Description
This Easter-inspired carrot cheesecake is a delightful fusion of spiced carrot cake and creamy cheesecake, creating a rich and indulgent dessert. With layers of moist cake, velvety cheesecake, and a luscious frosting, it’s the perfect make-ahead treat for your holiday table.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Carrot Cake Batter:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
For the Frosting:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
- Stir in sour cream and vanilla. Set aside.
- Make the Carrot Cake Batter:
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat brown sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs.
- Fold in shredded carrots, crushed pineapple, and nuts.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour half of the carrot cake batter into the prepared pan.
- Carefully spread the cheesecake mixture over the carrot cake layer.
- Top with the remaining carrot cake batter.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the Frosting:
- Beat butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and heavy cream until smooth.
- Spread over the chilled cheesecake and garnish with nuts or shredded carrots.
- Serve and Enjoy!
Notes
- Nut-Free Option: Omit nuts for an allergy-friendly version.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based cream cheese and milk alternatives.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute flour with a gluten-free baking mix.
- For added warmth, mix in cloves or cardamom.
- For extra texture, add golden raisins.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- chill time: 4 hours
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: carrot cheesecake, Easter dessert, layered cheesecake, spiced carrot cake, cream cheese frosting