Description
A moist, flavorful carrot cake infused with crushed pineapple, topped with creamy cream cheese frosting for a tropical twist.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups (220g) grated carrots
- 1 cup (200g) crushed pineapple, drained
- ½ cup (50g) chopped walnuts (optional)
- 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened (for frosting)
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 1 tablespoon pineapple juice (optional, for extra flavor in frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9‑inch cake pans (or line with parchment paper).
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add grated carrots and crushed pineapple, stirring until well combined.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in chopped walnuts if using.
- Divide the batter between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30‑35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- To make the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract and pineapple juice (if using) for extra flavor.
- Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread with frosting. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides. Garnish with chopped walnuts or pineapple slices for decoration.
Notes
- Use freshly grated carrots – pre‑shredded store‑bought carrots are too dry.
- Drain the pineapple well – too much liquid can make the cake dense.
- Don’t overmix the batter – stir just until combined for a light, fluffy cake.
- Chill the frosting – refrigerate for 15 minutes before frosting for a firmer consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (of 12)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 6g
