Follow these simple steps to create your Homemade Carrot Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
5. Add Carrots and Pineapple: Gently fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped nuts (if using).
6. Divide Batter: Evenly distribute the batter between the prepared cake pans.
7. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
8. Cool the Cakes: Once baked, remove them from the oven. Let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
9. Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until creamy, then stir in vanilla extract.
10. Frost the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.