Description
This To Die For Carrot Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert made with applesauce, crushed pineapple, and coconut, topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting. A beloved family recipe, it's perfect for celebrations or any time you crave a delicious treat.
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups unsweetened applesauce or oil
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (with juice)
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pound powdered sugar
- Toasted pecans or coconut for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix applesauce (or oil), sugar, and eggs.
- Add flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Stir to combine.
- Fold in carrots, coconut, nuts (if using), vanilla, and pineapple with juice.
- Pour into greased 9x13-inch, two 9-inch, or three 8-inch pans. Line with parchment if desired.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes (9x13 and 9-inch pans) or 25-30 minutes (8-inch pans), until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
- For frosting, beat butter and cream cheese until fluffy.
- Add vanilla and gradually mix in powdered sugar until smooth.
- Frost cake layers, then sides, and top with pecans or coconut if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute oil for applesauce for a richer texture.
- Omit coconut if preferred—cake remains moist and flavorful.
- Add golden raisins for extra texture.
- Convert to cupcakes by baking 18-22 minutes at 350°F.
- Wrap tightly and freeze slices for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
