Chef John’s Carrot Cake

Sink your fork into a slice of heavenly, moist carrot cake — each bite bursting with rich, spiced flavor and delicate sweetness. The cake is laced with freshly grated carrots, juicy pineapple, and a touch of cinnamon, creating a soft, tender crumb that melts in your mouth. The velvety cream cheese frosting — luxuriously smooth and tangy — wraps every layer in a decadent embrace. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and indulgence, with a warm, homemade charm that keeps you coming back for just one more slice. Thanks to the original author of this amazing recipe, Chef John @ Food Wishes!
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 cups white sugar
- 1 cup coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 heaping packed cups raw finely grated carrots (or more for a moister cake)
- 1 can (8 ounce) finely crushed pineapple, drained
For The Frosting
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, or to taste
- about 3 cups powdered sugar, or to taste
Cooking Directions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and ginger in a mixing bowl for a minute or two; reserve until needed.
- In another mixing bowl, combine the sugar, oil, and eggs. Whisk until thoroughly combined. Whisk in the melted butter. Use a spatula to stir in the carrots, pineapple, and nuts. Stir in the flour mixture in two additions.
- Scrape the batter into a lightly greased 13 x 9 baking dish. Bake for about 40 minutes, or until the top springs back slightly when gently touched with your finger. Remove and allow to cool completely before frosting.
- To make the frosting: Use an electric mixer to beat together the butter, cream cheese, milk, and vanilla until light and fluffy. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar to form a smooth frosting. Spread evenly over the cooled cake.