A super moist, tropical twist on classic carrot cake! Sweet crushed pineapple, warm cinnamon, and tender carrots come together under a rich, creamy layer of luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations, holidays, or whenever you crave something special.
📝 Ingredients
🥕 For the Cake Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained well
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
🧁 For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk (if needed for consistency)
👩🍳 Directions
1️⃣ Prepare the Oven and Pans
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3️⃣ Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat eggs, vegetable oil, applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
4️⃣ Combine & Fold
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in grated carrots, well-drained crushed pineapple, coconut, and nuts if using.
5️⃣ Bake
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
6️⃣ Prepare the Frosting
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract. Add milk 1 tablespoon at a time if needed to reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.
7️⃣ Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread an even layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides evenly.
8️⃣ Decorate & Serve
Garnish with extra shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or pineapple pieces if desired. Slice and enjoy.
📊 Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour
- Servings: 12
- Texture: Ultra moist & tender
- Flavor Profile: Sweet, warmly spiced, lightly tropical