Carrot Cake with Walnuts and Cream Cheese Icing

Cake Preparation Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch pan.

Mixing the Batter In a large bowl, combine the grated carrots, chopped walnuts, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the carrot mixture, stirring until just combined.

Baking the Cake Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.

Cream Cheese Icing In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until creamy and well combined.

Assembling the Cake Spread the cream cheese icing over the cooled carrot cake. Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top and decorate with whole walnuts. Optional: Sprinkle shredded coconut and crushed pineapple over the icing for extra flavor.