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Perfect Carrot Pineapple Cake Recipe with Creamy Frosting

carrot pineapple cake - featured image

A moist and flavorful carrot pineapple cake with a creamy, tangy-sweet cream cheese frosting that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (260g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
  • 2 cups (300g) shredded carrots
  • 1 cup (250g) crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 8 ounces (226g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 12 tablespoons (15-30ml) milk or heavy cream (to adjust consistency)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil. Whisk until well combined and slightly frothy.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix to keep the batter light.
  5. Gently fold in the shredded carrots, crushed pineapple, and nuts (if using).
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s), spreading it evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
  9. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then beat until fully combined. Add milk or heavy cream a tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
  10. Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top (and sides if making a layered cake). Sprinkle extra nuts on top if you like, and enjoy!

Notes

[‘Don’t overmix the batter to avoid a dense cake.’, ‘Drain the pineapple to prevent a soggy cake.’, ‘Freshly grated carrots are recommended for better flavor and texture.’, ‘Ensure eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.’, ‘Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: carrot cake, pineapple cake, cream cheese frosting, moist cake, Easter dessert, holiday cake, kid-friendly dessert