Sheet Pan Meals: A Delightful Carrot Cake Recipe

Name: Sheet Pan Meals: A Delightful Carrot Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup vegetable oil; 4 large eggs; 3 cups grated carrots; 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained; 1 cup chopped walnuts; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

June 1, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Nothing beats the joy of a freshly baked carrot cake, especially when it’s rich, moist, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting! This recipe is my go-to for gatherings, thanks to its delightful balance of flavors and textures. The secret? It’s all about those freshly grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and the perfect blend of spices. Trust me, this isn’t just any dessert; it’s a showstopper that transforms simple ingredients into a heavenly treat. And the best part? It all comes together in one go, making it a fantastic sheet pan meal option for your next celebration!

sheet pan meals - detail 1

Ingredients List

2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs, at room temperature
3 cups grated carrots, packed
1 cup crushed pineapple, well-drained
1 cup chopped walnuts, lightly toasted for added flavor
8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted to prevent lumps
1 teaspoon vanilla extract, pure

How to Prepare Instructions

Preparing the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This will help your cakes release easily once they’re baked. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Make sure it’s well combined; this is crucial for an even texture.

In another bowl, combine the vegetable oil and eggs, beating them together until they’re fully blended. You want to make sure the oil and eggs are well integrated so the batter comes together smoothly. Now, gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ones. Be careful not to overmix—just stir until you see no dry flour. This helps keep the cake light and fluffy.

Now comes the exciting part! Fold in the grated carrots, well-drained crushed pineapple, and chopped walnuts. The carrots should look vibrant, and the mixture will feel heavier than a typical batter. That’s the moisture you want for a deliciously rich cake!

Baking the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Give the pans a gentle tap on the counter to release any air bubbles trapped in the batter. Slide your pans into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them starting at the 25-minute mark. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cakes; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. If you see wet batter, give it a few more minutes.

Once they’re done, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This is important to help them set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is crucial—don’t rush this step, or you might end up with a crumbly cake when you frost it!

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cakes are cooling, let’s whip up that dreamy cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until they’re smooth and creamy. Seriously, this step adds so much richness to your frosting! Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugary cloud. Once combined, increase to medium speed and add the vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy; this usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Make sure your cakes are completely cool before frosting; otherwise, the cream cheese frosting could melt. Trust me, you’ll want that beautiful, thick layer of frosting!

Assembling the Cake

Now, let’s assemble this beauty! Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top, making sure to cover it evenly. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and repeat the frosting process, spreading it on top and down the sides. The goal is to achieve a smooth finish, but don’t stress if it’s not perfect—rustic is totally in right now!

For an extra touch, you can decorate the top with additional chopped walnuts or even some edible flowers for a pop of color. This not only makes it look stunning but adds an extra layer of flavor. And there you have it—a gorgeous carrot cake ready to impress at your next gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredible Moistness: Thanks to the combination of freshly grated carrots and crushed pineapple, this cake stays moist for days, making it perfect for serving ahead of time.
Flavor Explosion: The warm spices of cinnamon combined with the sweetness of carrots and pineapple create a delightful flavor profile that dances on your palate.
Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, this recipe is perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers, ensuring a stress-free baking experience.
Versatile Frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy sweetness that complements the cake beautifully, and it’s easy to customize with flavors like vanilla or orange zest.
Stunning Presentation: Whether you choose to keep it simple or add decorative touches like walnuts or edible flowers, this cake is a showstopper that will impress at any gathering.

Tips for Success

To ensure your carrot cake turns out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips that I always follow:

Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your ingredients, the better your cake will taste. This means using fresh eggs, freshly grated carrots, and high-quality spices. Trust me, it makes a huge difference!
Room Temperature Eggs: Always use eggs that are at room temperature. This helps them incorporate better into the batter, leading to a lighter cake. Just take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start baking.
Don’t Skip the Sifting: Sifting your flour and powdered sugar is crucial for avoiding lumps, especially in the frosting. It also helps aerate the ingredients, resulting in a lighter texture.
Adjust Sugar to Taste: If you prefer a less sweet cake, feel free to reduce the sugar slightly. The sweetness of the carrots and pineapple will still provide great flavor.
Experiment with Mix-ins: While walnuts add a lovely crunch, you can substitute or add other mix-ins like pecans, raisins, or even coconut for a different texture and taste.
Frosting Tips: If your cream cheese frosting is too thick, add a splash of milk to achieve your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar until it thickens up.
Cool the Cakes Completely: This is a must! If the cakes are even slightly warm, the frosting can melt off, leaving you with a messy presentation.
Try a Sheet Pan: If you’re short on time or want to serve a crowd, consider baking the batter in a sheet pan instead of round cakes. Just keep an eye on the baking time as it may cook a bit faster!

