Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break down the essential ingredients and why they matter.
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cake.
- 2 teaspoons baking soda – Helps the cake rise and stay fluffy.
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon – Adds warm spice.
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg – Optional, but gives depth.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
Wet Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs – For richness and binding.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the base.
- ½ cup brown sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of molasses flavor.
- ¾ cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake tender.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor.
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained – Tropical moisture and taste.
Add-ins:
- 2 cups grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots) – Fresh and naturally sweet.
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) – Adds crunch.
- ½ cup shredded coconut (optional) – Emphasizes the tropical theme.
- ½ cup raisins (optional) – For a chewy, sweet surprise.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (if needed for consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Tools
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round pans for a layered cake.
- Line the bottoms with parchment paper if using round pans for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking soda
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Salt
Set aside.
Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat:
- Eggs
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Vegetable oil
- Vanilla extract
Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Combine and Add the Pineapple
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
Fold in:
- Crushed pineapple (with juice)
- Grated carrots
- Nuts, coconut, and raisins if using
The batter will be thick and chunky—that’s exactly what you want.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s).
- Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting