Carrot Cake

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. 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

1. Divide the batter equally among the prepared cake pans.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
3. 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

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. 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.