To Die For Carrot Cake Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a truly unforgettable dessert that will wow your friends and family, look no further than this To Die For Carrot Cake Recipe. Bursting with fresh grated carrots, lush crushed pineapple, and the perfect hint of cinnamon, this cake achieves a moist, tender crumb that is complemented flawlessly by a smooth cream cheese frosting. Every bite delivers a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and warmly spiced flavors, making this classic dessert the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this To Die For Carrot Cake Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each component brings something special to the texture, flavor, and aroma, ensuring that the final cake is as delightful as it is comforting.

• Unsweetened applesauce (1¼ cups) or vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist while adding a subtle natural sweetness.
• Granulated sugar (2 cups): Balances the natural earthiness of the carrots with just the right amount of sweetness.
• Large eggs (3): Bind everything together and give structure to the cake.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides the base for the tender, soft crumb.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon) & baking powder (1½ teaspoons): Combined leaveners ensure a perfect rise and fluffy texture.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, making them shine.
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Gives that warm, inviting spice that makes carrot cake so iconic.
• Grated carrots (2 cups): The star ingredient adds moisture, texture, and natural sweetness.
• Shredded sweetened coconut (1 cup): Adds a delightful chew and tropical flair.
• Chopped nuts (1 cup, optional): For a satisfying crunch and a nutty depth.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Lifts all the flavors with its fragrant warmth.
• Crushed pineapple, undrained (1 can, 8.25 oz): Adds moisture and tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the spices.
• Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened): Creates a creamy texture in the frosting.
• Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Rich and tangy, making the frosting irresistible.
• Powdered sugar (1 lb): Sweetens the frosting to silky perfection.

How to Make To Die For Carrot Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure your cakes come out perfectly shaped and don’t stick. This simple prep step is essential for easy release and beautiful presentation.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce or vegetable oil with the granulated sugar until they meld into a smooth, well-combined mixture. This combination is not just about sweetness but also contributes to the moist texture we all love in carrot cake.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition. This technique ensures your batter becomes light and airy, helping the cake to rise beautifully without being dense.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Slowly add this to the wet mixture, stirring just until everything is blended to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake tough.

Step 5: Fold In Carrots and More

Now comes the fun part: folding in the grated carrots, shredded coconut, optional chopped nuts, vanilla extract, and undrained crushed pineapple. These ingredients add bursts of flavor and texture that make this carrot cake truly exceptional.

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them — a clean toothpick inserted into the center means your cake is perfectly baked. Remove from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened butter and cream cheese together in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract, then gradually beat in the powdered sugar until your frosting is fluffy and luscious—a perfect partner to the cake’s warm spices.

Step 8: Assemble and Frost

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Add the second layer, then cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. For an extra special touch, sprinkle chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top for decoration.

How to Serve To Die For Carrot Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly chopped walnuts or pecans bring a lovely crunch and visual contrast, while additional shredded coconut adds tropical charm. For a pop of color, try a few edible flowers or a light dusting of cinnamon on top. These garnishes elevate your presentation and invite guests to dive in eagerly.

Side Dishes

Pair this carrot cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream for a dreamy dessert combo. A fresh fruit salad with citrus notes also complements the cake’s sweet spices and pineapple element beautifully, rounding out your dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, serve individual slices topped with candied ginger or a drizzle of caramel sauce. You could also turn this into cupcakes for small gatherings, creating mini versions of the To Die For Carrot Cake Recipe that are perfect for parties or gift-giving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This carrot cake stays moist and delicious for several days when kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Always cover the cake to prevent it from absorbing any other fridge odors. It’s an excellent make-ahead dessert for busy days.

Freezing

You can freeze both the unfrosted cake layers and the fully frosted cake. Wrap layers tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. This allows you to prepare your To Die For Carrot Cake Recipe well in advance, making celebrations stress-free and sweet.

Reheating

If you like your cake slightly warm, bring slices to room temperature and heat gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. Avoid overheating to keep the frosting from melting and the cake from drying out.

FAQs

Can I substitute applesauce for oil in this recipe?

Absolutely! Unsweetened applesauce is a healthier alternative that keeps the cake moist while reducing fat content. If you prefer a richer texture, vegetable oil works perfectly as well.

Do I have to use crushed pineapple in the batter?

While optional, crushed pineapple is a key ingredient in this To Die For Carrot Cake Recipe because it adds moisture and a slight tang, balancing the sweetness and elevating the overall flavor.

Can I omit the nuts if I have allergies?

Yes, you can leave out the nuts without affecting the cake’s texture too much. Simply increase the shredded coconut slightly if you want to maintain some chewy texture in your slices.

How long will this carrot cake keep fresh?

Stored properly in the refrigerator, the cake will stay fresh for up to 4 days. If wrapped and refrigerated tightly, the cream cheese frosting remains luscious and the cake moist.

Is this recipe good for a birthday cake?

Definitely! The rich flavors and beautiful presentation make this To Die For Carrot Cake Recipe a gorgeous and tasty choice for birthdays or any special occasion where you want to impress.

Final Thoughts

Nothing quite matches the comforting, vibrant allure of this To Die For Carrot Cake Recipe. Whether you are baking for a holiday, a birthday, or just to treat yourself, this recipe will become your go-to favorite. Its radiant layers and creamy frosting promise smiles with every slice. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get ready to share something truly special with your loved ones!

To Die For Carrot Cake Recipe

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4 from 67 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This To Die For Carrot Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert bursting with grated carrots, shredded coconut, and crushed pineapple, all wrapped in a rich cream cheese frosting. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and enhanced with optional chopped nuts, this classic cake delivers a delightful texture and taste that’s ideal for celebrations or everyday indulgence.

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Ingredients

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Cake Ingredients

• 1¼ cups unsweetened applesauce (or vegetable oil)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 can (8.25 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained

Frosting Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 lb powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce (or vegetable oil) and granulated sugar until they are well combined and smooth.
3. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon together until evenly distributed.
5. Mix Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in Add-Ins: Carefully fold in the grated carrots, shredded sweetened coconut, chopped nuts if using, vanilla extract, and the undrained crushed pineapple to the batter, ensuring evenly distributed.
7. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
9. Prepare Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
10. Add Flavor: Mix in the vanilla extract until evenly combined.
11. Add Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar while beating, continuing until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
12. Assemble Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
13. Add Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top of the frosted first layer, then frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting evenly.
14. Decorate: Optionally, decorate the cake with additional chopped nuts or shredded coconut according to preference.
15. Serve or Store: Serve the cake immediately, or refrigerate it until ready to serve to keep it fresh.

Notes

• For a moister cake, ensure the pineapple is undrained as specified.
• Chopped nuts are optional; walnuts or pecans work best for added texture.
• Use room temperature ingredients for the frosting to ensure smooth mixing.
• If substituting applesauce with oil, the texture may be denser.
• Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Let the cake come to room temperature before serving if chilled, for optimal flavor and texture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American