15 Southern Living Recipe For Carrot Cake Unlock Flavor Sensations!
Published on: Mar 5, 2024
The Southern Living recipe for carrot cake has been a staple in many homes and kitchens for decades. With its moist and flavorful layers of cake, rich cream cheese frosting, and a hint of spice, it's no wonder this dessert has stood the test of time. But what makes this recipe so special? Let's dive deeper into the ingredients and techniques used to create this beloved Southern treat.
Main Ingredients: Water, Salt, Quaker Quick Grits, Cream Cheese, Crushed
Spice up your beer can chicken with this Southern Living recipe for Jalapeno Cheese Grits. The creamy and cheesy grits add the perfect kick to the tender and juicy chicken. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.
2of 40
A Southern Living Preview
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts, Kosher Salt, Freshly Ground Black
Get a taste of the South with this delicious beer can chicken recipe from Southern Living. With a blend of flavorful herbs and spices, this chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
3of 40
Chocolate-Bourbon Pecan Pie Southern Living
Main Ingredients: Refrigerated Piecrusts, Toasted Pecans, Semisweet
If you're a fan of sweet and savory flavors, then this beer can chicken recipe is for you. The combination of chocolate, bourbon, and pecan pie is a winning trio that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
4of 40
Super Bowl Appetizer's - Everyday Southern Living
Main Ingredients: Cheese, Sharp White Cheddar, Gouda, Evaporated Milk
Impress your friends at your next Super Bowl party with this beer can chicken appetizer from Southern Living. The tender and flavorful chicken is perfect for snacking on while watching the big game.
5of 40
Perfect Mashed Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Yukon Gold Potatoes, Salt, Butter, Half And Half, Cream
No beer can chicken meal is complete without a side of creamy mashed potatoes. This recipe takes the classic side dish to the next level with the addition of garlic and chives. Your taste buds will be in heaven.
6of 40
Easy Peach Cobbler
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, All Purpose Flour, Sugar, Baking
End your beer can chicken meal on a sweet note with this easy peach cobbler recipe. The combination of sweet peaches and a buttery crust will have everyone asking for seconds.
7of 40
Classic Chocolate Pound Cake
Main Ingredients: Salted Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Baking
Take your beer can chicken meal to the next level with this classic chocolate pound cake. The rich and decadent cake is the perfect dessert to complement the savory flavors of the chicken.
8of 40
Southern Living Chunky Apple Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Sugar, Large Eggs, Vanilla Extract, All Purpose
This Southern Living recipe for chunky apple cake is the perfect dessert to serve with your beer can chicken. The combination of cinnamon, apples, and nuts creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
9of 40
Million Dollar Pound Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Sugar, Large Eggs, All Purpose Flour, Milk
Indulge in a slice of this million dollar pound cake to end your beer can chicken meal on a high note. The rich and buttery flavor of this cake will have you feeling like a million bucks.
10of 40
Martina McBride's Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, Kosher Salt, Black
Warm up on a chilly day with this creamy chicken tortilla soup from Martina McBride. The spicy and savory flavors of this soup are the perfect pairing for your beer can chicken.
11of 40
Fire Crackers
Main Ingredients: Saltine Crackers, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Black
Add some heat to your beer can chicken meal with these fire crackers. These spicy and crunchy snacks are the perfect side dish to complement the tender and juicy chicken.
12of 40
Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs, Smoked
Spice up your beer can chicken meal with this Cajun-inspired jambalaya recipe. The blend of chicken, sausage, and flavorful spices creates a hearty and delicious meal.
13of 40
Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Elbow Macaroni, Milk, Butter, All Purpose Flour, Salt
No beer can chicken meal is complete without a side of classic baked macaroni and cheese. Cheesy, creamy, and oh-so-comforting, this dish is a crowd favorite and the perfect pairing for your chicken.
14of 40
Non-Alcoholic Margarita Mocktail
Main Ingredients: Limeade, Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice, Fresh Lime Juice
Sip on this refreshing non-alcoholic margarita mocktail while enjoying your beer can chicken. The citrusy and tangy flavors of this drink will complement the savory flavors of the chicken perfectly.
15of 40
One-pan Pasta With Chicken Sausage, Mushrooms, and...
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chicken Sausage, Cremini Mushrooms, Unsalted
If you're looking for a quick and easy meal to serve with your beer can chicken, this one-pan pasta recipe is the answer. The combination of chicken sausage, mushrooms, and herbs creates a flavorful and satisfying dish.
16of 40
Turkey Panini
Main Ingredients: Pepper Jelly, White Bread Slices, Roast Turkey, Kosher
Take your beer can chicken leftovers to the next level with this delicious turkey panini recipe. The crispy bread, melted cheese, and tender chicken make for a tasty and satisfying sandwich.
