Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (220g) packed light brown sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups (300g) grated carrots
- 1 cup (100g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- ½ cup (120g) crushed pineapple, drained (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups (375g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another large bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Incorporate Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add Carrots & Extras: Gently fold in the grated carrots, nuts, and pineapple (if using).
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Frosting: Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until creamy.
- Assemble: Spread frosting over the first cake layer, then stack the second layer on top and frost the top and sides. Decorate with extra chopped nuts or shredded carrots, if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Would you like to add any variations, like a spice blend or frosting alternatives? 😊