Shortcut Carrot Cake

By TheresaJ

Ingredients

• 1 pkg. (2-layer size) spice cake mix
• 2 cups shredded carrots (about 3 large)
• 1 can (8 oz.) crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 cup chopped PLANTERS Pecans, divided
• 2 pkg. (8 oz. each) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tub (8 oz.) COOL WHIP Whipped Topping, thawed

Preparation

Step 1

HEAT oven to 350°F.

PREPARE cake batter as directed on package; stir in carrots, pineapple and 3/4 cup nuts. Pour into 2 (9-inch) square pans sprayed with cooking spray. Bake 25 to 30 min. or until toothpick inserted in centers comes out clean. Cool in pans 10 min.; invert onto wire racks. Remove pans. Turn cakes over; cool completely.

MEANWHILE, beat cream cheese and sugar until well blended. Whisk in COOL WHIP.

STACK cake layers on plate, spreading frosting between layers and on top and sides of cake. Top with remaining nuts. Keep refrigerated.