Brazilian Carrot Cake

Name: Brazilian Carrot Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8-10 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups grated carrots; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup vegetable oil; 4 large eggs; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the delightful sweetness and moist texture of Brazilian Carrot Cake, a beloved treat that features a unique twist with chocolate ganache. This easy-to-follow recipe combines fresh carrots with pantry staples, creating a decadent dessert that's perfect for any occasion or family gathering. Serve it at your next celebration and watch it become an instant favorite!

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2025-12-09T00:49:52.960Z

A Flavorful Twist on a Classic

Brazilian Carrot Cake is a beloved dessert in Brazil, known for its moist texture and sweet, earthy flavor. This cake is not your ordinary carrot cake; it comes with a rich chocolate ganache that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the carrots. The combination of the carrot’s subtle flavor with the decadent chocolate creates a dessert that’s both unique and irresistible.

Understanding the balance of flavors in this cake is key to appreciating its charm. The carrots not only add moisture but also a slight sweetness, which is enhanced by the creamy chocolate topping. With every slice, you’ll experience a harmonious blend that results in a delightful treat for your taste buds.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a regular family gathering, Brazilian Carrot Cake is an excellent choice to impress your guests. Its vibrant color and glossy ganache make it visually appealing, and the taste is sure to leave everyone wanting more. This cake is easy to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

Additionally, it can be served as a simple dessert or dressed up with decorative touches for a more festive presentation. No matter the occasion, this cake will surely become a centerpiece, drawing compliments and smiles from everyone in attendance.

Tips for the Best Brazilian Carrot Cake

To ensure your Brazilian Carrot Cake turns out perfectly, it’s essential to use fresh, quality ingredients. Grating the carrots yourself not only enhances the flavor but also provides a better texture than using pre-packaged, shredded carrots. The finer the grate, the more moisture the cake will retain while baking.

When preparing the chocolate ganache, make sure to slowly bring the cream to a simmer without boiling it. This process allows the chocolate to melt evenly and keeps the ganache smooth. If you desire a thicker ganache, feel free to adjust the chocolate-to-cream ratio to your liking.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups grated carrots
1 cup sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache

200g dark chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a blender, combine grated carrots, sugar, oil, and eggs. Blend until smooth. In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Combine both mixtures, adding vanilla extract.

Bake the Cake

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Pour the batter into a greased round cake pan. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow it to cool.

Make the Chocolate Ganache

In a saucepan, bring the heavy cream to a simmer. Remove from heat and add chopped chocolate, stirring until melted and smooth.

Assemble and Serve

Once the cake is completely cool, pour the chocolate ganache over the top. Let it set before slicing and serving.

Storage and Shelf Life

Once your Brazilian Carrot Cake is baked and frosted with chocolate ganache, it can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. However, if you live in a warmer climate, it's best to keep it in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Just make sure to cover it loosely with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

If you have leftovers, you can freeze the cake for up to three months. Be sure to slice it beforehand for easier serving later. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container to preserve their texture and flavor during freezing.

FAQs About Brazilian Carrot Cake

One common question about Brazilian Carrot Cake is whether it can be made ahead of time. The answer is yes! You can prepare the cake a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together, and then add the ganache just before serving. This not only saves time on the day of your event but can also enhance the cake’s moistness.

Another frequently asked question is how to customize the cake. You can easily add nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture and flavor. Alternatively, consider incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the cake's warmth. These slight variations can make your Brazilian Carrot Cake even more personal and delightful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour for a healthier option.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.