Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups (300g) finely grated carrots
- 1 cup (100g) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup (120g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (if needed)
Instructions:
- Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans with parchment paper and grease.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together oil, eggs, grated carrots, and crushed pineapple.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients slowly, folding gently until just combined. Stir in chopped nuts for added texture if desired.
- Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy. Add milk or cream to adjust consistency if necessary.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread frosting on top, and then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides with remaining frosting.
- Slice, serve, and savor the moistness!