Description
A moist and flavorful carrot cake made with grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and a creamy homemade cream cheese frosting. This classic dessert combines warm spices and a tender crumb, perfect for any celebration or a delicious treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Ingredients
- 1¼ cups unsweetened applesauce (or vegetable oil)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 can (8.25 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
Frosting Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 lb powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce (or vegetable oil) and granulated sugar until well combined for a smooth base.
- Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- Incorporate Dry into Wet: Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring just until everything is combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in Mix-ins: Gently fold in the grated carrots, shredded coconut, chopped nuts (if using), vanilla extract, and undrained crushed pineapple.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
- Add Flavor: Mix in the vanilla extract until evenly incorporated.
- Add Sugar: Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting over the top.
- Top and Frost: Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
- Decorate: Garnish with additional chopped nuts or shredded coconut if desired.
- Serve or Store: Serve the cake immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Using applesauce instead of oil reduces fat and adds moisture.
- Ensure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
- Chopped nuts are optional but add nice texture; walnuts or pecans work well.
- Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Allow refrigerated cake to come to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
