
Hey, Welcome to the Saltgrass Carrot Cake Recipe. Saltgrass Carrot Cake is a moist, spiced dessert loaded with carrots, nuts, and a creamy frosting that melts in your mouth.
If you’ve ever had this cake at Saltgrass Steak House, you already know how indulgent and comforting it is.
I wanted to recreate that at home, and guess what? I nailed it! Today, I’m sharing the easiest way to make this delightful recipe right in your kitchen.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 10
Cuisine: American
Category: Dessert
History and Origin
Carrots were frequently used as a natural sweetener in desserts in Europe, where carrot cake originated.
Saltgrass Steak House popularized its rich, spiced carrot cake topped with creamy frosting, making it a signature dessert for many comfort food lovers across America.
What does Saltgrass Carrot Cake taste like?
Saltgrass Carrot Cake tastes moist, nutty, and warmly spiced. The sweetness of carrots balances perfectly with cinnamon and sugar.
The creamy frosting adds a rich, tangy, and indulgent finish. By the way, you can also try the La Madeleine Mushroom Soup Recipe.
Saltgrass Carrot Cake Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients to start making the Best Saltgrass Carrot Cake Recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 2 cups |
| Baking powder | 2 tsp |
| Baking soda | 2 tsp |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Grated carrots | 3 cups |
| Chopped pecans | 1 cup |
| Crushed pineapple (drained) | 1 cup |
| Vegetable oil | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 4 |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz |
| Butter (softened) | 1/2 cup |
| Powdered sugar | 4 cups |
| Vanilla extract (for frosting) | 1 tsp |
Equipment Needed
Also, gather the following equipment, as they are necessary to craft your Easy Saltgrass Carrot Cake Recipe:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater
- Rubber spatula
- Two 9-inch round cake pans
- Cooling rack
How to Make Saltgrass Carrot Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Add oil, eggs, and vanilla, then mix well.
Step 2: Add Carrots and Pineapple
Fold in the grated carrots, drained pineapple, and chopped pecans until well combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into greased 9-inch cake pans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45–50 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then whip until fluffy.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Once cakes are cooled, spread frosting between the layers and over the top and sides, and garnish with extra pecans if desired.
Recipe Card

Saltgrass Carrot Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Add oil, eggs, and vanilla, then mix well.

- Fold in the grated carrots, drained pineapple, and chopped pecans until well combined.

- Pour the batter evenly into greased 9-inch cake pans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45–50 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then whip until fluffy.

- Once cakes are cooled, spread frosting between the layers and over the top and sides, and garnish with extra pecans if desired.

Video
Notes
Saltgrass Carrot Cake Nutrition
Below, I have listed the nutritional information for the Saltgrass Carrot Cake Recipe:
| Nutrient | Amount (per slice) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 |
| Carbohydrates | 63g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 46g |
Serving Suggestions
Serve Saltgrass Carrot Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Pair it with coffee, tea, or even milk to balance the sweetness and enhance the warm spiced flavors.
Storage Tips
Keep Saltgrass Carrot Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil.
For the greatest texture, thaw at room temperature before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Texture
To get the best texture, always grate fresh carrots instead of using pre-shredded ones. Use room-temperature ingredients for even mixing, and don’t overmix the batter.
This helps your cake turn out perfectly moist, fluffy, and full of flavor every time.
Why This Recipe Works
This Saltgrass Carrot Cake Recipe balances sweet, nutty, and spiced flavors in perfect harmony.
The pineapple adds natural sweetness and moisture, while the cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy contrast. Each ingredient plays a key role in achieving the signature Saltgrass taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overbaking, which can dry out the cake. Make sure to drain the pineapple completely, or the batter may become too wet.
Also, let the cake cool fully before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting or sliding off.
Variations You Can Try
You can add shredded coconut, raisins, or even crushed walnuts for a twist. For a healthier version, replace half the oil with applesauce.
You can also make cupcakes using the same batter for a cute, individual serving idea.
Best Frosting Tips
Always use softened butter and cream cheese to get smooth frosting. Beat them well before adding sugar for a fluffy texture.
If the frosting feels too soft, chill it for a few minutes before spreading it on your cake.
Perfect Occasions to Serve
Saltgrass Carrot Cake Recipe is ideal for birthdays, holidays, family gatherings, or Sunday dinners. Its comforting, home-baked flavor makes everyone happy.
It’s a dessert that fits any celebration, adding a warm, homemade touch to your special meals and get-togethers.
How to Make It Extra Fancy
To make it restaurant-style, garnish the frosted cake with toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon.
You can also pipe extra frosting on top or drizzle caramel sauce for a professional and indulgent presentation.
Conclusion
This Saltgrass Carrot Cake Recipe brings the steakhouse classic straight to your kitchen. Moist, spiced, and topped with creamy frosting, it’s the ultimate homemade dessert.
With these words, we came to the end of this article. If you like this recipe, then please rate this post with 5 stars at the end of the FAQs section, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones!
Happy Cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Saltgrass Carrot Cake without pineapple?
Yes, you can skip pineapple, but it adds moisture and sweetness.
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes, walnuts are a perfect substitute for pecans.
How do I keep the cake moist?
Do not overbake, and store in an airtight container.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, bake and frost a day before serving for the best flavor.
Can I freeze Saltgrass Carrot Cake?
Yes, freeze in slices for up to 2 months.
You will also like the La Madeleine Potato Galette Recipe.
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