Ingredients
- For the cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups finely grated carrots
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- For the cream cheese frosting:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
- Combine batter: Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients. Mix until just combined, do not overmix.
- Add carrots and extras: Fold in grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and nuts if using.
- Bake: Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
- Prepare frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
- Frost the cake: Spread frosting evenly over cooled cake. Chill for 30 minutes to set before slicing.
- Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy the moist and flavorful carrot cake.
Tips for Perfect Moist Carrot Cake
- Grate carrots finely for a softer texture.
- Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese for smooth mixing.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense cake.
- Optional: Add raisins or shredded coconut for extra flavor.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Conclusion
This moist carrot cake is rich, flavorful, and packed with warm spices and natural sweetness from carrots and pineapple. The smooth cream cheese frosting complements the tender cake perfectly. It’s a perfect dessert for any celebration or a comforting treat for family and friends. Enjoy every bite of this classic, moist carrot cake and savor its spiced, soft, and creamy texture!