Pineapple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pineapple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting💙🧀💫🍍🌟🎂⭐💛🥕

Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking soda
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
3/4 cup (180ml) vegetable oil
1/4 cup (60ml) buttermilk
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots)
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
4 cups (500g) powdered sugar, sifted
2 tsp vanilla extract
1–2 tbsp heavy cream (if needed, to adjust consistency)

Garnish:

Grated carrots, shredded coconut, lime slices, or chopped nuts

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
In another bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until light and fluffy. Add oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
Gently stir in grated carrots, crushed pineapple, coconut, and nuts (if using).

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low. Increase speed and beat until fluffy.
Mix in vanilla extract and add heavy cream, a tablespoon at a time, if the frosting is too thick.

Step 4: Assemble and Frost the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting.
Add the second layer and frost the top and sides evenly. Use a spatula to create swirls for a rustic look.
Garnish with shredded coconut, grated carrots, and lime slices for a pop of color.