Introduction
If there’s one cake that never goes out of style, it’s carrot cake. This classic dessert brings together warm spices, sweet carrots, crushed pineapple, and crunchy walnuts, all finished with a tangy, velvety cream cheese frosting. It’s the kind of cake that works for birthdays, Easter, fall gatherings, or any time you crave a nostalgic, flavor-packed dessert.
Why I Love This Recipe
This isn’t your average carrot cake. What makes this version shine is the balance—moist crumb, natural sweetness from pineapple and carrots, and that luscious layer of homemade cream cheese frosting. The bundt pan makes it feel a little more special and elegant, with no layering fuss required. Bonus? It stays moist for days.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups grated carrots
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
- Oil: Substitute with melted coconut oil or avocado oil for a healthy twist.
- Nuts: Pecans work great if you’re out of walnuts.
- Add-ins: Add raisins or shredded coconut for extra texture.
- Low-sugar? Reduce sugar by ¼ cup or use a sugar substitute in the cake batter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Oven & Pan
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch bundt pan thoroughly.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat sugar and oil until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Bring it All Together
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet. Fold in grated carrots, pineapple, and walnuts until evenly distributed.
5. Bake
Pour the batter into the bundt pan. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cool completely in the pan, then invert onto a wire rack.
6. Make the Frosting
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla. Beat until fluffy.
7. Frost & Garnish
Once the cake is fully cooled, frost generously. Top with extra walnuts or carrot curls if desired.
Tips for Success
- Cool completely before frosting—this prevents melting and sliding.
- Use freshly grated carrots for better moisture and texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter once the flour goes in—it can toughen the cake.
- Store in the fridge for a firmer texture and longer shelf life.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This carrot cake pairs perfectly with a hot drink or as part of a dessert spread. Serve it with:
- Pumpkin Spice Muffins for a spiced dessert theme
- Banana Pudding at a family brunch
- Peanut Butter Brownies for a rich chocolatey counterpoint
- Neiman Marcus Cookies to build a full dessert tray
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites for easy snacking
Storage & Leftovers
- Room Temp: Store covered for up to 2 days.
- Fridge: Lasts up to 5–6 days—tastes even better chilled.
- Freeze: Unfrosted cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Peanut Butter Brownies
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites
- Copycat Neiman Marcus Cookies
- Pumpkin Spice Muffins
- Big Family Banana Pudding
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a lifelong carrot cake fan or trying it for the first time, this recipe is the ultimate version—moist, spiced, loaded with goodness, and topped with that irresistible tangy frosting. It’s celebration-worthy and easy enough to become your new favorite go-to bake.
Tried this recipe? Leave a comment or tag @ChefManiac on Instagram—we love seeing your creations! And don’t forget to follow for more timeless treats and weekend bakes.
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