Ingredients
For the Carrot Cake Layer:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups finely grated carrots (about 2–3 medium carrots)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Instructions
-
Prepare the Carrot Cake Layer:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
- Fold in the grated carrots and nuts (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
-
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
- Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in the sour cream until smooth.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled carrot cake layer in the springform pan.
- Smooth the top with a spatula and tap the pan to remove air bubbles.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned. Turn off the oven and let it cool with the door ajar for 1 hour. Cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
-
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until smooth.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Add heavy cream or milk as needed to reach the desired consistency.
-
Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cheesecake is chilled, remove the sides of the springform pan.
- Place the cake on a serving platter.
- Spread cream cheese frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
- Garnish with additional chopped nuts or grated carrots if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Carrot Cake Cheesecake Bars: For a smaller portion, bake in a 9×13-inch pan and cut into bars.
- Different Frosting Options: Try cinnamon buttercream or whipped cream instead of cream cheese frosting.
- Add Fruit: Layer fresh pineapple or berries between the carrot cake and cheesecake for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian