When I think about comfort desserts from my childhood, the first thing that comes to mind is a warm slice of brazilian carrot cake topped with a thick, glossy brigadeiro frosting. This isn’t your typical carrot cake recipe with nuts, raisins, or cream cheese icing — it’s something simpler, sweeter, and filled with memories of birthdays, Sunday lunches, and rainy afternoons in Brazil.

Now that I live in the U.S., I’ve realized how different the American and Brazilian versions of carrot cake truly are. And honestly, that difference is what makes this one so special — an easy carrot cake recipe that blends nostalgia and flavor in every bite.

Brazilian vs. American Carrot Cake: A Sweet Comparison

At first glance, both cakes share the same idea: carrots blended into a soft, moist batter. But when you take a bite, you can instantly tell how unique the brazilian carrot cake really is.

In the U.S., the classic carrot cake recipe is usually filled with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, crushed pineapple, and sometimes shredded coconut or nuts. It’s dense, earthy, and perfectly complemented by its tangy cream cheese frosting.

The Brazilian version, however, is a completely different story. It’s smooth, light, and naturally sweet. Instead of grated carrots, we blend them into the batter with oil, sugar, and eggs — creating a bright orange cake that’s airy yet moist. And instead of cream cheese frosting, we top it with our beloved brigadeiro — a silky chocolate glaze made from sweetened condensed milk, cocoa, and butter.

The result? A simple carrot cake recipe that looks cheerful and tastes like a hug from home.

Why This Is the Best Carrot Cake Recipe

I’ve tried many versions of this cake — from family gatherings in Brazil to potlucks here in Texas — and this one always wins hearts. What makes it the best carrot cake recipe is its balance: sweet but not overwhelming, rich but not heavy.

The brigadeiro frosting adds just the right amount of indulgence, forming a shiny chocolate layer that cracks slightly when you cut into it. Meanwhile, the carrot base stays tender for days, even after being refrigerated.

And the best part? This easy carrot cake recipe doesn’t require fancy mixers or complicated steps. Everything goes into the blender, making it the perfect choice for beginners or anyone looking for a fail-proof dessert that still feels homemade.

Ingredients for a Simple Carrot Cake Recipe

For the Cake

• 3 medium carrots (peeled and chopped)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup of vegetable oil
• 2 cups of sugar
• 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon of baking powder
• A pinch of salt

For the Brigadeiro Frosting

• 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon of butter
• Chocolate sprinkles (optional, for decoration)

What makes this a simple carrot cake recipe is the straightforward ingredient list and the fact that you can find everything at your local grocery store. The carrots are the star — make sure they’re fresh and sweet, as they’ll define the cake’s color and flavor.

Product Suggestions for Perfect Brigadeiro

To achieve the authentic taste and texture of brigadeiro, the quality of the ingredients makes a big difference. Here are some recommended products:

1. Sweetened Condensed Milk: Use a trusted brand like Nestlé La Lechera or Moça (popular in Brazil) for a smooth and creamy base.
2. Cocoa Powder: If you prefer a less sweet flavor, opt for Hershey’s Natural Cocoa. For a sweeter touch, try Toddy Original Brazilian Chocolate, available on Amazon.
3. Butter: Choose high-quality unsalted butter for a silky brigadeiro, like Kerrygold or Plugrá.
4. Chocolate Sprinkles: For an authentic Brazilian touch, use sprinkles labeled as “chocolate vermicelli” or try Callebaut Chocolate Sprinkles for premium quality.

Instructions for Carrot Cake Recipe

Making the Carrot Cake Recipe

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan or a rectangular baking pan.
2. In a blender, combine the carrots, eggs, oil, and sugar. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the carrot mixture into a large bowl. Gradually sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing gently until the batter is smooth. Avoid overmixing.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

The texture should come out smooth and bright orange before it goes into the oven. Once baked, it’ll have that signature golden crust that pairs perfectly with the thick chocolate topping.

This is an easy carrot cake recipe that even kids can help with. My younger son loves to watch the bright orange batter swirl in the blender, and it’s always a fun way to bring a piece of Brazil to our home here in Texas.

Making the Brigadeiro Frosting

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
2. After 10-12 minutes, the mixture will thicken and pull away from the sides of the pan. If you prefer a pourable frosting, stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
3. Let the brigadeiro frosting cool slightly before spreading it over the cake.

When you pour the brigadeiro frosting on top, make sure the cake is still slightly warm. That way, it soaks in just enough chocolate to make every bite irresistible.

Turn It Into a Carrot Cake Birthday Cake

If you grew up in Brazil, chances are you’ve seen a carrot cake birthday cake covered in chocolate sprinkles at some point — it’s a classic at children’s parties.

This recipe works beautifully for birthdays or celebrations. Just bake it in a round pan, add extra brigadeiro frosting, and top it with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or even fresh strawberries for a festive touch.

The texture of this brazilian carrot cake makes it ideal for layering too. You can easily double the recipe and stack two layers with more brigadeiro in the middle. Simple, elegant, and utterly delicious — it’s a carrot cake birthday cake that everyone will talk about.

Brigadeiro is more than a dessert in Brazil—it’s a cultural icon. Its creamy texture and rich chocolate flavor make it a perfect match for the sweetness of the carrot cake. Together, they create a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent.

From Brazil to Texas: A Cake That Travels Well

One of the things I love about this brazilian carrot cake is how it carries a piece of home wherever I go. When I first baked it for my American friends, they were surprised — “This is carrot cake?” they asked. And after the first bite, they all wanted the recipe.

It’s lighter than most American versions, easier to make, and the brigadeiro frosting gives it a chocolate flavor that’s impossible to resist. It’s proof that sometimes the best carrot cake recipe is the one that reminds you of who you are and where you came from.

Tips and Variations

• Make it extra chocolate: Double the brigadeiro and drizzle half over each slice right before serving.
• For a party version: Add colorful sprinkles on top — it instantly turns into a carrot cake birthday cake.
• Healthier swap: Replace part of the sugar with honey or brown sugar for a richer flavor.
• Storage tip: Keep it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 5. The texture stays perfect.

Final Thoughts

This brazilian carrot cake isn’t just dessert — it’s a piece of my story. Every time I bake it, I remember birthdays at my grandmother’s house, the smell of chocolate filling the kitchen, and that first warm bite after school.

Now, it’s part of my American routine too — shared at potlucks, school events, or simply for an afternoon coffee break. Whether you’re searching for a simple carrot cake recipe to make during the week, an easy carrot cake recipe for guests, or the best carrot cake recipe for a celebration, this version with brigadeiro frosting will never disappoint.

Sweet, simple, and full of memories — that’s what makes this brazilian carrot cake truly special.

Love recipes with a Brazilian twist? Try our Brazilian Cornmeal Cake (Bolo de fubá).