Indulge in a tropical twist on a classic dessert with this Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake. This moist and flavorful cake combines the natural sweetness of grated carrots and crushed pineapple, enhanced with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The tropical flavors shine through, making it a perfect treat for celebrations or a cozy weekend bake. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is a delightful fusion of comfort and island-inspired goodness.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon pineapple juice (optional, for extra tropical flavor)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This ensures the spices are evenly distributed throughout the cake.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat together vegetable oil and eggs until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 4: Add Carrots and Pineapple
Fold in the grated carrots and crushed pineapple into the wet mixture. If using walnuts, add them at this stage for extra texture.
Step 5: Mix Everything Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool the Cake
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by vanilla extract and pineapple juice. Beat until creamy and well combined.
Step 9: Assemble and Frost
Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
For an extra tropical touch, sprinkle shredded coconut or chopped walnuts on top. Slice and enjoy this Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake with a cup of tea or coffee!
Tips for the Best Cake:
- Drain the pineapple well to prevent excess moisture in the batter.
- Use freshly grated carrots for the best texture and flavor.
- Chill the cake for 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Add shredded coconut to the batter for an extra tropical flair.
This cake is a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and tropical goodness—a must-try for any dessert lover! 🍍🥕
Would you like variations or additional tips for presentation? 😊