Dump and Bake Carrot Cake

This dump and bake carrot cake is the easiest way to make a soft, ultra-moist carrot cake using one bowl and simple pantry ingredients—no mixer, no complicated steps, and perfect for Easter, spring gatherings, or an easy weeknight dessert. If you’ve been searching for a moist carrot cake recipe that’s quick, foolproof, and packed with warm cinnamon flavor, this is the one you’ll come back to again and again.

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What makes this recipe so special is how incredibly simple it is without sacrificing that classic homemade taste. You literally dump everything into one bowl, mix, and bake—and somehow it still turns out soft, fluffy, and perfectly spiced every single time. It’s the kind of recipe that feels almost too easy to be this good, but it never disappoints.

As a busy mom, these are the desserts I rely on the most—the ones that feel a little extra special but don’t require a ton of time or effort. Whether you’re making this for Easter brunch, a spring get-together, or just because you’re craving something cozy and homemade, this carrot cake delivers every time.

And then there’s the frosting… because let’s be honest, carrot cake isn’t complete without that rich, creamy, slightly tangy cream cheese frosting layered on top. It balances the sweetness perfectly and takes this simple dump and bake cake to the next level.

The best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can keep it classic, or you can customize it with crushed pineapple for extra moisture, chopped pecans for crunch, or even coconut for a little texture. No matter how you make it, this is one of those easy carrot cake recipes that always turns out bakery-worthy with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Dump and Bake Carrot Cake

• Only 4 main ingredients – Minimal effort with maximum flavor
• No mixing required – Dump everything right into the pan
• Ultra moist texture – Pineapple and condensed milk make it soft and rich
• Perfect for Easter or spring – A seasonal dessert that feels festive but easy
• Crowd favorite – Everyone will ask you for this recipe

Ingredients You Need

For the Carrot Cake:

• Shredded carrots – The base of the cake that adds natural sweetness, moisture, and that classic carrot cake texture
• Crushed pineapple (with juice) – This is the secret to making the cake ultra moist and slightly sweet while helping everything bake together perfectly
• Sweetened condensed milk – Adds richness, creaminess, and creates that soft, almost gooey texture as it bakes into the cake
• Spice cake mix – Brings all the warm flavors like cinnamon and spice without needing multiple ingredients, making this recipe incredibly easy
• Butter, sliced – Melts over the top while baking to help the cake mix cook evenly and creates a golden, slightly crisp finish

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• Cream cheese – Gives the frosting that classic tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with carrot cake
• Butter – Adds richness and helps create a smooth, creamy texture
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting while keeping it light and fluffy
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor and adds a warm, bakery-style finishOptional Toppings: Melted cream cheese frosting (for drizzling) and pecans

You can tweak this recipe to include or omit the pineapples, pecans, or icing!

How to Make Dump and Bake Carrot Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Add the shredded carrots evenly to the bottom of the baking dish.
3. Pour the crushed pineapple (with all of the juice) over the carrots and spread it out evenly.
4. Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the pineapple layer.
5. Sprinkle the dry spice cake mix evenly over the entire surface—do not stir.
6. Place the sliced butter evenly across the top, covering as much of the cake mix as possible.
7. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
8. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely before adding frosting.

How to Make Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a large bowl, add the softened cream cheese and butter.
2. Beat together until smooth and creamy with no lumps.
3. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
4. Mix until the frosting is light, fluffy, and fully combined.

Here’s a Quick Video Tutorial!

Tips & Variations

• Do not mix the layers – This is key for achieving that signature dump cake texture
• Spread butter evenly – Prevents dry spots and helps everything bake properly
• Add chopped pecans or walnuts – Gives it that classic carrot cake crunch
• Chill before serving – Makes it easier to slice and enhances the texture
• Add coconut or raisins – For a more traditional carrot cake flavor

Storage, Make-Ahead & Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate covered – Keeps fresh for up to 4 days
• Make ahead – Bake in advance and frost before serving
• Serve chilled or room temp – Both work depending on preference
• Freeze slices – Store up to 2 months

FAQ

Do you mix dump and bake carrot cake?

No, this recipe is designed to be layered instead of mixed. As it bakes, the ingredients combine naturally to create a soft, moist texture.

Can I use carrot cake mix instead of spice cake mix?

Yes, carrot cake mix works great and will enhance the carrot flavor even more while still keeping the recipe easy.

Why is my dump cake dry?

Dry spots usually happen when the butter isn’t evenly distributed across the cake mix. Make sure to cover as much of the surface as possible.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. This cake actually tastes even better the next day because the flavors have more time to develop.

Can I skip the frosting?

You can, but the cream cheese frosting adds the classic carrot cake flavor and balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly.

More Amazing Recipes!

We hope this Dump and Cake Carrot Cake was a hit for you! For more delicious Easter Cakes, be sure to check out our awesome Carrot Poke Cake, adorable Dirt Cake, or this easy No-Bake Dirt Cake Casserole. Happy Easter, friends!