How Many People Does a 12 Layer Cake Feed?

A 12 Layer Carrot Cake , especially when baked in a 12-inch round pan, can generously serve 50 to 56 people . For events or weddings, smaller slices can stretch the count to around 60 servings. This makes it an ideal centerpiece for large gatherings and celebrations.

What Is the Secret Ingredient in Carrot Cake?

The secret ingredient often depends on the baker, but top contenders include buttermilk , crushed pineapple , and applesauce . These elements increase moisture, balance the spice, and enhance texture. Some modern twists even incorporate maple syrup or orange zest for an added flavor punch in a 12 Layer Carrot Cake .

Why Is It Called Divorce Carrot Cake?

The term “Divorce Carrot Cake” gained popularity from a heartfelt viral story. It involved a woman who continued baking her ex-husband’s favorite carrot cake—rich, spiced, and layered with love—long after their separation. The cake became a symbol of shared memories and family tradition, even after divorce. Today, it affectionately refers to an ultra-moist, unforgettable carrot cake that people just can’t quit—kind of like an old flame.

How Long to Bake a 12 Inch Cake?

For a 12-inch carrot cake , baking time varies depending on layer thickness: Thin Layers (individual) : 18–22 minutes per layer at 350°F (175°C) Thicker Layers (to slice later) : 40–50 minutes total at the same temperature Always use the toothpick test in the center to check for doneness, and allow layers to cool completely before stacking.

How Many Slices Are in a 12 Inch Cake?

A 12-inch cake typically yields: 36 to 40 slices for dessert-size portions 48 to 56 slices for event-size portions If you’re serving a 12 Layer Carrot Cake , its height allows for thinner, elegant slices that are still satisfying thanks to the stacked richness of frosting and flavor.

12 Layer Carrot Cake – The Best Moist & Flavorful Recipe

Ingredients

4 cups finely grated fresh carrots
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp ground ginger
¼ tsp ground cloves (optional)
¼ tsp allspice (optional)
½ tsp salt
1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained
1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
½ cup raisins (optional)
1 ½ cups brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
½ cup applesauce
½ cup buttermilk
4 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange (optional)
For Frosting: 16 oz cream cheese, 1 cup unsalted butter, 4 cups powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional for tang)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line multiple 9- or 12-inch pans with parchment paper.
Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt in a large bowl.
In another bowl, beat together brown sugar, granulated sugar, oil, applesauce, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet until just combined.
Fold in grated carrots, pineapple, orange zest, nuts, and raisins.
Weigh and divide the batter into 12 equal parts for uniform layers.
Bake each layer for 18–22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack.
To make the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter separately until smooth, then combine with powdered sugar, vanilla, and optional sour cream.
Level each cake layer with a serrated knife if necessary.
Stack the layers, adding frosting between each and applying a crumb coat to seal in crumbs.
Chill for 30 minutes, then apply a final thick layer of frosting.
Decorate with candied carrots, toasted nuts, edible flowers, or a drizzle of caramel if desired.

Notes

Store cake in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving. Can be frozen whole or in slices. Use fresh ingredients for best texture and flavor.

Author: Easy Meals
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 4 hours (baking in batches)
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 520
Sugar: 38g
Sodium: 360mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 58g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: carrot cake, 12 layer cake, cream cheese frosting, dessert, special occasion