Amish Friendship Carrot Cake Recipe

Amish Friendship Carrot Cake is a heartwarming recipe that combines tradition with a delightful flavor punch. This cake features fresh grated carrots, shredded coconut, crunchy nuts, and the unique addition of an Amish sourdough starter that adds a subtle tang and moist crumb.

Unlike regular carrot cakes, this version incorporates pineapple for natural sweetness and texture, balanced with a rich cream cheese frosting.

It’s an ideal dessert for family gatherings, celebrations, or a comforting treat with a cup of tea. With straightforward steps and wholesome ingredients, this cake is perfect for bakers of all levels.

Ingredients Checklist

To prepare this delicious cake, gather the following ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in texture, taste, and structure:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the base structure.

• 1 tsp baking soda – Helps the cake rise.

• 1 tsp baking powder – Adds additional leavening.

• 1 tsp cinnamon – Adds warm spice flavor.

• 1/2 tsp nutmeg – Enhances the spiced notes.

• 1/2 tsp salt – Balances sweetness.

• 3 large eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture.

• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake.

• 1 cup brown sugar – Adds moisture and caramel notes.

• 1 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake tender.

• 2 cups grated carrots – Adds moisture and natural sweetness.

• 1 cup shredded coconut – Contributes chewy texture.

• 1 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans) – Adds crunch and nuttiness.

• 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained) – Boosts flavor and moisture.

• 1 cup Amish sourdough starter – Imparts subtle tang and enhances crumb.

• For the Frosting:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 4 cups powdered sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Optional Garnish: Chopped pecans or walnuts, cinnamon dusting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to ensure your cake turns out moist, flavorful, and beautifully textured:

1. Prepare the Sourdough Starter:
   If you don’t have an Amish sourdough starter, see the note below for a quick starter recipe or omit for a simplified version. The starter provides a distinct depth and tenderness.

2. Preheat Oven:
   Set your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

4. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   In another bowl, whisk eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth. Stir in the Amish sourdough starter and vanilla extract.

5. Incorporate Carrots and Pineapple:
   Fold in grated carrots, shredded coconut, crushed pineapple, and chopped nuts.

6. Combine Wet and Dry:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.

7. Bake:
   Divide batter evenly into prepared pans. Bake 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Rotate pans halfway for even baking.

8. Cool:
   Let cakes cool in pans for 15 minutes, then transfer to wire racks until completely cool before frosting.

9. Prepare Frosting:
   Beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fluffy.

10. Assemble Cake:
    Spread frosting on one cake layer, top with the second layer, and frost the entire cake. Garnish with chopped nuts and optional cinnamon dusting.

Tips for Perfect Amish Friendship Carrot Cake

Enhance your baking experience with these professional tips:

• Sourdough Starter: For authentic flavor, maintain a healthy starter as per the recipe. If unavailable, substitute with 1/2 cup buttermilk for moisture and slight tang.

• Grate Carrots Fresh: Freshly grated carrots retain moisture and texture better than pre-shredded.

• Don’t Overmix: Mixing just until combined prevents gluten overdevelopment, keeping the cake tender.

• Check Doneness Early: Start testing the cake 5-10 minutes before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring eggs, cream cheese, and butter to room temperature for smooth batter and frosting.

• Toast Nuts: Lightly toast walnuts or pecans to enhance flavor and crunch.

• Pineapple Drainage: Properly drain crushed pineapple to avoid excess moisture that can weigh down the cake.

Serving Suggestions

This cake pairs wonderfully with several accompaniments and occasions:

• Beverage Pairing: Serve with a cup of spiced chai, black tea, or coffee to complement the warm flavors.

• Presentation: Dust lightly with cinnamon or garnish with edible flowers for special events.

• Accompaniments: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

• Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, holiday gatherings, or an afternoon treat with friends.

Final Thoughts

The Amish Friendship Carrot Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of tradition, texture, and taste. The inclusion of the sourdough starter introduces a unique depth and moistness that elevates this cake above typical carrot cakes.

By combining fresh carrots, shredded coconut, pineapple, and crunchy nuts, it balances sweetness, spice, and richness perfectly.

Whether you are an experienced baker or trying this recipe for the first time, the clear steps and tips ensure success. Enjoy the process and the joy of sharing this wholesome, flavorful cake with loved ones.