DARK CHOCOLATE CARROT CAKE

Dark Chocolate Carrot Cake image

Carrot cake has a dark side-and it's divine! Cream cheese and shredded carrots in the batter keep the cake moist, while toasted nuts and cinnamon boost the flavor. -Darlene Brenden, Salem, Oregon

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 45m

Yield 16 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

1 package dark chocolate cake mix (regular size)
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 package (3.9 ounces) instant chocolate pudding mix
1 cup 2% milk
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 cups shredded carrots
1 cup chopped walnuts, toasted, divided
2 cans (16 ounces each) cream cheese frosting

Steps:

In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, cream cheese, pudding mix, milk, eggs and cinnamon; beat on low speed for 30 seconds. Beat on medium for 2 minutes. Stir in carrots and 1/2 cup walnuts. Pour into three greased and floured 8-in. round baking pans., Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely., Spread frosting between layers and over top and sides of cake. Sprinkle top with remaining walnuts. Store in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 504 calories, Fat 24g fat (8g saturated fat), Cholesterol 49mg cholesterol, Sodium 570mg sodium, Carbohydrate 71g carbohydrate (52g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 5g protein.