Carrot Cake - Easier and Healthier

By srumbel

My mom's favorite cake was carrot cake. I remember learning to make homemade carrot cake...it was delicious but it took time too. Nowadays, I really enjoy finding shortcuts and tips to make healthier cakes, or mix cakes that are more like homemade. One of my favorite tips involves using yogurt rather than the ingredients called for on the cake mix box. It makes a dense cake (more like homemade), and it's somewhat healthier, to boot since there's no oil or eggs in the recipe and I've added fresh carrots and nuts! Here's a recipe for an easy-to-make yet delicious carrot cake.
from theshadyporch.com

Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 T. cinnamon
• 1/2 c. pecans or walnuts, optional
• 2 c. grated carrots
• 1 c. water
• 1 single-serving container of plain Greek yogurt
• Cream Cheese Icing
• 1 stick of butter, room temperature
• 1 - 8 oz pkg of cream cheese, room temperature
• 3 cups of powdered sugar

Preparation

Step 1

Add the water and Greek yogurt to the cake mix; mix well. Add the nuts and carrots until incorporated.
Pour into prepared cake pan(s). Place in preheated oven at 350 degrees until knife test comes out clean (approx 20-25 min).
Allow to cool and ice with your favorite icing.

Cream Cheese Icing
In a medium mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until creamy.
Gradually add the confectioners' sugar until you get the desired consistency and sweetness.
Garnish with 1/4 cup pecans (optional).