Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step by Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- Set the pan aside.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a bowl, add flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Use a whisk or fork to mix well.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a new bowl, add white sugar, brown sugar, and oil.
- Mix until smooth.
- Add one egg at a time.
- Beat well after each egg.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Add shredded carrots and crushed pineapple.
- Mix everything well.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixes
- Add dry mix to wet mix in small parts.
- Stir gently after each addition.
- Do not overmix the batter.
- Fold in pecans and raisins if you like.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Spread it out evenly.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes.
- Check with a toothpick—it should come out clean.
- Let the cake cool on a rack fully.
Step 6: Make the Frosting
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter together.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Step 7: Frost and Serve
- Make sure the cake is fully cool.
- Spread the frosting on top evenly.
- Cut into slices and serve.
- Enjoy with family and friends.
Servings and Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Cooling + Frosting Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Servings: 12 slices
Notes
Here are some simple tips for the best cake:
- Use Fresh Carrots: Always use fresh carrots, grated finely for best texture.
- Do Not Overmix: Mix the batter gently to keep the cake soft and moist.
- Add Warm Spices: Use cinnamon and nutmeg for classic carrot cake flavor.
- Choose Full-Fat Cream Cheese: This makes the frosting rich, smooth, and creamy.
- Chill the Frosting: Let frosting sit in the fridge before spreading it on.
- Check for Doneness: Bake until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
- Cool Before Frosting: Let the cake cool fully before adding frosting on top.