Carrot Caramel Poke Cake (Print Version)

Tender carrot cake infused with caramel and topped with whipped cream, pineapple, walnuts, and coconut.

# Ingredients:

→ Dry ingredients

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 cups granulated sugar
03 - 1 tablespoon baking powder
04 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
05 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Wet ingredients

08 - 4 large eggs
09 - 1 cup vegetable oil
10 - 2 cups grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots)
11 - 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained

→ Mix-ins and toppings

12 - 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
13 - 1 cup caramel sauce
14 - 1 cup whipped topping
15 - 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until evenly mixed.
03 - In a separate bowl, beat eggs and add vegetable oil, grated carrots, and drained crushed pineapple. Stir until fully blended.
04 - Gradually stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients just until combined. Gently fold in chopped walnuts if using.
05 - Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean.
06 - Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes evenly throughout the cake's surface.
07 - Drizzle caramel sauce over the warm cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Allow cake to cool completely.
08 - Once cool, spread whipped topping evenly over the cake. Sprinkle with shredded coconut, if desired.
09 - Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving to allow flavors to meld.

# Notes:

01 - For best texture, drain pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
02 - The cake is easier to cut if fully chilled before serving.