I have made this same recipe for years with 2+cups carrots and without the coconut, and it is the BEST. Carrot cake is my husband's favorite. He has tried those at several high end restaurants and says they aren't as good as this recipe. I always add a little more pineapple and nuts than what is called for and use a cream cheese frosting. It also works well in a 13x9 pan at 325 for about an hour. Next time I will add coconut and if he likes it, I will keep it including it. You can't go wrong with this recipe!