Carrot Cake
AI-generated image
Vegetarian Canadian

Carrot Cake

A tender Canadian-style carrot cake layered with warm cinnamon, toasted walnuts, crushed pineapple, and a tangy cream cheese frosting. The cake stays moist without becoming heavy, making it a dependable celebration dessert or make-ahead treat.

68 min 10 servings Medium
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How to prepare

1
Heat the oven to 175°C. Grease two 20 cm round cake pans, line their bases with parchment, and lightly flour the sides.
2
Whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl until evenly combined and no spice pockets remain.
3
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar for about 1 minute, then whisk in the oil and vanilla until glossy. Stir in the grated carrot, drained pineapple, and walnuts.
4
Fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture just until no dry streaks remain; do not overmix. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
5
Bake for 35 to 38 minutes, rotating the pans once, until the centers spring back lightly and a skewer inserted in the middle comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Golden carrot cake layers tested with a skewer for doneness. AI-generated image
6
Cool the cakes in their pans for 15 minutes, then turn them onto a rack, peel away the parchment, and cool completely before frosting.
7
Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the icing sugar and lemon juice, then beat just until thick and spreadable.
8
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread with one-third of the frosting. Set the second layer on top, cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting, and chill for 30 minutes to set.
Two-layer carrot cake covered with cream cheese frosting on a cake stand. AI-generated image

Why this recipe works

Finely grated carrots and crushed pineapple provide moisture, while oil keeps the crumb tender even when chilled. Cinnamon and toasted walnuts add warmth and contrast to the bright, tangy frosting.

Storage and reheating

How to store it

Cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days because of the cream cheese frosting. The unfrosted cake layers can be wrapped and frozen for up to 2 months.

How to reheat it

Do not reheat the frosted cake. Let individual slices stand at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving.

Nutrition / serving

525kcal
7.66 gprotein
56.77 gcarbs
30.89 gfat
P
Pantryvale editorial kitchen
Recipe prepared for publication with complete ingredients and ordered cooking steps.
Published 15 Aug 2026 · updated 16 Aug 2026