The 'Divorce Carrot Cake' Recipe That Won Over Reddit After 50 Years

A decades-old carrot cake recipe has gone viral after resurfacing on Reddit. Known as 'Divorce Carrot Cake,' it first appeared in a 1970s community cookbook from Michigan. The unusual name comes from a father's request to his daughter after his separation.

The recipe was originally published in the 1974 Chelsea Market Basket cookbook by the Chelsea Junior Woman's Club in Chelsea, Michigan. It sat on page 52 for years before gaining attention on the r/Old_Recipes subreddit. The cake's name stems from a divorced father asking his daughter to bake it for his birthday.

Unlike standard carrot cakes, this version uses honey instead of sugar. It also includes raisins, walnuts, and crushed pineapple for extra texture and sweetness. Most bakers top it with cream cheese frosting, often mixed with a splash of lemon juice.

The post quickly drew hundreds of comments, with over 300 users praising its taste. Many called it the best carrot cake they'd ever tried. One Redditor even joked that baking it helped her find a boyfriend.

While this recipe stands out, other popular variations exist. These include Best-Ever Carrot Cake, Apple-Pecan Carrot Cake, and Carrot Cake Bread with maple frosting.

The cake's simple ingredients and rich history have made it a modern favourite. Its viral success on Reddit has introduced a new generation to a 50-year-old recipe. The original cookbook remains a hidden treasure for those seeking classic, time-tested desserts.