Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Lightly grease or line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together Group One ingredients (applesauce or oil, sugar, eggs) until smooth.

2. Add Group Two ingredients (flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon) to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined.

3. Stir in Group Three ingredients (grated carrots, coconut, nuts, vanilla, and crushed pineapple). Do not overmix!

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan.

2. Spread evenly with a spatula to ensure an even bake.

3. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

4. Let cool completely before frosting.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and cream cheese together until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).

2. Add vanilla extract and mix to combine.

3. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating on low speed until smooth.

Step 5: Frost and Serve

1. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake bars.

2. Slice into 36 bars and serve immediately.