Description
A moist and flavorful carrot cake with a tropical twist from sweet crushed pineapple and warm cinnamon, finished with a rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or an everyday homemade dessert.
Ingredients
2 cups finely grated carrots
1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Cream cheese frosting, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Stir in the grated carrots and well-drained crushed pineapple until evenly combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the chopped walnuts if using.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Frost with cream cheese frosting, decorate as desired, and serve.
Notes
Add shredded coconut for extra tropical flavor.
Substitute chopped pecans for walnuts if preferred.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger for additional warmth.
Orange zest can be added to the batter or frosting for a citrus twist.
Garnish with toasted coconut flakes or fresh pineapple pieces.
Store frosted cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freeze individual slices for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 31 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg