Old-Fashioned Carrot Cake Recipe with Pineapple and Raisins

A timeless classic, the old-fashioned carrot cake recipe with pineapple and raisins is a must-have dessert for any special occasion. This cake combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the juicy flavor of crushed pineapple and the chewy texture of raisins. Topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting, this homemade carrot cake is rich, moist, and filled with heartwarming nostalgia. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or a cozy family gathering, this traditional carrot cake will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Carrot Cake Recipe

• Super Moist Texture: The crushed pineapple keeps the cake incredibly moist without needing excessive oil.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of carrots, raisins, cinnamon, and pineapple creates a delightful balance of flavors.
• Easy to Make: Despite its rich taste, this cake is simple to prepare and can be made in just a few steps.

Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Carrot Cake with Pineapple and Raisins

To make this delicious carrot cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ¾ cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Additional Ingredients

• 1 cup raisins (soaked in warm water for 10 minutes and drained)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan or prepare two 9-inch round cake pans.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Baking powder
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Salt

Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In another bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract, grated carrots, and drained crushed pineapple.

Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
• Gently fold in the raisins and chopped nuts, if using.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s).
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Pair this old-fashioned carrot cake with a homemade cream cheese frosting for a perfect finishing touch.

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fluffy.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Spread the frosting over the cooled cake and garnish with additional raisins or chopped nuts, if desired.

Tips for Making the Best Old-Fashioned Carrot Cake

1. Drain the Pineapple: Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid excess moisture.
2. Soak the Raisins: Soaking raisins in warm water for 10 minutes softens them and enhances their flavor.
3. Use Fresh Carrots: Grate fresh carrots for the best texture and moisture in your cake.
4. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Recipe Variations

Here are a few variations to customize your carrot cake:

1. Gluten-Free Carrot Cake

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

2. Vegan Carrot Cake

• Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg).
• Use dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting.

3. Carrot Cake Cupcakes

• Pour the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 18-20 minutes to make delicious cupcakes.

Health Benefits of Carrot Cake with Pineapple and Raisins

This cake is not just a treat; it also offers some nutritional benefits:

• Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health.
• Pineapple: Contains vitamin C and antioxidants that boost the immune system.
• Raisins: Provide iron and fiber, promoting good digestion and energy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze carrot cake?

Yes! You can freeze the cake (without frosting) for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

Q: How do I store carrot cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Q: Can I make this cake without raisins?

Of course! If you’re not a fan of raisins, simply omit them, or replace them with chopped dates or dried cranberries.

Conclusion

This old-fashioned carrot cake recipe with pineapple and raisins is a true classic, combining rich flavors with a moist texture that’s hard to resist. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy dessert, this cake brings a nostalgic touch to your table. With the addition of sweet pineapple and chewy raisins, each bite offers a burst of flavor. Serve it with a luscious cream cheese frosting for the ultimate treat. Enjoy baking this delightful cake from scratch and share it with loved ones!