If you are looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines the comforting warmth of classic carrot cake with the rich creaminess of cheesecake, you have to try this Carrot Cake Cheesecake Recipe – Easy Holiday Dessert. It’s the perfect fusion of tender, spiced carrot cake layered beneath a smooth, tangy cheesecake, creating a dessert that’s both cozy and elegant. Whether it’s for a festive holiday gathering or a special family treat, this recipe promises to deliver layers of flavor and texture that everyone will rave about.

Carrot Cake Cheesecake Recipe – Easy Holiday Dessert Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create an extraordinary dessert. Each component has its role, from the fragrant spices to the creamy filling, making this Carrot Cake Cheesecake Recipe – Easy Holiday Dessert a harmonious delight.

All-purpose flour (1 cup): Provides the structure for the carrot cake layer, keeping it tender yet sturdy.

Baking powder and baking soda (½ tsp each): These leavening agents help the cake rise just right for a light texture.
Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness and spices perfectly.

Ground cinnamon (1 tsp) and nutmeg (¼ tsp): Add warm, aromatic spices essential to the classic carrot cake flavor.
Large eggs (4 total): Bind the ingredients and add richness; two for the cake and two for the cheesecake layer.

Granulated sugar (1 cup total): Sweetens both layers, with half incorporated into the cake and half into the cheesecake.
Light brown sugar (½ cup): Adds moisture and a subtle caramel note to the carrot cake layer.
Vegetable oil (½ cup): Keeps the carrot cake moist and tender.

Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor with its sweet, fragrant aroma.
Finely shredded carrots (1½ cups): The star of the cake, bringing natural sweetness, moisture, and color.
Chopped walnuts or pecans (½ cup, optional): Add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, but feel free to omit if preferred.

Cream cheese (16 oz, softened): The key ingredient for the creamy and tangy cheesecake layer.
All-purpose flour (2 tbsp): Stabilizes the cheesecake and prevents cracks.
Sour cream (¼ cup): Adds richness and a slight tang, making the cheesecake extra smooth and luscious.

How to Make Carrot Cake Cheesecake Recipe – Easy Holiday Dessert

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan thoroughly and, if you want to be extra careful, line the bottom with parchment paper. This setup ensures your cheesecake pops out easily when it’s done and that nothing sticks or burns during baking.

Step 2: Make the Carrot Cake Layer

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in one bowl—you want those spices evenly distributed. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until everything is nice and smooth. Then, fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently, followed by the shredded carrots and nuts if you’re using them. Pour this batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. This layer will serve as a moist, flavorful base for your cheesecake.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

Next, grab a clean bowl and beat the softened cream cheese until it’s creamy and lump-free. Add the sugar and flour, mixing until combined. Beat in the vanilla extract, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the sour cream to bring extra creaminess and a lovely tang to the cheesecake. Pour this luscious mixture gently over the carrot cake layer, trying not to mix them together but creating that perfect two-layer effect.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake your masterpiece for 50 to 60 minutes. You want the center just set but with a slight jiggle—that’s the sweet spot that keeps your cheesecake silky. Once done, turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cake cool inside the oven for about 30 minutes to prevent cracks from sudden temperature changes.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

After the oven time, let your cake cool completely at room temperature before placing it in the fridge. Chilling it for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait that long, helps the flavors meld and the cheesecake layer to set beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve this Carrot Cake Cheesecake Recipe – Easy Holiday Dessert chilled or slightly warmed to room temperature. It’s delightful either way and sure to impress every guest.

How to Serve Carrot Cake Cheesecake Recipe – Easy Holiday Dessert

Garnishes

Elevate your presentation and flavor with some thoughtful garnishing. Whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the dense texture of the cheesecake. Chopped nuts on top bring a crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy layers, while a drizzle of cream cheese glaze ties it all together with extra sweetness and tang.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs fabulously with a variety of accompaniments. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a warm spiced chai can highlight the cinnamon and nutmeg notes beautifully. For a refreshing contrast, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of citrus-infused yogurt to cut through the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider cutting the cheesecake into elegant squares or wedges and serving on decorative plates with a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder dusted around the edge. For holiday gatherings, adding edible flowers or mini carrot decorations made from marzipan can make it even more festive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your carrot cake cheesecake, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, ready to satisfy your sweet tooth whenever it strikes again.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 2 months frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to maintain that perfect texture.

Reheating

Since this dessert tastes best cold or at room temperature, reheating isn’t usually necessary. If you prefer it just slightly warmed, leave the slice out for about 30 minutes before serving instead of using the microwave, which can alter the cheesecake’s smooth texture.

FAQs

Can I use a regular cake pan instead of a springform pan?

While a springform pan is ideal for easy removal, you can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper. Just be extra careful when unmolding the cheesecake, as it’s more delicate.

Do I have to add nuts to the carrot cake layer?

Nope! Nuts are optional and can be left out if you have allergies or prefer a nut-free dessert. The flavor and texture will still be fantastic.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute cream cheese and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives, but keep in mind the texture and taste may vary slightly. Experiment with your favorite plant-based cream cheese to find the best fit.

How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?

Ensure you don’t overbake and allow the cake to cool gently by cracking the oven door towards the end of baking. Using room temperature ingredients and adding flour to the cheesecake layer also helps keep it stable.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour in both cake and cheesecake layers to keep the recipe gluten-free while maintaining great texture.

Final Thoughts

This Carrot Cake Cheesecake Recipe – Easy Holiday Dessert is one of those rare treats you’ll find yourself making again and again because it feels like both a special occasion indulgence and a comforting classic all rolled into one. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—your friends and family will be begging you for the recipe before the last slice disappears!

Carrot Cake Cheesecake Recipe – Easy Holiday Dessert Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 22 reviews

Author: lina

Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Carrot Cake Cheesecake combines the moist, spiced goodness of a classic carrot cake with a creamy, rich cheesecake layer to create an irresistible holiday dessert. Perfect for special occasions, this dessert features warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors, tender shredded carrots, and a luscious cheesecake topping, all baked together to achieve a harmonious, indulgent treat.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and, for easier removal, optionally line the bottom with parchment paper.

Prepare Carrot Cake Layer: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs with both sugars, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, then fold in the shredded carrots and optional chopped nuts. Pour this batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface evenly.
Make Cheesecake Layer: In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sugar and flour, mixing well to combine. Beat in vanilla extract followed by the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated. Finally, stir in the sour cream until the mixture is smooth. Gently pour this cheesecake batter over the carrot cake layer in the pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center of the cheesecake layer is just set but still has a slight jiggle. Once done, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cake cool inside for 30 minutes to prevent cracking.

Cool and Chill: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Afterward, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to fully set and develop flavors.
Serve: Serve the carrot cake cheesecake chilled or at slightly room temperature. For an elegant touch, garnish with whipped cream, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of cream cheese glaze according to your preference.

Notes

Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth cheesecake batter.

Do not overmix the batter once the dry and wet ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender.
Using parchment paper at the bottom of the springform pan helps with easy removal without damage.
Chilling the cake overnight enhances flavor and texture, making slicing cleaner.

Feel free to omit nuts if you prefer a nut-free version.
The slight jiggle in the cheesecake center indicates it is perfectly baked; it will set as it cools.
For an extra tangy cheesecake, increase sour cream to 1/3 cup (80ml).

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Dessert

Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)

Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 30 g
Sodium: 240 mg

Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Unsaturated Fat: 15 g

Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 34 g
Fiber: 2 g

Protein: 6 g
Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: carrot cake, cheesecake, holiday dessert, spiced cake, creamy cheesecake layer, easy layered dessert