Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is a tropical twist on the classic carrot cake, combining the natural sweetness of carrots with the juicy, tangy flavor of pineapple. This moist and flavorful cake is infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, making it a comforting yet refreshing dessert. The addition of crushed pineapple enhances the texture, keeping the cake soft and tender while adding a subtle tropical flair. Whether served plain or topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for celebrations, potlucks, or simply indulging in a slice of paradise.
Ingredients:
Dry Ingredients:
- 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
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup shredded coconut
- ½ cup raisins
For the Frosting (Optional):
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare 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: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Stir in the grated carrots and crushed pineapple.
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- If using walnuts, coconut, or raisins, fold them in gently.
Step 5: 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.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 6: Prepare the Frosting (Optional)
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until creamy.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
- Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting on one cake.
- Place the second cake on top and frost the entire cake.
- Garnish with shredded coconut or chopped nuts if desired.
- Slice and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Moist & Flavorful: The combination of carrots and pineapple keeps the cake soft and tender.
- Tropical Twist: A refreshing take on traditional carrot cake.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for birthdays, holidays, or casual gatherings.
- Customizable: Add nuts, coconut, or raisins for extra texture.
Would you like variations, such as making it gluten-free or adding a pineapple glaze? 😊 You can find more details here and here.