17of 40
Jocelyn Delk Adams' Sour Cream Pound Cake
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Granulated Sugar, Eggs, Cake Flour
Treat yourself to a slice of this sour cream pound cake for dessert after your beer can chicken meal. The moist and rich flavor of this cake is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
18of 40
Sock It To Me Cake
Main Ingredients: Baking Spray, Salted Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large
Add a touch of Southern charm to your beer can chicken meal with this sock it to me cake recipe. The perfect combination of vanilla, cinnamon, and pecans creates a delicious and irresistible cake.
19of 40
Chicken Bog
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Yellow Onion, Carrots, Chopped Garlic
This traditional Southern dish is the perfect side to serve with your beer can chicken. The blend of rice, chicken, and flavorful spices creates a hearty and delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
20of 40
Whipping Cream Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Sugar, Eggs, Flour, Whipping Cream, Vanilla
End your beer can chicken meal on a sweet note with this whipping cream cake. The light and fluffy texture of this cake paired with fresh fruit and whipped cream makes for a delicious and refreshing dessert.
21of 40
Jalapeno Cheese Grits (Southern Living)
Main Ingredients: Water, Salt, Quaker Quick Grits, Cream Cheese, Crushed
Spice up your beer can chicken with this delicious side dish from Southern Living. These jalapeno cheese grits are the perfect accompaniment to the smoky, juicy flavors of the chicken. The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy, cheesy grits is sure to be a hit at your next cookout or family dinner.
22of 40
A Southern Living Preview
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts, Kosher Salt, Freshly Ground Black
For a true taste of the South, try this beer can chicken recipe from Southern Living. This popular magazine is known for its delicious and easy-to-follow recipes, and this one is no exception. The unique method of cooking the chicken on a beer can infuses it with flavor and keeps it incredibly moist and tender.
23of 40
Chocolate-Bourbon Pecan Pie Southern Living
Main Ingredients: Refrigerated Piecrusts, Toasted Pecans, Semisweet
Indulge your sweet tooth with this decadent dessert recipe from Southern Living. This chocolate-bourbon pecan pie is a rich and delicious twist on the classic pecan pie. The addition of chocolate and bourbon adds depth of flavor and elevates this dessert to a whole new level.
24of 40
Super Bowl Appetizer's - Everyday Southern Living
Main Ingredients: Cheese, Sharp White Cheddar, Gouda, Evaporated Milk
Hosting a Super Bowl party? Impress your guests with these mouth-watering beer can chicken appetizers from Everyday Southern Living. These bite-sized treats are perfect for game day and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these tasty appetizers in no time.
25of 40
Perfect Mashed Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Yukon Gold Potatoes, Salt, Butter, Half And Half, Cream
No beer can chicken dinner is complete without a side of creamy mashed potatoes. This recipe from Southern Living will guide you to making the perfect mashed potatoes every time. Adding a touch of butter and garlic takes these mashed potatoes to the next level of deliciousness.
26of 40
Easy Peach Cobbler
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, All Purpose Flour, Sugar, Baking
End your beer can chicken meal with a classic Southern dessert – peach cobbler. This easy recipe from Southern Living only requires a few ingredients and can be made in under an hour. The warm, gooey peach filling topped with a flaky crust is a match made in heaven with the smoky flavors of the chicken.
27of 40
Classic Chocolate Pound Cake
Main Ingredients: Salted Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Baking
For a simple and delicious dessert, try this classic chocolate pound cake from Southern Living. This rich and moist cake is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect ending to your beer can chicken feast.
28of 40
Southern Living Chunky Apple Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Sugar, Large Eggs, Vanilla Extract, All Purpose
If you're a fan of apple desserts, you'll love this recipe from Southern Living. This chunky apple cake is loaded with juicy apples and topped with a buttery streusel topping. It's the perfect way to end a meal of beer can chicken and will leave your house smelling like a cozy bakery.
29of 40
Million Dollar Pound Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Sugar, Large Eggs, All Purpose Flour, Milk
For a truly indulgent dessert, try this million dollar pound cake recipe from Southern Living. This rich and buttery cake is a Southern favorite and is sure to impress your guests. Serve it with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream for a touch of freshness.
30of 40
Martina McBride's Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, Kosher Salt, Black
Change up your beer can chicken game with this delicious soup recipe from country superstar Martina McBride. This creamy chicken tortilla soup is packed with flavor and is perfect for chilly nights. The addition of cilantro and avocado gives it a fresh and zesty twist.
31of 40
Fire Crackers
Main Ingredients: Saltine Crackers, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Black
These spicy crackers from Southern Living are the perfect snack for any occasion. Sprinkled with a flavorful blend of ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes, these crackers pack a punch of flavor. Serve them as an appetizer while you wait for your beer can chicken to cook.
