Taste the sunshine in this Carrot Cake with Pineapple Cream Cheese Frosting! Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat. #carrotcake #pineapplecake #creamcheesefrosting
### Delicious Carrot Cake with Pineapple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
#### Ingredients:
- **For the Cake:**
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated carrots (about 5 medium-sized)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- **For the Frosting:**
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 can (10 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, drained and reserved
#### Instructions:
##### Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
3. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In another mixing bowl, beat vegetable oil and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
##### Step 2: Combine All Ingredients
1. **Mix Batter:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
2. **Fold in Carrots and Walnuts (Optional):** Gently fold in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts if using. The batter will be thick but should not have any lumps.
##### Step 3: Bake the Cake
1. **Divide Batter:** Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
2. **Bake:** Place cakes in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. **Cool Cakes:** Remove from the oven and let cool completely on wire racks.
##### Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
1. **Blend Ingredients:** In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to mix. Stir in vanilla extract.
2. **Fold in Pineapple:** Gently fold in the drained pineapple chunks to create a tangy frosting.
##### Step 5: Assemble the Cake
1. **Level Cakes:** Once both cakes are completely cool, level them if necessary using a serrated knife.
2. **Apply Frosting:** Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting over it. Top with the second cake layer.
3. **Add Remaining Frosting:** Frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.
##### Step 6: Decorate
1. **Optional Garnish:** Sprinkle chopped walnuts or grated carrots on top for added texture and flavor.
2. **Serve Immediately:** Enjoy your delicious carrot cake with pineapple cream cheese frosting right away!
#### Tips:
- Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to achieve the best results.
- You can store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
By following these steps, you can create a delightful and visually stunning carrot cake with pineapple cream cheese frosting. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or just a treat on a sunny afternoon!