My Baking Addiction brings you a delicious 5 ingredient carrot cake recipe using simple pantry staples. I created this 5 ingredient carrot cake recipe after watching a home-style baking video that inspired me to try it myself.
The 5 ingredient carrot cake recipe stands out for its soft texture and rich carrot flavor using only basic ingredients. No extras needed. The main specialty of this 5 ingredient carrot cake recipe is how easy it is without compromising on taste.
Now, I will guide you step-by-step through making this 5 ingredient carrot cake recipe that’s both quick to prepare and truly satisfying.
5 Ingredient Carrot Cake Recipe
The 5 ingredient carrot cake recipe is a simple, homemade dessert made using just five basic ingredients: grated carrots, self-raising flour, sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil.
It delivers a soft, moist texture with a naturally sweet flavor from the carrots. No mixers or fancy tools are needed just a bowl, spoon, and baking tin.
This 5 ingredient carrot cake recipe is ideal for beginner bakers or anyone wanting a quick treat without complicated steps.
Despite having only a few ingredients, it bakes into a rich and satisfying cake that holds together well and can be served plain or topped with cream cheese frosting if desired.
How To Prepare Of 5 5 Ingredient Carrot Cake Recipe?
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Course: Dessert / Snack
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Western / American-style
Yield: 8 slices
Kitchen Utensils
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 8-inch round cake tin
- Baking paper or non-stick spray
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated carrots (about 2 large carrots)
- 1½ cups self-raising flour
- ¾ cup sugar (white or brown sugar, depending on your preference)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil (such as sunflower or canola oil)
Instructions
1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch cake tin with baking paper or lightly coat with non-stick spray. Grate the carrots and set them aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and vegetable oil until smooth and combined. You don’t need a mixer just a whisk or spoon will do.
3. Add the sugar to the wet mixture and stir until it dissolves slightly. Next, fold in the grated carrots. Once mixed, sift in the self-raising flour and gently mix until no dry spots remain. Don’t overmix—just until everything is combined.
4. Pour the batter into your prepared tin and smooth the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve as is or top with a simple cream cheese frosting if desired.

Note: This is a basic, no-fuss carrot cake recipe. You can enhance it by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or stir in chopped nuts or raisins if desired. Serve plain, dusted with icing sugar, or topped with a simple cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence.
Nutrition Facts Of 5 Ingredient Carrot Cake Recipe
Nutrition | Amounts |
---|---|
Calories | 230 kcal |
Fat | 10g |
Carbohydrates | 32g |
Sugars | 18g |
Protein | 4g |
Fiber | 1.5g |
Why My 5 Ingredient Carrot Cake Recipe Works
This recipe works because it focuses on balance, simplicity, and the natural moisture from the carrots. Grated carrots provide both texture and natural sweetness, keeping the cake soft without needing butter or milk.
Self-raising flour removes the need for extra leavening agents, saving time and ingredients. The eggs give structure and help the cake rise, while the oil adds richness and moisture that lasts for days.
With just five ingredients, each one has a clear purpose, making this carrot cake easy to bake, reliable every time, and perfect for anyone looking for a quick homemade dessert.
Why We Love This Recipe
We love this 5 ingredient carrot cake recipe because it uses just five simple ingredients, making it incredibly straightforward without sacrificing flavor or texture.
The carrots add natural moisture and subtle sweetness, creating a tender, soft crumb that feels wholesome. The balance of oil and eggs keeps the cake rich without being heavy.
It’s versatile enough to enjoy on its own or to pair with a frosting if desired. It’s a refreshing twist on traditional carrot cake recipes, showing that great taste doesn’t require complexity.
This 5 ingredient carrot cake recipe consistently delivers satisfying results, perfect for any time you want a comforting homemade dessert.
Health Benefits Of 5 Ingredient Carrot Cake Recipe
This 5 ingredient carrot cake recipe offers some health benefits thanks to its simple, wholesome ingredients. Carrots provide a good dose of vitamin A, which supports eye health and the immune system.
Using vegetable oil instead of butter adds healthy fats that can help with heart health when used in moderation.
The cake avoids heavy creams and excess additives, keeping it lighter than many traditional desserts. While it does contain sugar, the natural moisture and nutrients from the carrots help balance it out.
Overall, this 5 ingredient carrot cake recipe is a better choice for a treat that feels homemade and nourishing without overloading on processed ingredients.
Serving Ideas Of 5 Ingredient Carrot Cake Recipe
Serve this 5 ingredient carrot cake recipe plain for a simple, wholesome treat that highlights its natural flavors. For extra indulgence, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
It also pairs well with a sprinkle of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch. Enjoy it alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack.
