Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake 🍍🥕


 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✨ Tropical Twist: Crushed pineapple adds natural sweetness and moisture, giving this cake an island-inspired flavor.
💛 Moist & Flavorful: Shredded carrots and pineapple create a soft, tender crumb in every bite.
🍂 Warmly Spiced: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger perfectly complement the cake’s sweetness.
🧁 Decadent Frosting: A luscious cream cheese frosting ties it all together.
👩‍🍳 Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this perfect for all skill levels.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • 1 tsp baking soda

  • ½ tsp salt

  • 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon

  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

  • ¼ tsp ground ginger

  • 3 large eggs, room temperature

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • ½ cup packed brown sugar

  • ¾ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil for a tropical touch)

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1 ½ cups finely shredded carrots (about 2–3 medium carrots)

  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice for another use)

  • ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 3–4 cups powdered sugar, sifted

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Batter

  1. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.

  2. Stir in vegetable oil and vanilla extract.

  3. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing gently. Avoid overmixing.

  4. Fold in shredded carrots, crushed pineapple, and nuts (if using).

Step 4: Bake

  1. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and smooth the tops.

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

  3. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

  1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.

  2. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy.

  3. Stir in vanilla and salt. Adjust sweetness as needed.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a thick layer of frosting on top.

  2. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides.

  3. Optional: Garnish with toasted coconut, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Why This Recipe Works

🍍 Pineapple Keeps It Moist: Natural fruit juices ensure a tender texture.
🥕 Carrot Magic: Finely shredded carrots blend beautifully into the batter.
🍂 Perfect Spice Blend: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger create a cozy, aromatic cake.
🧁 Cream Cheese Frosting: Tangy and sweet, it balances the spiced layers perfectly.

Variations to Try

🥥 Coconut Infusion: Add ½ cup shredded coconut for a more tropical flavor.
🌾 Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
🌱 Dairy-Free Version: Swap in plant-based cream cheese and butter.
🍰 Sheet Cake Style: Bake in a 9x13-inch pan for a simple, single-layer cake.
🧁 Cupcake Version: Use a muffin tin for individual treats!

Tips for Success

✔ Drain the Pineapple Well: Too much moisture can make the cake dense. Pat it dry before adding.
✔ Avoid Overmixing: Overworking the batter can result in a dense cake. Mix just until combined.
✔ Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Serving Ideas

🌸 Elegant Touch: Garnish with edible flowers or a dusting of powdered sugar.
☕ Brunch Delight: Serve with coffee, tea, or fresh juice for a morning treat.
🎉 Party Favorite: Pair with cookies, brownies, or fruit tarts for a dessert spread.

Final Thoughts

This Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is a perfect blend of tropical sweetness and classic comfort. The moist crumb, warm spices, and rich frosting make it a must-try recipe. Whether for a special occasion or a simple indulgence, this cake is sure to impress.

🌟 Have you tried a tropical twist on carrot cake? Share your favorite variations below!