Joan's Pennsylvania Dutch Carrot Cake

Experience the rustic charm of "Joan's Pennsylvania Dutch Carrot Cake," a classic dessert brimming with warmth and flavor. This moist, spiced carrot cake is elevated with the addition of crushed pineapple and crunchy pecans or walnuts, bringing a delightful balance of textures to every bite. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this homemade masterpiece is perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations. With simple pantry staples and just 20 minutes of prep time, this recipe is as easy as it is irresistible. Whether baked in rounds for a show-stopping layered cake or in a 9x13 pan for an easy slice-and-serve treat, this Pennsylvania Dutch-inspired dessert is a timeless favorite.

Nutriscore Rating: 43/100

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
• 4 large eggs
• 1.5 cups vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 3 cups grated carrots
• 8 ounces crushed pineapple (drained)
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 0.5 cups unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for frosting)

Directions

Step 1

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

Step 2

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

Step 3

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

Step 4

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

Step 5

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans or pour into the baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 6

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

Step 7

Allow the cake(s) to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8

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

Step 9

Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Step 10

Once the cake is completely cool, frost the top of one cake layer (if using rounds), then place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake. If using a 9x13 pan, simply spread the frosting over the top of the entire cake.

Step 11

Garnish with additional chopped nuts, if desired, and serve. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2720.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	10086.4

Total Fat 590.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 167.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 201.6g
Cholesterol 1253.4mg	0%
Sodium 4994.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 1176.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 35.5g	0%
Total Sugars 942.7g
Protein 82.5g	0%

Vitamin D 222.3IU	0%
Calcium 672.1mg	0%
Iron 22.4mg	0%
Potassium 2277.0mg	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: 51.4%

Protein: 3.2%

Carbs: 45.5%