Without a doubt, carrot cake is one of the most popular cake flavors in the U.S., probably due to its sweetness and quick-bread consistency. It’s also a cake that has a long history, although historians disagree on exactly where those origins began. Regardless, this cake is still worthy of having its own holiday, and fortunately, it does. National Carrot Cake Day is a holiday that falls on February 3rd every year and gives this delicious cake the respect it deserves.

The History of Carrot Cake

Sadly, we were unable to uncover the history behind National Carrot Cake Day, as it has seemingly been lost to the mists of time. What we did uncover, however, was the history of carrot cake—although it should be said that historians don’t always agree on who invented carrot cake or where it was invented.

It can be hard to pin down the origins of carrot cake because people have been making cakes for thousands of years. Even the name “cake” comes from the Old Norse word “kaka.” That’s why it’s hard for historians to pin down the exact origins of many cakes—especially if they’ve been around for a while.

Most likely, carrot cakes evolved from some of the carrot puddings that were popular during the medieval period. Carrot pudding recipes go back to at least the 10th century, but recipes for carrot cake only go back as far as the 19th century. However, it is believed that George Washington was served a slice of carrot cake on British Evacuation Day at Fraunces Tavern in Manhattan on November 25, 1783. The recipe for this carrot cake wasn’t written down, but some modern cookbook authors have recreated the most likely recipe that may have been used for the cake.

Tasty Facts About Carrot Cake

Below are some fascinating facts about carrot cake that people might want to check out when they’re celebrating this holiday.

• Carrot cake is denser than most cakes.
• Carrot cake is one of the more popular cakes in both the U.S. and the U.K.
• Carrot cakes are usually topped with cream cheese icing.
• The modern popularity of carrot cake can be traced back to diet fads in the 1970s.

Observing National Carrot Cake Day

Observing this holiday is pretty easy for anyone who wants to celebrate it. All that has to be done is for the person to secure their favorite type of carrot cake. This can be a cake they make themselves or a cake that they purchase in a store or bakery. It doesn’t matter. All that matters is that carrot cake is enjoyed on this humble holiday.

While this holiday is being celebrated, it’s also a good idea for people to use the hashtag #NationalCarrotCakeDay on their social media accounts. That will not only announce their participation in this holiday but will also entice other people to celebrate it. And in our opinion, the more people eating carrot cake, the better.