Easy Carrot Cake Traybake Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, delightful treat that’s as easy to bake as it is to eat, this Easy Carrot Cake Traybake is your new best friend. Packed with tender grated carrots, warming spices, and a subtle sweetness, this traybake offers all the classic comforts of carrot cake but in a straightforward, no-fuss format that fits perfectly into your busy life. It’s moist, flavorful, and versatile—ideal for sharing at afternoon tea or as a cozy dessert to brighten any day.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a truly delicious carrot cake. Each one plays its part: the carrots add moisture and natural sweetness, the spices bring warmth and depth, and the brown sugar lends a rich, caramel-like undertone. Even if you’ve never baked a traybake before, these pantry staples make success totally achievable.

• Grated carrots (1½ cups): Freshly grated for moisture and that signature carrot cake texture.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): The sturdy base that holds everything together.
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the traybake rise and become light.
• Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Works with the acidity to create a tender crumb.
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds warm, inviting spice.
• Ground nutmeg (½ teaspoon): Provides a subtle, nutty depth.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness.
• Vegetable oil (½ cup): Keeps the cake moist and rich without heaviness.
• Brown sugar (¾ cup): Infuses the cake with a deep, molasses-like sweetness.
• Eggs (2 large): Bind the ingredients and add structure.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Elevates the overall aroma and flavor.
• Chopped walnuts (½ cup, optional): Add a lovely crunch and earthiness.
• Raisins (½ cup, optional): Bring bursts of chewy sweetness throughout the cake.

How to Make Easy Carrot Cake Traybake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Tray

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), because having a hot oven ready ensures your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully. Line a 9×13-inch baking tray with parchment paper—this simple step prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This combination of dry ingredients creates the cake’s structure and releases those mesmerizing spicy notes.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk your vegetable oil, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and well blended. This mixture adds the moisture and sweetness that make the traybake so tender and flavorful.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring gently but confidently until just combined. Over-mixing can make the cake dense, so stop once you see all the flour go away.

Step 5: Fold in Carrots and Extras

Gently fold the grated carrots into the batter, incorporating them evenly for that signature chew and sweetness. If you’re adding walnuts or raisins, now’s the time to stir them in—these extras take the flavor up a notch.

Step 6: Bake Until Perfect

Pour the batter into your prepared tray, spreading it out with a spatula to ensure an even thickness. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it toward the end; it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Let the traybake cool completely in the pan so it sets nicely. Once cooled, slice into generous squares and get ready to enjoy every comforting bite.

How to Serve Easy Carrot Cake Traybake

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar can add a delicate sweetness and make the traybake look utterly inviting. Alternatively, a classic cream cheese frosting spread thickly on top turns it into a delightful centerpiece. For a rustic touch, sprinkle some chopped walnuts or a few additional raisins on top.

Side Dishes

This Easy Carrot Cake Traybake shines best on its own, but pairing it with a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates the experience to special-occasion status. A warm cup of chai tea or coffee perfectly complements the spices in the cake, warming you up from the inside out.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual gathering, serve the traybake in its baking dish with a small serving spatula, inviting everyone to help themselves. Or, for a refined dessert plate, cut neat squares, drizzle lightly with honey or a caramel sauce, and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or edible flowers for a pop of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover carrot cake covered tightly in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping it sealed ensures the traybake stays moist and doesn’t pick up any unwanted flavors from your kitchen.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this traybake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to 3 months while maintaining its lovely texture and flavor.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy frozen traybake, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Warm slices gently in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or pop them into a warm oven wrapped in foil to revive just-baked softness and aroma.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Absolutely! A 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour can be used as a direct substitute to ensure your Easy Carrot Cake Traybake stays moist and tender without the gluten.

Is it necessary to add nuts and raisins?

Not at all—the walnuts and raisins are optional. They add texture and bursts of flavor, but the traybake is just as delicious without them if you have allergies or prefer it simpler.

Can I make this traybake vegan?

With some swaps, yes. Replace the eggs with flax eggs or another vegan binder, and use a plant-based milk instead of vegetable oil if you prefer. The texture may be slightly different, but still scrumptious.

How long does the Easy Carrot Cake Traybake keep fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, it stays fresh for about 3 days. Refrigeration can extend this by a few more days but may slightly dry out the cake.

Can I add other spices or flavorings?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with cardamom, ginger, or even a hint of orange zest to personalize your traybake and make it uniquely yours.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Carrot Cake Traybake is a shining example of how simplicity and warmth combine to create a truly satisfying dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying something new, this recipe delivers reliable results and flavors that feel like home. Make it your go-to sweet treat and watch it become a family favorite in no time!