For a refreshing twist, serve slices with fresh fruit or a spoonful of yogurt. This 5 ingredient carrot cake recipe works well as a light dessert or a satisfying midday pick-me-up.
Tips And Variations
➤ Grate the Carrots Finely: Using finely grated carrots helps the cake batter blend smoothly, resulting in a tender crumb and even moisture throughout the cake. Larger carrot pieces might create uneven texture or pockets of moisture.
➤ Swap White Sugar for Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a richer, slightly caramel-like flavor and a bit more moisture compared to white sugar. This small change enhances the overall taste and gives the cake a deeper color.
➤ Add Warm Spices: Even though the original recipe is simple, a small pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger can elevate the flavor without needing extra ingredients. These spices complement the natural sweetness of the carrots perfectly.
➤ Incorporate Nuts or Dried Fruit: For added texture and flavor, fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins. These additions introduce a pleasant crunch or chewiness, making each bite more interesting.
➤ Use Applesauce Instead of Oil: Replacing vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce cuts down on fat and adds a subtle sweetness. This variation keeps the cake moist while making it a bit lighter and healthier.
Additions To Make Delicious
◆ Cream Cheese Frosting: A classic topping made with cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and a touch of vanilla adds creamy richness and a slight tang that balances the sweetness perfectly.
◆ Chopped Walnuts or Pecans: Adding toasted nuts into the batter or sprinkling them on top adds a satisfying crunch and enhances the flavor with a nutty depth.
◆ Raisins or Sultanas: Stirring in some raisins or sultanas provides bursts of natural sweetness and chewy texture throughout the cake.
◆ Shredded Coconut: Mixing in shredded coconut adds a subtle tropical flavor and extra moisture, giving the cake more complexity.
◆ Orange Zest: A teaspoon of fresh orange zest brightens the flavor with citrusy notes, complementing the earthiness of the carrots beautifully.
When To Serve
This 5 ingredient carrot cake recipe is great to serve anytime you want a wholesome, homemade treat. It works perfectly as an afternoon snack with tea or coffee.
It can also be a comforting dessert after dinner, especially when topped with cream cheese frosting or a dollop of whipped cream.
It’s ideal for casual gatherings, family get-togethers, or potlucks where you want something simple yet satisfying. The cake keeps well, so it’s also a nice option to prepare ahead for busy days.
Storage & Make Ahead
Store the 5 ingredient carrot cake recipe wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh. Without frosting, it lasts 3-4 days at room temperature.
If frosted, refrigerate and bring to room temperature before serving. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in foil inside a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
This 5 ingredient carrot cake recipe is great for making ahead bake the cake a day or two before serving to save time and ensure the flavors fully develop.
Conclusion
Making this 5 ingredient carrot cake was a fun and rewarding experience. It’s amazing how such a simple recipe can produce a moist, flavorful, and satisfying dessert.
We enjoyed every bite and were surprised by how easy it was to prepare with minimal ingredients. This cake proves you don’t need a long list to create something delicious.
I hope you try 5 ingredient carrot cake recipe too and share the joy of baking something homemade, tasty, and effortlessly delightful with your loved ones.
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5 Ingredient Carrot Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 8-inch round cake tin
- Baking paper or non-stick spray
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated carrots about 2 large carrots
- 1½ cups self-raising flour
- ¾ cup sugar white or brown sugar, depending on your preference
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil such as sunflower or canola oil
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch cake tin with baking paper or lightly coat with non-stick spray. Grate the carrots and set them aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and vegetable oil until smooth and combined. You don’t need a mixer just a whisk or spoon will do.
- Add the sugar to the wet mixture and stir until it dissolves slightly. Next, fold in the grated carrots. Once mixed, sift in the self-raising flour and gently mix until no dry spots remain. Don’t overmix—just until everything is combined.
- Pour the batter into your prepared tin and smooth the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve as is or top with a simple cream cheese frosting if desired.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Of 5 Ingredient Carrot Cake Recipe
Nutrition | Amounts |
---|---|
Calories | 230 kcal |
Fat | 10g |
Carbohydrates | 32g |
Sugars | 18g |
Protein | 4g |
Fiber | 1.5g |

Hi! I’m Sophia, your trusted cake guide with years of hands-on baking experience. I’m passionate about creating delicious and wholesome cakes that bring happiness to every occasion and home. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and inspiration to make your baking journey enjoyable and rewarding. From classic flavors to healthy twists, my goal is to help you discover the joy of baking and sharing beautiful cakes with family and friends.