Carrot cake, a classic dessert that has been a staple in many bakeries and households for decades, is a moist and flavorful treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the year. The combination of grated carrots, chopped walnuts, and sweet pineapple creates a delightful harmony of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more. In this article, we will explore the art of making a delicious carrot cake with pineapple, a recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household.
The history of carrot cake dates back to the Middle Ages, where carrots were used as a sweetener due to the high cost of sugar. The cake was originally made with grated carrots, sugar, and spices, and was often served as a dessert or snack. Over time, the recipe has evolved, and various ingredients such as pineapple, walnuts, and cream cheese frosting have been added to create the delicious carrot cake we know and love today.
Delicious Carrot Cake with Pineapple Recipe
This recipe for carrot cake with pineapple is a classic take on the traditional dessert. The addition of crushed pineapple adds natural sweetness and moisture to the cake, while the chopped walnuts provide a delightful crunch. The cream cheese frosting is the perfect complement to the cake, with its tangy flavor and smooth texture.
Ingredients
The following ingredients are needed for this recipe:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
To make this delicious carrot cake with pineapple, follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Stir in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped walnuts.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cream Cheese Frosting
The cream cheese frosting is a crucial component of this carrot cake recipe. The tangy flavor of the cream cheese pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cake, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients
The following ingredients are needed for the cream cheese frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
To make the cream cheese frosting, follow these steps:
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Beat in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
Key Points
- This carrot cake recipe with pineapple is a delicious and moist dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
- The addition of crushed pineapple adds natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.
- The cream cheese frosting is a crucial component of this recipe, with its tangy flavor and smooth texture.
- This recipe makes two 9-inch (23cm) round cakes, which can be stacked and frosted to create a beautiful and delicious dessert.
- The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
| Nutrition Information | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 40mg |
| Sodium | 300mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 20g |
| Protein | 5g |
Can I use canned pineapple instead of crushed pineapple?
+Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but make sure to drain the liquid and chop the pineapple into small pieces before adding it to the batter.
Can I substitute the cream cheese frosting with a different type of frosting?
+Yes, you can use a different type of frosting, such as buttercream or whipped cream, but the cream cheese frosting is a classic combination with carrot cake.
Can I make this recipe in a single 9x13-inch pan?
+Yes, you can make this recipe in a single 9x13-inch pan, but adjust the baking time to 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
In conclusion, this carrot cake recipe with pineapple is a delicious and moist dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The addition of crushed pineapple adds natural sweetness and moisture to the cake, while the cream cheese frosting provides a tangy and smooth contrast. With its easy-to-follow instructions and high-quality ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
