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J. Alexander's Carrot Cake Recipe

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Carrot cake is a beloved classic dessert that has been around for generations. With its soft, moist crumb, sweet cream cheese frosting, and bursts of cinnamon, carrot cake is the perfect treat to enjoy with family and friends. If you love carrot cake, you have to try the famous recipe from J. Alexander's restaurant. Their moist, perfectly spiced carrot cake topped with rich cream cheese frosting is legendary. Read on to learn how to make this amazing J. Alexander's carrot cake recipe at home.

J. Alexander's carrot cake recipe produces a layered cake that is fluffy and full of flavor. Grated carrots, coconut, crushed pineapple, raisins, and nuts provide moisture and texture while cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla add comforting spice flavor. A tangy cream cheese frosting balances the sweetness of the cake for the perfect finish. Let's look at the simple ingredients you'll need to make this delicious homemade copycat recipe.

Ingredients

For the cake:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1⁄2 cups vegetable oil
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3 cups grated carrots (about 6 medium carrots)
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • 1 cup raisins or walnuts (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the frosting:

  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1⁄2 cup butter, softened
  • 3 cups confectioners' sugar
  • 1 1⁄2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

Here is a step-by-step guide to making perfect layers of moist, spiced carrot cake and tangy cream cheese frosting just like J. Alexander's:

Make the Cake:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans and set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the oil and sugar together until combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time until smooth.
  4. Stir in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, coconut, raisins/walnuts (if using), and vanilla.
  5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined (do not overmix).
  6. Evenly divide the batter between the prepared pans.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.

Make the Frosting:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
  2. Gradually beat in the confectioners' sugar until combined and fluffy.
  3. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Assemble the Cake:

  1. Place one cake layer on a cake stand or serving plate.
  2. Evenly cover the top with frosting.
  3. Top with the second cake layer and spread remaining frosting all over the top and sides.
  4. Garnish with walnuts or coconut if desired.
  5. Refrigerate cake for at least 1 hour before serving.

With its decadent cream cheese frosting, moist texture, and warm spices, this J. Alexander's copycat carrot cake is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. The pineapple and coconut add tropical flair while the carrots and eggs keep the cake nice and moist. Feel free to dress it up with chopped nuts, raisins, or even edible flowers on top.

Tips for Making the Best J. Alexander's Carrot Cake

Here are some helpful tips to ensure homemade success:

  • Use fresh carrots and grate them yourself for the best flavor. Pre-grated carrots lose moisture over time.
  • Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added. Gentle folding preserves moisture.
  • Check for doneness early to prevent overbaking. The cake is done when it springs back lightly and an inserted toothpick is clean.
  • Cool the cake completely before assembling and frosting for neat, clean slices.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth frosting. Softened butter also blends easier.
  • Chill the finished cake for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and frosting to set.

Storing and Freezing Instructions

Carrot cake stays fresh covered at room temperature for several days. For longer storage, refrigerate up to 5 days. The cake can also be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap then foil and frozen for 2-3 months.

Thaw frozen carrot cake overnight in the refrigerator before decorating with frosting. Frosted cake should be refrigerated. Allow slices to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This carrot cake is fantastic on its own but there are lots of tasty ways to dress it up or serve it:

  • Garnish with chopped walnuts, coconut, raisins, or edible flowers.
  • Add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce over individual slices.
  • Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added decadence.
  • Layer sliced cake with sweetened cream cheese for a dessert trifle.
  • Enjoy slices with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon pick-me-up.
  • Serve mini carrot cakes at a birthday party or bridal shower.

No matter how you serve it up, this moist, flavorful J. Alexander's copycat carrot cake is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

Conclusion

J. Alexander's legendary carrot cake with cream cheese frosting is a must-try recipe for carrot cake lovers. The key to mimicking this restaurant favorite at home is using fresh grated carrots, a balanced blend of spices, and tangy cream cheese frosting. Proper mixing and baking ensures tender, moist layers infused with flavor. Follow the step-by-step instructions and helpful tips above to make the ultimate homemade carrot cake your friends and family will rave about. Enjoy this J. Alexander's classic at your next celebration or anytime you crave a delectable slice of spiced cake.

FAQs

Q: Can I use canned pineapple instead of crushed pineapple?

A: It's best to use crushed pineapple that has been drained for this recipe. The chunks in canned pineapple can make the cake batter uneven. Drain canned pineapple well before using.

Q: What size pans work best for this cake?

A: For even layers, bake this cake in two greased and floured 9-inch round pans.

Q: How long will the cake stay fresh?

A: Properly stored carrot cake will last 3-5 days at room temperature and up to one week refrigerated. It can also be frozen for 2-3 months.

Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free baking flour blend in the same amount.

Q: What type of cream cheese works best in the frosting?

A: Regular full-fat cream cheese provides the best flavor and texture. Use brick style, not whipped or low-fat.

Enjoy this classic J. Alexander's carrot cake recipe for your next special occasion!

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