GRANDMA’S FAMOUS CARROT CAKE

Grandma’s Famous Carrot Cake is a delightful and moist dessert that brings together the sweetness of carrots, the richness of pecans, and the creaminess of Neufchâtel cheese frosting. The addition of crushed pineapple adds a hint of tropical flavor, making this carrot cake truly special.

Grandma’s Famous Carrot Cake

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 3 cups grated carrots
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups white sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple with juice
• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Frosting:

• 3 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 1 package (8 ounces) Neufchâtel cheese
• 1/2 cup softened butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans

How to Make:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9-inch skillet with flour and brush with flour.
2. In a large bowl, combine grated carrots, flour, white sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Add eggs, oil, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, crushed pineapple (with juice), and 3/4 cup chopped pecans. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center of the cake.
5. Allow the cake to cool.

For the Frosting:

1. In a medium bowl, combine confectioners’ sugar, Neufchâtel cheese, softened butter, and 1 1/4 teaspoons of vanilla.
2. Whisk until smooth, then stir in 1 cup of chopped pecans.
3. Spread the frosting over the chilled cake.

Tips:

• Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly grated carrots for the best flavor and texture in the cake.
• Pineapple Drainage: If using canned crushed pineapple, drain any excess juice before adding it to the batter.
• Chilled Frosting: For easier spreading, chill the frosting in the refrigerator for a short time before applying it to the cake.
• Creative Decoration: Consider decorating the cake with additional chopped pecans or shredded carrots for a beautiful presentation.

Enjoy this timeless and delicious carrot cake that carries the warmth and tradition of Grandma’s baking!