Ingredients
- 1 box carrot cake mix plus ingredients called for on the package
- 1/2 cup golden raisins Optional
- 14 ounce sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1 tsp cinnamon
For the frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup butter softened
- 1/2 tsp salt omit if using salted butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar sifted
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup walnuts for garnish
Method
- Prepare the cake mix according to the package directions, adding ½ cup golden raisins to the batter if desired. Bake as directed.
- Let the cake cool for 15 minutes.
- Poke it: Using the back of a wooden spoon or a straw, poke holes in the cake about 1 inch apart.
- Make the filling: In a bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, caramel sauce, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Carefully pour the mixture into the holes, ensuring it soaks into the cake.
- You may have some filling left over, and that's ok. Fill all of the holes, but don't overly saturate the cake with the filling.
- Cover and refrigerate for 1–2 hours to allow the cake to set.
- Make the frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese with an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and 2 cups powdered sugar, mixing on medium-low speed until smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then add the remaining powdered sugar. Continue mixing until well combined and creamy.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the chilled cake.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the frosting to set.
- Toast the walnuts: In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the walnuts for 2–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Chop the toasted walnuts and sprinkle them over the cake right before serving.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy! Refrigerate any leftovers.