32of 40
Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Elbow Macaroni, Milk, Butter, All Purpose Flour, Salt
No Southern meal is complete without a side of macaroni and cheese. This classic recipe from Southern Living is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and is the perfect accompaniment to beer can chicken. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting, this mac and cheese is a must-try.
33of 40
Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs, Smoked
Add some Louisiana flair to your beer can chicken dinner with this jambalaya recipe from Southern Living. Packed with andouille sausage, chicken, and spicy seasonings, this dish is full of bold flavors. Serve it over rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
34of 40
Non-Alcoholic Margarita Mocktail
Main Ingredients: Limeade, Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice, Fresh Lime Juice
For those who prefer a non-alcoholic beverage, this margarita mocktail from Southern Living is a refreshing and tasty option. Made with limeade concentrate and sparkling water, this mocktail has all the flavors of a margarita without the alcohol. It's the perfect accompaniment to a spicy beer can chicken.
35of 40
One-pan Pasta With Chicken Sausage, Mushrooms, and...
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chicken Sausage, Cremini Mushrooms, Unsalted
This one-pan pasta dish from Southern Living is a game-changer for busy weeknights. The combination of chicken sausage, mushrooms, and spinach makes for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Plus, the easy cleanup makes it a winner in our book.
36of 40
Turkey Panini
Main Ingredients: Pepper Jelly, White Bread Slices, Roast Turkey, Kosher
Switch things up with this tasty turkey panini recipe from Southern Living. Packed with smoked turkey, prosciutto, and provolone cheese, this sandwich is the perfect combination of salty and savory. Serve it with a side of sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
37of 40
Jocelyn Delk Adams' Sour Cream Pound Cake
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Granulated Sugar, Eggs, Cake Flour
Indulge in this rich and moist sour cream pound cake from Southern Living. This recipe from food blogger Jocelyn Delk Adams is a Southern favorite and is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
38of 40
Sock It To Me Cake
Main Ingredients: Baking Spray, Salted Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large
This classic Southern cake from Southern Living is a must-try for any beer can chicken dinner. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pecans in the batter gives this cake a unique and delicious flavor. Top it with a cream cheese frosting for the perfect finishing touch.
39of 40
Chicken Bog
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Yellow Onion, Carrots, Chopped Garlic
This hearty and flavorful chicken bog recipe from Southern Living is a traditional dish from the South Carolina Lowcountry. Made with chicken, rice, and sausage, this one-pot meal is perfect for feeding a crowd. Serve it with some crusty bread for sopping up all the delicious juices.
40of 40
Whipping Cream Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Sugar, Eggs, Flour, Whipping Cream, Vanilla
For a light and fluffy dessert, try this whipping cream cake from Southern Living. This simple and delicious recipe is a staple in Southern homes and is sure to become a favorite in yours. The addition of whipped cream in the batter makes for a moist and tender cake.
The Perfect Carrots
Ingredient Spotlight: Carrots
One of the key elements in the Southern Living recipe for carrot cake is, of course, the carrots. But not just any carrots will do. The recipe calls for fresh, grated carrots, which not only add a slight crunch to the cake but also provide moisture and natural sweetness. Make sure to use organic carrots for the best flavor and texture.
Grating vs. Shredding
While some recipes may call for shredded carrots, the Southern Living recipe specifically calls for grated carrots. This may seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference in the final result. Grated carrots are smaller and finer, which allows them to incorporate more evenly into the batter and create a more moist and tender cake.
The Spice Factor
Ingredient Spotlight: Spices
The Southern Living recipe for carrot cake includes a blend of warm spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. These spices not only add depth and complexity to the flavor but also pair perfectly with the sweetness of the carrots. Make sure to use freshly ground spices for the best taste.
Sifting and Blending
To ensure that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the cake, the recipe calls for sifting them together with the dry ingredients. This step helps to break up any clumps and ensures that each bite has the perfect balance of spices.
The Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredient Spotlight: Cream Cheese
No carrot cake is complete without a generous layer of cream cheese frosting. The Southern Living recipe uses cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar to create a rich and creamy frosting that pairs perfectly with the cake's flavors. It's important to use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor.
Room Temperature Ingredients
For the frosting to reach the perfect consistency, it's essential to use room temperature ingredients. This allows the cream cheese and butter to blend together smoothly without any lumps. Make sure to take them out of the fridge at least an hour before you plan to make the frosting.
With its perfect balance of ingredients and techniques, it's no wonder the Southern Living recipe for carrot cake continues to be a favorite among bakers and dessert lovers alike. Try it out for yourself and taste the deliciousness of Southern living in every bite.