Freeman Allen's Carrot Cake

Freeman Allen's Carrot Cake is the ultimate dessert for carrot cake lovers, featuring a perfectly moist, spiced crumb infused with the sweetness of crushed pineapple and the crunch of chopped pecans or walnuts. This timeless recipe combines grated carrots, warm cinnamon, and a splash of vanilla for a flavor-packed cake, impeccably balanced with a luscious homemade cream cheese frosting. Easy to prepare in either layers or a sheet pan, it’s a versatile option for birthdays, holidays, or any gathering. With just 20 minutes of prep time and ingredients you likely already have on hand, this classic carrot cake is an absolute showstopper that will leave guests asking for seconds. Perfectly indulgent, beautifully textured, and brimming with homemade charm, Freeman Allen's Carrot Cake is the go-to recipe for a dessert that’s as nostalgic as it is crave-worthy.

Nutriscore Rating: 47/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• 2 cups Granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons Baking soda
• 2 teaspoons Ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoons Salt
• 1 cup Vegetable oil
• 4 Large eggs
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
• 3 cups Carrots, finely grated
• 1 cup Pineapple, crushed and drained
• 1 cup Pecans or walnuts, chopped
• 8 ounces Cream cheese, softened
• 0.5 cup Unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups Powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (for frosting)

Directions

Step 1

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

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, beat together the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.

Step 5

Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped nuts until evenly distributed.

Step 6

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 7

Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8

Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 9

While the cake cools, prepare the frosting: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy.

Step 10

Add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.

Step 11

Stir in the vanilla extract and continue beating until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.

Step 12

Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Step 13

If using a 9x13-inch cake, spread the frosting evenly over the top of the cake.

Step 14

Decorate with additional chopped nuts or grated carrot if desired. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2989.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	9278.2

Total Fat 488.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 152.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 134.4g
Cholesterol 1253.4mg	0%
Sodium 5243.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 1213.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 44.7g	0%
Total Sugars 950.0g
Protein 84.8g	0%

Vitamin D 160IU	0%
Calcium 812.3mg	0%
Iron 22.5mg	0%
Potassium 3950.8mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 45.9%

Protein: 3.5%

Carbs: 50.6%