Best Carrot Cake Ever

Best Carrot Cake Ever, featuring a moist texture, warm spices, and a luscious cream cheese frosting:

Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground cloves (optional)
1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional)
1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
4 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups (300g) finely grated carrots
1 cup (120g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
1/2 cup (75g) raisins (optional)
1/2 cup (120ml) crushed pineapple, drained (optional for extra moisture)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted
1 tsp vanilla extract
1-2 tbsp milk or heavy cream (optional, for desired consistency)

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pans
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix. Fold in the grated carrots, nuts, raisins, and crushed pineapple (if using).
Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until fully incorporated. Mix in the vanilla extract. Add milk or heavy cream if needed for a smoother consistency.
Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Decorate and Serve
Garnish with additional chopped nuts or a light dusting of cinnamon if desired. Slice and enjoy!