Publix Carrot Cake Recipe – Moist and Delicious

Publix Carrot Cake Recipe is a rich, moist dessert made with freshly grated carrots, ginger, coconut, and a smooth cream cheese frosting.

I made this Publix Carrot Cake Recipe after seeing it featured in a local baking show that highlighted classic American desserts. The vibrant color and texture inspired me to try it at home.

The specialty of this Publix Carrot Cake Recipe lies in its balance of spice, natural sweetness from carrots, and the creamy tang of the frosting.

I will now guide you through each step to create this Publix Carrot Cake Recipe so you can enjoy a homemade version of this bakery favorite.

Publix Carrot Cake Recipe

This Publix Carrot Cake Recipe is a moist, rich, and flavorful dessert packed with freshly shredded carrots, warm cinnamon, and a hint of grated ginger for depth.

The batter is blended with chopped pecans and shredded coconut, adding texture and sweetness. Baked to golden perfection, the cake is then layered or topped with a smooth, creamy frosting made from cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar.

A final touch of toasted coconut chips gives it a delightful crunch. Each bite delivers a perfect blend of spice and sweetness, making this a crowd-pleasing treat that tastes just like the Publix bakery favorite.

How To Prepare Publix Carrot Cake Recipe?

Prep time: 30 minutes

Cooking time: 45 minutes

Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 servings

Kitchen Utensils

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Box grater or food processor
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Cooling rack
• Offset spatula or knife for frosting
• Sifter (optional)

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, peeled and grated
• 1 lb fresh carrots, finely shredded (about 3 cups)
• 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups shredded coconut
• Cooking spray
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs (or 1 cup egg substitute)
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup toasted coconut chips (optional garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray two 9-inch round pans) with cooking spray and set aside.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

3. Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, eggs (or egg substitute), and oil until smooth and light. Add in grated ginger, shredded carrots, and shredded coconut. Mix well. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated. Fold in chopped pecans gently.

4. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and spread evenly. Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

5. Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and continue to beat until light and fluffy.

6. Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top (and sides if using round pans). Use an offset spatula or butter knife for a smooth finish.

7. Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle toasted coconut chips over the frosted cake for added texture and flavor (optional). Slice and serve. Keep refrigerated if not serving immediately.

Nutrition Facts Of Publix Carrot Cake Recipe

Nutrition	Amounts
Calories	540
Total Fat	30g
Saturated Fat	11g
Cholesterol	75mg
Sodium	320mg
Total Carbohydrates	65g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	45g
Protein	5g

Why My Recipe Works

This Publix Carrot Cake Recipe works because it balances moisture, texture, and flavor perfectly. Freshly shredded carrots provide natural sweetness and keep the cake tender, while the grated ginger adds a subtle, warming spice that sets it apart.

The combination of baking powder and baking soda ensures the cake rises well without becoming dense. The addition of shredded coconut and pecans brings a satisfying crunch and depth.

The cream cheese frosting is rich but not overpowering, complementing the spices and sweetness beautifully. Each element supports the others, resulting in a classic carrot cake that’s flavorful, moist, and delicious every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Publix Carrot Cake Recipe because it delivers a moist, flavorful carrot cake that feels homemade yet tastes like it’s from a bakery. The fresh ingredients create a natural sweetness balanced by warm spices and the slight zing of ginger.

The addition of shredded coconut and pecans gives each bite a satisfying texture, while the creamy cream cheese frosting adds just the right amount of tangy richness.

This Publix Carrot Cake Recipe is easy to make but impressive enough to serve at any gathering. It’s a comforting dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia, making every slice enjoyable and memorable.

Serving Ideas

Serving this Publix Carrot Cake Recipe with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream enhances its creamy texture and adds a cool contrast.

Pair it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or spiced chai tea to complement the warm cinnamon and ginger flavors. For a festive touch, garnish each slice with extra toasted coconut or a few whole pecans.

It also works beautifully as a dessert for special occasions like birthdays or holiday gatherings. Serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture, allowing the frosting to be soft and the cake tender.

Health Benefits Publix Carrot Cake Recipe

Publix Carrot Cake Recipe contains fresh carrots, which are rich in vitamins like beta-carotene that support vision and immune health.

The pecans provide healthy fats and protein, contributing to heart health and helping keep you full. Shredded coconut adds fiber and minerals, while fresh ginger offers natural anti-inflammatory benefits and aids digestion.

Although this publix carrot cake recipe is a treat with sugar and fat, the combination of these nutrient-rich ingredients gives it some added nutritional value.

Enjoying this carrot cake in moderation means you can indulge while still getting small health benefits from its wholesome components.

Tips And Variations

➤ Use Freshly Grated Carrots: Freshly shredded carrots retain more moisture and natural sweetness, making the cake tender and flavorful. Avoid pre-packaged shredded carrots, as they tend to dry out and can affect the cake’s texture.

➤ Add Crushed Pineapple: Mixing in about ½ cup of well-drained crushed pineapple adds extra moisture and a subtle fruity note that enhances the overall flavor and keeps the cake soft longer.

➤ Swap Nuts for Variety: While pecans are traditional, you can use walnuts or even toasted almonds for a different crunch and flavor twist. Toasting the nuts before adding them intensifies their aroma and taste.

➤ Enhance the Spice Blend: Along with cinnamon, incorporate a small amount of ground nutmeg, cloves, or allspice to deepen the cake’s warm, spicy flavor, giving it a more complex and cozy profile.

➤ Make Mini Versions: Pour the batter into cupcake liners for easy-to-serve portions. Reduce baking time to about 20-25 minutes, and frost each cupcake individually for a fun and portable dessert option.

Additions And Substitutions

◆ Add Raisins or Currants: Stir in ½ to ¾ cup of raisins or currants for a sweet, chewy texture that complements the spices and carrots.

◆ Substitute Oil with Applesauce: Replace half or all of the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat and add natural sweetness, making the cake a bit lighter.

◆ Use Whole Wheat Flour: Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour (or half and half) for a nuttier flavor and added fiber without sacrificing moisture.

◆ Add Orange Zest: Mix in 1 teaspoon of fresh orange zest to brighten the flavor and add a citrus twist that pairs well with the spices.

◆ Replace Pecans with Sunflower Seeds: For a nut-free option, substitute pecans with toasted sunflower seeds to maintain crunch and add a mild, nutty taste.

How To Store Leftovers

To store leftover Publix Carrot Cake Recipe, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Store the cake in the refrigerator because of the cream cheese frosting, which needs to stay cool.

Properly stored, the cake will stay moist and delicious for up to 4-5 days. Before serving, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften the frosting and bring out the flavors.

For longer storage, you can freeze the Publix Carrot Cake Recipe (wrapped well) for up to 2 months just thaw it overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

This delicious Publix Carrot Cake Recipe is a wonderful treat that’s sure to impress anyone you serve it to. With its moist texture, rich flavors, and creamy frosting, it’s perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a special dessert.

I hope you give this Publix Carrot Cake Recipe a try and enjoy every bite as much as I do. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s such a favorite.

Serve it with your favorite beverage, share it with loved ones, and savor the flavors that make this Publix Carrot Cake Recipe truly memorable. Happy baking!

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