Carrot Cake Cheesecake Recipe for Dessert Lovers

Has it ever happened to you that both the carrot cake and cheesecake sound equally amazing but you’re not sure which one to choose? In such a case, be ready to enjoy the recipe presented below! Who does not like cheesecake and carrot cake? This Carrot Cake Cheesecake is an impressive losangelic and mouth-watering creation that can be made for the holidays, birthdays, or just because you want to spoil yourself.

This recipe might appear to be too much at first, but do not be alarmed as the majority of the components are required for different layers which is the case in the layered desserts. In the end, you will have an eye candy paradise of a cake with various layers.

This Carrot Cake Cheesecake combines the best of two classic desserts in each heavenly bite, bringing together the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the spiced warmth of carrot cake. The flavors of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg give it a cozy and festive feel, making it perfect for special occasions like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a springtime brunch. The smooth blend of cream cheese and sour cream with a moist carrot cake base creates a balanced, luscious texture that everyone will love.

Carrot Cake Layer

  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/2 cup canola oil (or another neutral oil)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1-1/4 cups shredded carrots (from about 2 medium carrots)
  • 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (well-drained; save the juice for later)


Cheesecake Layer

  • 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese (softened)
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)


Topping

  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 2 teaspoons reserved pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans (toasted, optional)
  1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 9 inches springform pan and cover the base with three sheets of aluminum foil layered one on top of the other. This is crucial since it prevents penetrating water during the baking in water bath process that we will use later. Place the pan aside when done.
  2. In a big bowl, crack open the eggs and mix in the brown sugar, canola oil, and vanilla extract using a whisk until you form a smooth mixture. In the other bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg and mix properly. Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet ones mixing only until all the ingredients are combined. Finally, add the shredded carrots and the pineapple which was left in a sieve.

    Pour this batter into the prepared springform pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean. While preparing the cheesecake layer, cool the carrot cake layer completely on a wire rack.
  3. In a large bowl, using a stand mixer on medium speed, beat the cream cheese until light and fluffy for about 4-5 minutes. Add in the sugar, sour cream, flour and vanilla and mix. Mix until light and creamy, with no lumps for about 1-2 minutes. Again, mix the eggs in one by one, with a careful mix in between so that it does not get over mixed.

    Once set, the cheesecake mix which was already prepared should be spread onto the cooled carrot cake layer.
  4. Position the springform dish into a deeper roasting dish. Then carefully pour over an inch of hot water into the roasting dish making sure to create a water bath. This has the effect of allowing for proper baking of the cheesecake and also aids in preventing the cracking of the cheesecake.
  5. The cheesecake should be baked for approximately 1 hour, or until the middle is just set and the top appears matte. In the end, switch off the burner, slightly open the door of the burner and allow the cheesecake to sit for period of 30 minutes. This process of cooling is gradual, and it ensures that the cheesecake does not crack.
  6. Carefully take out the springform from the water and set it on the cooling rack. Carefully peel off the aluminum foil and keep the cake at room temperature for 2 to 3 hours. After this period, wrap the cheesecake in a plastic wrap and store it in a refrigerator for a minimum period of four hours, but to be more effective, keep it overnight. The slice will be horizontal, which will make the serving simpler.
  7. In a small bowl, mix the sour cream, confectioners’ sugar, and the reserved pineapple juice until smooth. Spread this topping over the chilled cheesecake. For an extra crunch and a beautiful presentation, sprinkle the top with toasted pecans.

Minimize Mixing: Mixing too much can lead to open fissures on the surface of the cheesecake. It’s recommended only to beat the mixture until all the ingredients are incorporated with no visible clumps.
Use Ingredients at Room Temperature: Baking is a science, and the purpose of using the eggs and the cream cheese at room temperature is to ensure a proper textured filling without lumps.
Importance of Water Bath: This is to ensure that the cheesecake does not dry out nor forms ugly cracks. One will simply make sure to wrap the spring foam pans completely with foil to eliminate any chances of water ingress.
Storage Considerations and Serving Tips
In the Refrigerator: Take care of the remnants by placing them inside a sealable container and put it in the freezer for not more than five days.
To Freeze: Long-term storage can also be achieved by freezing slices. First, place the cheesecake in the freezer for approximately 4 hours without cover. Then, cover with wrapping foil and put it in a freezer-safe container for two months. To thaw, place in the refrigerator for one night before serving.


Q: Why did my cheesecake crack?
A: Cracks in cheesecake are usually due to overmixing or rapid temperature changes. Be gentle when mixing the filling and allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven before transferring it to the fridge.

Q: What’s the secret to a creamy cheesecake?
A: The key is using full-fat, room temperature ingredients and baking the cheesecake in a water bath. Patience during the cooling process also helps!

Q: Can I make this recipe without a springform pan?
A: A springform pan is ideal for cheesecake because it allows for easy removal, but if you don’t have one, you could try using a deep pie dish. Just keep in mind that serving may be a bit more challenging.