Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake Recipe

If you’re craving a cake that bursts with tropical flavors and moist, tender crumb, look no further than the delightful Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake. This irresistible treat perfectly balances the natural sweetness of grated carrots and juicy pineapple with a luscious cream cheese frosting, making every bite a celebration of island-inspired goodness. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy afternoon indulgence, this cake promises to bring sunshine and smiles to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake just right depends on a few simple but essential ingredients, each playing a unique role in flavor, texture, and that signature tropical vibe. From the warmth of cinnamon to the subtle crunch of walnuts, these components come together in harmony.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and a soft crumb to the cake.
• 2 cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and enhances moisture retention.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise and stay light.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Works alongside baking soda to ensure fluffiness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and a subtle spicy note.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and deepens flavors.
• 1 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• 4 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
• 2 cups grated carrots: Adds natural sweetness and wonderful texture.
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained: Infuses tropical flavor and moisture.
• 1 cup shredded coconut: Enhances the island feel with chewy texture.
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional): Adds crunch and a nutty depth.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: For that tangy, creamy frosting base.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Blends with cream cheese to create smooth frosting.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds aromatic complexity and rounds the frosting flavor.

How to Make Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pans

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans so your cake layers come out perfectly without sticking. This simple first step ensures smooth removal and beautiful presentation.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all the dry essentials — flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This combination gives your cake structure, sweetness, lift, and that subtle warmth from cinnamon, setting the foundation for the recipe.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the vegetable oil and eggs until smooth and blended, providing richness and moisture. Then, stir in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and walnuts if you’re using them. These ingredients add the tropical charm and texture that make the Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake so memorable.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined—overmixing can make the cake tough, so keep it light and easy. This step ensures your batter stays airy, ready for a tender bake.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans and smooth the surfaces. Pop them into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This is the moment where your kitchen fills with that unbelievable aroma of pineapple and spice!

Step 6: Cool and Frost

Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before turning them out on wire racks to cool completely. While the cakes cool, whip up your frosting by beating softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla until fluffy and spreadable.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Spread the frosting generously on top of one cake layer, then place the second layer on top. Finish by frosting the top and sides with the remaining cream cheese mixture. For that extra island touch, sprinkle with additional shredded coconut or small pineapple pieces if you like.

How to Serve Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

Garnishes

A little goes a long way when it comes to garnishing this cake. A dusting of toasted coconut or a handful of chopped walnuts on top enhances texture and adds a lovely crunchy contrast to the smooth frosting. If you want to get fancy, thin pineapple slices arranged artfully can also brighten the presentation and add a fruity pop.

Side Dishes

Serving this cake alongside a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream turns it into a truly indulgent dessert experience. For a more relaxed, tropical vibe, pair it with a fresh fruit salad featuring mango, kiwi, and papaya, which complements the cake’s flavors while keeping things light and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning display, try stacking mini versions of the Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake as a tiered dessert centerpiece or cutting the cake into petite squares and serving them on decorative cocktail picks at parties. Wrapping the layers with edible flowers like orchids adds a gorgeous touch that amps up the island feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cream cheese frosting needs to stay cool, and chilling actually lets the flavors meld beautifully. Your cake will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it just as delicious the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake if you want to prepare it ahead of time. Wrap the cooled, unfrosted layers tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting and serving.

Reheating

Since this cake is best enjoyed cool, reheating isn’t usually recommended. However, if you want to warm a slice slightly, remove any frosting and microwave it for about 10 seconds—just enough to warm the cake without melting the frosting into a mess. Serve immediately.

FAQs

Can I substitute walnuts with another nut?

Absolutely! Pecans or macadamia nuts complement the tropical flavors beautifully and provide a similar crunch if you’re not a walnut fan or have allergies.

Is it necessary to drain the pineapple?

Yes, draining the crushed pineapple is important to prevent the batter from becoming too wet, which could affect the cake’s texture.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

With the right blend of gluten-free flours, you can certainly adapt this recipe. Just keep in mind that the texture might differ slightly, so choose a blend designed for cakes to keep it tender.

How long can I keep the cake at room temperature?

Because of the cream cheese frosting, it’s best to avoid leaving the cake out for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes! The cream cheese frosting can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Bring it back to room temperature before frosting to make spreading easier.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake that feels like a mini vacation with every bite. Its perfect balance of moist carrot goodness, tropical sweetness, and creamy frosting makes it a standout for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and savor all the warm, colorful flavors it brings to the table.

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