By following these tips, you’ll set yourself up for success and create a carrot cake that’s as delicious as it is beautiful!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are plenty of ways to customize this carrot cake recipe! Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:

Different Nuts: While walnuts add a lovely crunch, you can easily swap them out for pecans or even hazelnuts. Toasting them beforehand enhances their flavor and brings out their natural oils.
Fruit Add-ins: Try folding in some raisins or dried cranberries for a chewy texture. If you’re a fan of tropical flavors, shredded coconut can add a delightful twist!
Spice It Up: For a more complex flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of cardamom or ginger. These spices can elevate the cake’s warmth and depth, making it even more comforting.
Zesty Twist: Incorporate some orange or lemon zest into the batter for a bright, citrusy kick. This pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the carrots and pineapple.
Frosting Variations: While cream cheese frosting is classic, you can change it up by adding flavors like maple syrup or almond extract. For a lighter option, consider whipped cream or a simple buttercream with a hint of vanilla.
Chocolate Lovers: If you want to satisfy your chocolate cravings, try mixing in some chocolate chips into the batter or topping the cake with a rich ganache instead of frosting.
Sheet Cake Style: As mentioned earlier, baking the batter in a sheet pan is a fantastic option for serving a crowd. Just remember to adjust the baking time, as it may take less time to cook through!

These variations not only keep things exciting but also let you tailor the cake to your tastes or the preferences of your guests. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your delicious carrot cake fresh and moist, proper storage is key. Here’s how to do it right:

Storing Leftovers: Once your cake is fully assembled and frosted, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This helps prevent it from drying out. If you prefer, you can also store individual slices in airtight containers for easy access.
Refrigeration: For optimal freshness, especially with the cream cheese frosting, store your cake in the refrigerator. It should stay delicious for up to 5 days. Just remember to let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing the Cake: If you want to save your cake for later, you can freeze it! To do this, slice the cake first, then wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating Tips: If you prefer your cake warm, you can gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the frosting to melt. Alternatively, you can warm it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your delightful carrot cake at its best, whether it’s day one or day five!

Nutritional Information Section

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values for each slice of this delightful carrot cake. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:

Calories: 450
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 250mg
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 35g
Protein: 5g

This cake is a delightful treat that can fit into your dessert plans while offering some nutritional benefits from the carrots and nuts. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet, and indulge in the flavors without worry! Remember, these values are estimates, and your specific cake might differ based on how you tweak the recipe or serving sizes.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of flour for this carrot cake?
Absolutely! While all-purpose flour is the classic choice for this recipe, you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. Just keep in mind that it may result in a denser texture. If you’re gluten-sensitive, a gluten-free all-purpose blend should work as well—just ensure it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum.

Q2: How can I make this cake ahead of time?
You can bake the cake layers in advance and store them in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap, for up to 3 days before frosting. Alternatively, you can freeze the baked and cooled layers for up to 3 months. Just defrost them in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and serving.

Q3: What can I substitute for the cream cheese frosting?
If cream cheese frosting isn’t your thing, you can opt for a classic buttercream frosting or a light whipped cream topping. For a tangy twist, a mascarpone frosting can be an excellent alternative. Each option will offer a different flavor profile but will still pair beautifully with the carrot cake.

Q4: Can I make this recipe as cupcakes?
Yes! This carrot cake batter works wonderfully in cupcake form. Just fill your cupcake liners about two-thirds full and bake at the same temperature for about 18-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and use the toothpick test to check for doneness!

Q5: How do I prevent the cake from sinking in the middle?
To prevent sinking, make sure your oven is preheated properly before you place the cake in. Avoid opening the oven door too frequently during baking, as this can cause temperature fluctuations. Additionally, ensure that your baking powder and soda are fresh; expired leavening agents can lead to under-risen cakes. Follow the mixing instructions closely to avoid overmixing, which can also affect the rise.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.