Classic Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Classic Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups grated carrots
  • 1 cup coarsely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
• For the Frosting:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • Chopped pecans for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pans:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together oil, eggs, sugar, and vanilla.
   • Stir in the grated carrots and crushed pineapple.
   • Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until blended.
   • Fold in the nuts if using.
4. Bake:
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
   • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
5. Make the Frosting:
   • Beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth.
   • Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until smooth.
6. Assemble the Cake:
   • If the cakes are domed on top, trim them flat with a large serrated knife.
   • Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top.
   • Top with the second cake layer and spread frosting evenly on the top and sides of the cake.
   • Garnish with chopped pecans.

This recipe will give you a moist, flavorful cake with a rich and creamy frosting that’s perfect for any special occasion or as a delightful treat to enjoy any time.