Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of spiced carrot cake wafting through my kitchen always brings back cherished memories of family gatherings and cozy celebrations. Today, I’m excited to share my secret weapon for dessert: Carrot Cake Cheesecake. This delightful combination brings together the moistness of classic carrot cake, bursting with cinnamon and cloves, and the silky richness of creamy cheesecake—all in one gorgeous dish. Not only is it a stunning centerpiece for any occasion, but the ultra-smooth cheesecake layer adds an unexpected twist that will leave your guests raving. Plus, this recipe is perfect for both special celebrations and simple weeknight indulgences. Are you ready to create a dessert that will definitely impress? Let’s dive in! Why is This Carrot Cake Cheesecake a Must-Try? Irresistible Fusion: Combining the lightness of cheesecake with the hearty, warm spices of carrot cake creates a dessert that captivates your palate. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this showstopper without stressing over complicated techniques. Versatile Delight: Perfect for everything from birthday parties to casual gatherings, it’s bound to impress. Also, if you love creative desserts, check out my Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake! Satisfying Sweetness: The blend of brown sugar and cinnamon offers a rich sweetness that balances beautifully with the tang of cream cheese. Make-Ahead Friendly: With a day to chill, this cheesecake tastes even better after resting in the fridge, making it a great option for busy hosts! Carrot Cake Cheesecake Ingredients • To create this delightful treat, gather these key ingredients. For the Cheesecake Layer Cream Cheese – Provides a rich and creamy texture for the cheesecake filling; ensure it’s softened, but not melted. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake mixture and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese. Sour Cream – Adds tang and creaminess while enhancing the smoothness of the filling. All-purpose Flour – Adds structure to the cheesecake; gluten-free alternatives can be used if needed. Eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients and providing structure. For the Carrot Cake Layer Finely Grated Carrots – Key for moisture and flavor; fresh, finely grated carrots yield the best results. Canola Oil – Keeps the carrot cake moist and tender. Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Leavening agents that ensure a perfect rise. Ground Cinnamon & Nutmeg – Add warm, aromatic spices that enhance the cake’s flavor. Unsweetened Applesauce – Increases moisture and sweetness in the carrot cake. Brown Sugar – Adds depth of sweetness and a touch of molasses flavor. For the Topping Butter – Used for richness and flavor in the cheesecake topping. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the topping and provides a smooth texture. Chopped Pecans (optional) – For added crunch; can be omitted for nut-free versions. This Carrot Cake Cheesecake is sure to steal your heart with its perfect blend of flavors! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Carrot Cake Cheesecake Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take a 9-inch springform pan and generously grease the bottom and sides with cooking spray or butter. This will ensure your Carrot Cake Cheesecake releases smoothly once baked. Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer In a large mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and flour until combined. Then, add in the softened cream cheese and blend it until smooth. Introduce the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the sour cream to create a creamy filling. Step 3: Release Air Bubbles Once the cheesecake mixture is smooth and creamy, lightly tap the bowl against the counter to dislodge any trapped air bubbles. This step is key for a silky texture in your Carrot Cake Cheesecake. Set the mixture aside as you move to the carrot cake layer. Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients for Carrot Cake In a separate large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients for the carrot cake layer, including all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures that all the leavening agents are evenly distributed across your flour base, creating an even rise throughout the cake. Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients In another bowl, mix together the wet ingredients: canola oil, brown sugar, unsweetened applesauce, and finely grated carrots. Stir until the mixture is homogeneous and the carrots are well-coated. This blend adds moisture and flavor to your Carrot Cake Cheesecake, making it irresistibly delicious. Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures Gradually fold the wet carrot cake mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake dense. The batter should be thick but moist, filled with the vibrant orange of freshly grated carrots. Step 7: Assemble the Layers To assemble your masterpiece, pour half of the carrot cake batter into the prepared springform pan. Next, carefully spread the cheesecake layer on top, followed by the remaining carrot cake batter. Drizzle any leftover cheesecake mixture on top for a decorative finish. Step 8: Bake the Cheesecake Place your layered Carrot Cake Cheesecake into the preheated oven and bake for 60-65 minutes. The center should be slightly jiggly but mostly set. