Carrot Cake Cheesecake

Carrot Cake Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert mashup, combining the warm spices and moist texture of classic carrot cake with the rich, creamy indulgence of cheesecake. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: tender, flavorful carrot cake packed with shredded carrots, crushed pineapple, and aromatic spices, layered with a luscious cream cheese filling for a dessert that feels decadent yet approachable.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a birthday, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this Carrot Cake Cheesecake will impress both visually and taste-wise. Its spiced aroma and creamy texture make it a perfect centerpiece for any dessert table.

Why Carrot Cake Cheesecake?

Carrot cake has always been a favorite due to its balance of sweetness, spice, and texture. When paired with creamy cheesecake, it transforms into a luxurious treat that’s both comforting and elegant. The cream cheese layer adds a smooth richness, while the carrot cake layer provides texture and flavor complexity.

Ingredients Overview

• Crust: Graham crackers or digestive biscuits, butter, a touch of cinnamon.
• Cheesecake Layer: Cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and a hint of lemon for brightness.
• Carrot Cake Layer: Grated carrots, crushed pineapple, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and walnuts (optional).
• Toppings: Cream cheese frosting, chopped walnuts, and optional shredded coconut for garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the crust: Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter and cinnamon. Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Chill while preparing the filling.
2. Make the cheesecake layer: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, vanilla, and a splash of lemon juice. Pour over the prepared crust.
3. Prepare the carrot cake layer: Mix grated carrots, crushed pineapple, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and optional walnuts in a separate bowl.
4. Layer and swirl: Carefully spread the carrot cake mixture over the cheesecake layer and use a knife to create gentle swirls. This gives a beautiful marbled effect.
5. Bake: Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 50–60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but slightly jiggly in the center. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Top and serve: Frost with cream cheese frosting and sprinkle with chopped walnuts or coconut if desired. Slice with a sharp knife and serve chilled.

Carrot Cake Cheesecake

A luscious dessert combining moist, spiced carrot cake with creamy cheesecake. Perfect for holidays or special occasions.

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins

Servings: 12 slices

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American, Bakery

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Crust

• 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 0.25 cup unsalted butter melted
• 1 tsp cinnamon

Cheesecake Layer

• 16 oz cream cheese softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs large
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Carrot Cake Layer

• 1.5 cups grated carrots
• 0.5 cup crushed pineapple drained
• 3/4 cup brown sugar packed
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 0.5 tsp nutmeg
• 0.25 tsp cloves optional
• 0.5 cup chopped walnuts optional

Equipment

• Springform pan
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a springform pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and cinnamon. Press into the bottom of the pan and chill.
3. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla and lemon juice. Pour over crust.
4. Combine grated carrots, crushed pineapple, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and walnuts. Spread over cheesecake layer and gently swirl.
5. Bake 50–60 minutes until cheesecake is set but slightly jiggly in center. Cool completely and refrigerate 4+ hours.
6. Frost with cream cheese frosting and top with walnuts or shredded coconut. Slice and serve chilled.

Notes

Best served chilled. Flavors develop after refrigerating overnight. Nut-free variations available by omitting walnuts.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a cup of spiced tea or coffee for the perfect afternoon treat.
• Slice thin for a dessert buffet or serve thick for a more indulgent portion.
• Add caramel drizzle for an extra touch of decadence.

Storage Tips

Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors often improve after sitting overnight. For longer storage, cheesecake slices can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Health Benefits

While indulgent, this dessert contains carrots and pineapple, which add vitamins and natural sweetness. Using moderate amounts of sugar and healthy toppings like walnuts can make it a slightly more balanced treat.

Variations

• Spice swap: Add ginger or cloves for a more aromatic flavor.
• Nut-free: Omit walnuts and replace with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds if desired.
• Mini cheesecakes: Use a muffin tin to make individual servings for parties.

Why You’ll Love It

Carrot Cake Cheesecake offers the perfect balance between sweet and spiced, creamy and textured. Its impressive presentation and irresistible flavor make it a must-try for any dessert lover.