Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons (10g) baking powder
- 1 teaspoon (5g) baking soda
- ½ teaspoon (3g) salt
- 2 teaspoons (4g) ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon (1g) ground ginger (optional)
- ½ cup (50g) unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 ½ cups (approx. 150g) grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) packed brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) crushed pineapple, drained (optional for extra moisture)
- ½ cup (50g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 8 oz (227g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons (15g) shredded coconut (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan (or line with parchment paper).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and shredded coconut.
- In a large bowl, beat eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add oil, vanilla extract, and pineapple (if using). Mix until combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in grated carrots and nuts (if using).
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cake cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until fluffy.
- Once the cake is completely cool, spread frosting evenly on top and sides.
- Sprinkle with extra shredded coconut.