The center should still be slightly jiggly like Jell-O when you gently shake the pan. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil after 45 minutes.
8. Cooling Process: Turn off the oven and prop the door open slightly. Let the cake cool inside for 1 hour. This slow cooling prevents sinking. Afterward, remove from the oven and run a knife around the edge to loosen it from the pan.
9. Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This is vital for the texture to set properly.
10. Serve: Once chilled, remove the ring of the springform pan. Slice and serve.

Chef’s Tips, Tricks, and Variations

• Temperature Matters: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. Cold ingredients lead to lumpy cheesecake batter.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: You can easily make a gluten-free carrot cake cheesecake by substituting the all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend in both the cake and cheesecake layers.
• The No-Bake Option: If you are short on time or oven space, consider making no-bake carrot cake cheesecake cups. Simply bake the carrot cake layer on a sheet pan, crumble it into cups, and top with a no-bake cheesecake filling (cream cheese mixed with whipped cream and sugar).
• Serving Suggestions: This rich dessert pairs beautifully with coffee. If you are serving this as part of a holiday feast, it follows a main course like Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast perfectly. For appetizers before the meal, try Christmas Stuffed Mushrooms or Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. You can also freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 1 month.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 32g
• Fiber: 2g

More Favorites from HanaEats

If you enjoyed this recipe, check out these other delicious options for your table:

• Light Desserts: For something lighter, try our No-Bake Greek Yogurt Jello Cheesecake.
• Fun Holiday Treats: Kids love this Chocolate Pinecone Hack Dessert.
• Seasonal Drinks: Sip on some Sweet Potato Vegan Eggnog while you bake.
• Savory Sides: Pair your dinner with Crack Green Beans Recipe or use leftovers for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls.
• Lunch Ideas: Try the Grilled Steak Bowl with Creamy Sauce for a hearty meal.

Conclusion

This Carrot Cake Cheesecake is the best of both worlds, offering the spice of a classic cake with the smooth indulgence of cheesecake. It is a reliable make-ahead celebration cake that guests will rave about. The unique combination of textures makes every bite interesting.

For more culinary history on the origins of carrot cake, you can visit Wikipedia. Don’t forget to follow our latest inspirations on Pinterest.

Please leave a comment below if you’ve tried the recipe or if you have any questions! We love seeing your creations.

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