A tropical twist on classic carrot cake that’s moist, flavorful, and perfect for any celebration!
I’ve always loved cakes that transport you to a sunny paradise—even when you’re far from the beach. This Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is one of those recipes that brings tropical vibes right into your kitchen. Imagine the delicate warmth of freshly grated carrots paired with the natural sweetness of crushed pineapple and the subtle crunch of coconut. Topped with a luscious, creamy frosting, this cake is ideal for birthdays, holidays, or just a special treat on any day. Let’s dive into this delicious, tropical delight!
Ingredients List – The Heart of the Recipe
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (optional but recommended for extra flavor)
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
For the Creamy Frosting:
(You can choose a classic cream cheese frosting or any frosting of your choice – here’s a simple cream cheese version)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2–3 cups powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream (optional, for consistency)
Interactive Checklist:
☐ 2 cups all-purpose flour
☐ 2 tsp baking powder
☐ 1 tsp baking soda
☐ 1 tsp cinnamon
☐ 1/2 tsp nutmeg
☐ 1/2 tsp salt
☐ 1 cup granulated sugar
☐ 1/2 cup brown sugar
☐ 1 cup vegetable oil
☐ 4 large eggs
☐ 2 tsp vanilla extract
☐ 2 cups grated carrots
☐ 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
☐ 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
☐ 8 oz cream cheese, softened
☐ 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
☐ 2–3 cups powdered sugar
☐ 1 tsp vanilla extract
☐ 2–3 tbsp heavy cream (optional)
Timing – Quick Prep, Delicious Outcome
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
- Chill/Frosting Time: Approximately 1 hour (or more if you prefer to serve chilled)
This cake is delightfully quick to make, so you can whip it up in time for your next celebration or whenever you’re in the mood for a tropical escape.
Step-by-Step Instructions – Your Friendly Baking Guide
1. Preheat & Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan (or line it with parchment paper for easier removal).
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. Blend the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Beat well until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine & Fold in the Flavors
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Gently fold in the grated carrots, drained crushed pineapple, and shredded coconut (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. (A slight moist crumb is acceptable—this cake stays incredibly moist!)
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare the Creamy Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and a bit of heavy cream (if using) until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Frost & Decorate
- Once the cake is completely cool, frost the top evenly with the cream cheese frosting.
- If desired, decorate with additional pineapple chunks or a light sprinkle of shredded coconut on top for an extra tropical flair.
8. Chill & Serve
- For best flavor, refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy your Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake—a true taste of the tropics!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Based on 12 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~500 kcal |
| Total Fat | 27 g |
| Carbohydrates | 55 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on the exact brands and measurements used.
Healthier Alternatives & Recipe Variations
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute dairy cream cheese and butter in the frosting with dairy-free alternatives.
- Nut-Free Version: Omit the shredded coconut and walnuts if you have nut allergies.
- Extra Flavor: For a twist, add 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger or a splash of orange juice to the batter for additional zest.
- Moisture Boost: Replace half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce if you’d like a lighter texture.
I’ve experimented with these variations over time, and every version has its own unique charm. Feel free to customize to suit your dietary needs or flavor preferences!
Expert Success Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Gentle Folding: When incorporating the grated carrots and pineapple, fold gently to keep the batter light.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can develop gluten and result in a denser cake. Mix until just combined.
- Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; a few moist crumbs are fine.
- Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerate the cake before frosting to ensure the frosting stays on beautifully.
Serving Suggestions & Storage
This cake is perfect as a festive dessert or even a mid-day treat. Here are some ideas:
- Serve with Tropical Fruits: Add a side of fresh pineapple or mango slices.
- Extra Frosting: Drizzle a little pineapple simple syrup over the cake for added moisture.
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The cake also freezes well—wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Conclusion – A Taste of the Tropics
This Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a mini vacation on your plate. The sweet pineapple, warm spices, and moist carrot cake combine for an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any celebration. Whether you’re hosting a tropical-themed party or simply want to brighten up your day, this cake promises to deliver smiles and a taste of island paradise with every bite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with us using #erinrecipes!