Save Celebrate the arrival of spring with a delightful treat that brings joy and whimsy to your table. This Spring Bunny Carrot Cake is more than just a dessert—it's a charming centerpiece crafted to resemble an adorable bunny, complete with fluffy coconut fur and sweet pink accents. Moist, spiced, and lovingly decorated, it’s perfect for festive gatherings and Easter celebrations where smiles are just as important as flavor.
Save Beyond its delightful appearance, this carrot cake combines traditional flavors with creative presentation. The blend of warming spices, grated carrots, and optional nuts and raisins creates a rich texture and taste. With simple steps to shape and decorate, it’s a rewarding baking project that will impress both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- For the Carrot Cake
2 1/2 cups (320 g) all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground ginger
1 cup (220 g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (100 g) light brown sugar, packed
4 large eggs
1 cup (240 ml) vegetable oil
1/2 cup (120 ml) unsweetened applesauce
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
3 cups (300 g) grated carrots
1 cup (120 g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
1/2 cup (80 g) raisins (optional) - For the Cream Cheese Frosting
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
3 1/2 cups (440 g) powdered sugar, sifted
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Pinch of salt - For Decoration
1 cup (100 g) shredded coconut (for fur)
Pink food coloring (for ears and nose)
Brown or black candies/chocolate chips (for eyes)
Marshmallows (for tail and cheeks)
Edible flowers, pastel candies, or sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pans with parchment paper.
- 2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- 3. In another bowl, beat eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add oil, applesauce, and vanilla, mixing well.
- 4. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Stir in carrots, and if using, nuts and raisins.
- 5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- 6. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- 7. For the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, beating until fluffy.
- 8. To assemble the bunny: Place one round cake as the bunny’s face. Cut two symmetrical ovals from the second cake for ears; use the remaining piece to form the bunny’s bowtie or feet.
- 9. Arrange on a large platter. Frost generously with cream cheese frosting.
- 10. Sprinkle shredded coconut over the frosted cake to resemble fur.
- 11. Tint a small amount of coconut pink for the ear centers and nose; apply accordingly.
- 12. Use candies or chocolate chips for eyes; marshmallows for cheeks and tail.
- 13. Decorate with edible flowers, pastel candies, or sprinkles as desired.
- 14. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Ensuring even baking and proper cooling is key to shaping this cake perfectly. Use parchment paper for easy release, and wait until completely cooled before carving to avoid crumbling. When frosting, an offset spatula helps achieve a neat finish. Coloring shredded coconut gently prevents clumping and adds subtle, charming details.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe offers flexibility to suit dietary needs and preferences. Omit nuts to make it nut-free, or substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. For gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend. You can also customize decorations with different candies or edible flowers to match your celebration’s theme.
Serviervorschläge
Serve the Spring Bunny Carrot Cake chilled for easier slicing, accompanied by a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of tea. It makes a charming dessert centerpiece for Easter brunch, springtime parties, or any festive occasion wanting a touch of seasonal whimsy.
Save The Spring Bunny Carrot Cake is a heartwarming blend of flavor and festivity, sure to become a beloved tradition. Its whimsical design and moist, spiced crumb invite smiles and sweet memories. Whether for family or friends, this confection adds a special touch that celebrates both springtime and the joys of baking.
Recipe FAQ
- → What gives the cake its moist texture?
The combination of vegetable oil, unsweetened applesauce, and grated carrots helps keep the cake moist and tender.
- → Can I make this cake nut-free?
Yes, simply omit the chopped walnuts or pecans without affecting the overall flavor or texture.
- → How is the bunny shape formed?
Two round cakes are baked; one remains whole for the face, while the other is cut into oval shapes to create ears and body features.
- → What spices are used in the batter?
A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground ginger creates a warm, aromatic spice profile.
- → How do you create the fur effect on the cake?
Shredded coconut is spread over the frosted cake to mimic fur, with some tinted pink for accents like ears and nose.
- → Can this cake be prepared in advance?
Yes, it can be baked a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator for convenience.