A slice might not boost your eyesight, but once spring has sprung, no dessert can top this sweet and spice classic.
1. Mom’s Carrot Cake from Fundamental DTLA
Inspired by her mother’s recipe, pastry chef Beth Kellerhals serves up a supermoist, sheet cake variation garnished with orange cream cheese frosting and candied pecans. Available daily, it’s the perfect afternoon pick-me-up with a cup of coffee. 750 S. Grand Ave., downtown
2. Walnut Carrot Cake from Gjusta
With so many pastries lining the display case at this chic Venice deli, carrot cake might seem like a middling choice. But there’s a reason Gjusta’s simple, straightforward take—filled with a thick layer of not-too-cloying cream cheese—has converted countless skeptics. 320 Sunset Ave., Venice
3. Carrot Raisin Cake from the Larder at Burton Way
Decorated with tiny marzipan carrots, the version at Suzanne Goin’s casual café is as cute as it is tasty. Plump golden raisins are folded into the fluffy cake, while a pebbly coating of crushed walnuts provides a slight crunch to the swirled frosting. 8500 Burton Way, Beverly Grove
4. Nutella Carrot Cake from Angelini Osteria
One of the few departures from chef Gino Angelini’s traditionalist menu, this Italian-adjacent dessert involves a spiced carrot torte sliced in half and spread with a layer of chocolaty Nutella. If that’s not enough flair, a scoop of house-made vanilla gelato slowly melts alongside. 7313 Beverly Blvd., Fairfax
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