Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter equally among the prepared cake pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on low speed until the sugar is incorporated, then increase the speed and beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.