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil after 40 minutes to prevent burning while the center continues to cook through. Step 9: Cool and Chill Once baked, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 1 hour. Afterward, transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 6 hours, or overnight if you can resist the temptation. This long chill time enhances the flavors and allows it to set perfectly. Step 10: Prepare the Topping When your Carrot Cake Cheesecake is chilled, prepare the topping. In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add in powdered sugar and mix until the topping is pale, fluffy, and free of lumps. Step 11: Spread and Garnish Once your topping is ready, spread it evenly over the cold Carrot Cake Cheesecake. For a delightful crunch, garnish with chopped pecans if desired. Let it chill briefly for an additional 30 minutes to set the topping before slicing. Step 12: Serve and Enjoy Finally, after all the effort, it’s time to slice your beautiful Carrot Cake Cheesecake. Serve it with a hot cup of coffee or tea, and enjoy the fantastic blend of flavors and textures. Your guests will be raving about this delicious creation! What to Serve with Carrot Cake Cheesecake? Savor the delightful experience of pairing this luscious dessert with complementary sides that enhance its flavors. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes provides a savory contrast to the sweet and spiced cheesecake layers. Perfect for a balanced meal! Crisp Garden Salad: A light, fresh salad with crunchy vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness to your dessert, providing a refreshing palate cleanser. Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea harmonize beautifully with the warm flavors of the carrot cake, elevating the cozy dessert experience. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthy flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts offer a nice textural contrast and a savory note that complements the sweetness of the cheesecake. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds coolness and a smooth texture, enhancing the indulgence of the Carrot Cake Cheesecake. Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce can take your serving experience to the next level, providing an extra layer of sweetness that complements the cake’s rich flavors. Each pairing creates a beautifully rounded meal that celebrates the delightful essence of your Carrot Cake Cheesecake! Make Ahead Options These Carrot Cake Cheesecake are perfect for busy home cooks eager to save time during the week! You can prepare the cheesecake layer up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it overnight to develop even deeper flavors. The carrot cake layer can also be mixed ahead of time—just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the carrot cake batter with the cheesecake mixture and proceed with baking. This way, you’ll enjoy a stunning dessert with minimal effort on the day of serving, leaving your guests amazed and satisfied! Carrot Cake Cheesecake Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with this recipe for a personalized touch that delights your taste buds! Nut-free: Omit the chopped pecans from the topping for a nut-free dessert option. You can still achieve great texture and flavor without them. Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version. Your gluten-sensitive friends will love this alternative! Dairy-Free: Use softened vegan cream cheese and substitute coconut cream for the topping to make it dairy-free. You’ll still enjoy a rich and creamy dessert! Pineapple Twist: Add crushed pineapple (drained) to the carrot cake mixture for a moisture boost and tropical flair. It’s a delicious surprise that enhances the overall flavor. Spice It Up: Increase the ground cinnamon and nutmeg for a bolder spice flavor, or add a pinch of ground cloves for an extra warm kick. You’ll delight in that cozy aroma! Sugar Substitutes: Swap granulated sugar with your choice of sweetener like coconut sugar or a zero-calorie sweetener to reduce sugar content. Just adjust the quantity as needed for sweetness. Pumpkin Option: Substitute half of the carrots with pureed pumpkin for a seasonal twist that brings a different texture and flavor profile. Autumn flavors at their best! Fruity Cheesecake: Blend some fresh blueberries or raspberries into the cheesecake mixture for a fruity burst of flavor, making each slice even more delightful. Ready to whip up a personalized Carrot Cake Cheesecake? And if you’re looking for more exciting desserts, be sure to check out my Lime Mousse Cheesecake and my irresistible Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake. Enjoy! How to Store and Freeze Carrot Cake Cheesecake Fridge: Store leftover Carrot Cake Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps it fresh and delicious. Freezer: If you want to enjoy your cheesecake later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It can last for up to 3 months! Reheating: To enjoy chilled, simply slice and serve straight from the fridge. If preferred warm, gently heat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Thawing: When ready to eat frozen cheesecake, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight before serving. Enjoy the delightful flavors as they come back to life! Expert Tips for Carrot Cake Cheesecake Use Fresh Carrots: Fresh, finely grated carrots yield a moist and flavorful cake. Avoid pre-shredded options for the best results. Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to prevent a dense texture—overmixing can ruin the lightness of the Carrot Cake Cheesecake. Chill Thoroughly: Be patient! Letting your cheesecake cool completely before slicing helps maintain its shape and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing; this helps achieve a smooth and fluffy topping. Foil Protection: If the top of the cheesecake starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil after 40 minutes of baking to avoid burning. Carrot Cake Cheesecake Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right carrots for the carrot cake layer? Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your Carrot Cake Cheesecake, opt for fresh, finely grated carrots. Avoid pre-shredded options as they can be drier and less flavorful. Look for carrots that are firm and bright orange, without any dark spots or blemishes. What is the best way to store leftover carrot cake cheesecake? You’ll want to keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days. If you’re not planning on enjoying it within that timeframe, consider freezing it for later enjoyment! Can I freeze carrot cake cheesecake? If so, how? Yes, indeed! To freeze your Carrot Cake Cheesecake, first wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Then, place it in a zip-top freezer bag or wrap it again in aluminum foil. It can stay deliciously preserved for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving. What should I do if the cheesecake cracks while baking? Very! Cracks can happen, but they’re easily managed. To help prevent cracking, ensure that your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing and avoid overmixing the batter. If a crack does form, you can cover it with the cream cheese topping, which not only conceals the crack but also adds a lovely flavor! Is this carrot cake cheesecake suitable for anyone with nut allergies? Absolutely! You can easily omit the optional chopped pecans for a nut-free version. Ensure that all other ingredients you use are also nut-free and check for potential cross-contamination if needed. This way, everyone can enjoy a slice of this delightful Carrot Cake Cheesecake. Delicious Carrot Cake Cheesecake That Will Steal Your Heart This Carrot Cake Cheesecake combines the moistness of carrot cake with the richness of cheesecake for an unforgettable dessert experience. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes minsChilling Time 6 hours hrsTotal Time 7 hours hrs 35 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 380 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cheesecake Layer16 oz Cream Cheese softened1 cup Granulated Sugar1/2 cup Sour Cream1/4 cup All-purpose Flour gluten-free alternatives can be used3 large EggsFor the Carrot Cake Layer2 cups Finely Grated Carrots fresh1/2 cup Canola Oil1 tsp Baking Soda1 tsp Baking Powder2 tsp Ground Cinnamon1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg1/2 cup Unsweetened Applesauce1 cup Brown SugarFor the Topping4 oz Butter softened1 cup Powdered Sugar1/2 cup Chopped Pecans optional Equipment 9-inch springform panmixing bowlswhiskspatulaOven Method PreparationPreheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.Prepare the cheesecake layer by whisking together granulated sugar and flour, then add softened cream cheese and blend until smooth. Introduce eggs one at a time, mixing well, and stir in sour cream.Tap the bowl lightly on the counter to release air bubbles and set aside.In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients for the carrot cake, ensuring even distribution of baking soda and powder.In another bowl, mix wet ingredients: canola oil, brown sugar, applesauce, and grated carrots until combined.Fold the wet carrot mixture into the dry ingredients gently until just combined.Pour half the carrot cake batter into the pan, then spread the cheesecake layer on top, followed by the remaining batter.Bake for 60-65 minutes, until mostly set with a slight jiggle.Let cool in the pan for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.Prepare the topping by beating cream cheese and butter until creamy, then add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy.Spread the topping over the cheesecake and garnish with pecans if desired. Chill for an additional 30 minutes before serving.Slice and serve with coffee or tea. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 6gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 105mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 220mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 4000IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 1mg NotesFor best results, use fresh carrots and avoid overmixing the batter. Ensure cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for the topping. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
