Name: Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake for a Tropical Escape
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 pinch salt; 1 cup vegetable oil; 4 large eggs; 2 cups grated carrots; 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained well); 1 cup shredded coconut (toasted optional); 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional); 8 ounces cream cheese (softened); ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

As I sifted through my pantry, hoping to conjure up a little tropical magic, I stumbled upon a can of crushed pineapple and a bag of carrots, and an idea was born. Enter the Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake—a delightful twist on a classic that’s sure to brighten your day! This recipe harmoniously marries the sweetness of juicy pineapple, the warmth of cinnamon, and the enticing nuttiness of shredded coconut, making it a true crowd-pleaser. And if you’re seeking something that’s both quick to whip up and perfect for any occasion, this cake ticks all the boxes. Picture a cozy afternoon, a slice of this cake in hand, and you’re transported to sandy beaches with every bite. Want to add a splash of tropical joy to your baking repertoire? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!

What makes this cake so special?

Tropical Escape: The combination of crushed pineapple and shredded coconut offers a refreshing taste that transports you straight to a Hawaiian paradise. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be enjoying this cake in no time. Moist and Flavorful: Each slice is bursting with moisture, thanks to the carrots and pineapple—perfect for a delightful treat at any gathering. Versatile Delight: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a cozy afternoon, this Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is always a crowd-pleaser, just like our Lemon Velvet Cake or Basque Burnt Cheesecake. Creamy Frosting: Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, it adds a rich finishing touch. You’ll find yourself going back for seconds—this cake is just that irresistible!

Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake Ingredients

• Get ready to create a tropical masterpiece!

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure you need for a tender cake.
Granulated Sugar – Adds the perfect level of sweetness to balance the flavors.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for that delightful rise in your cake.
Baking Powder – Enhances leavening, contributing to a light, airy texture.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice that complements the other tropical flavors.
Salt – Highlights and enhances the overall taste of the cake.
Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake moist and adds richness to each bite.
Large Eggs – Essential for binding and providing structure to your cake.
Grated Carrots – Adds moisture, natural sweetness, and a nutritious touch.
Crushed Pineapple – Brings juicy sweetness and moisture; ensure it’s drained well to avoid a soggy cake!
Shredded Coconut – Infuses texture and tropical flavor; try toasting it for an extra crunch.
Chopped Walnuts (optional) – Introduces a delightful crunch and enhances richness.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese – The star of the frosting, creating a creamy, luscious base.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps achieve that smooth frosting texture.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and provides structure to your frosting, making it perfectly spreadable.
Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor profile and adds depth to the frosting.

This Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans with non-stick spray or butter. Ensure your pans are adequately coated to prevent the cake from sticking. This step sets the stage for a perfect bake, so don’t skip it!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This blend of dry ingredients will provide the structure and flavor for your Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake, creating a harmonious foundation.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of vegetable oil and 4 large eggs until well blended. Stir in 2 cups of grated carrots, 1 cup of drained crushed pineapple, and 1 cup of shredded coconut (and optional 1 cup of chopped walnuts, if desired). These wet ingredients infuse moisture and tropical flavors, making your cake irresistibly delicious.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, being careful not to overmix. Just combine until no dry flour remains visible, ensuring you maintain a tender texture for your Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake. Overmixing could lead to a dense cake, so be light-handed!

Step 5: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Place the pans in your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Keep an eye on your cakes, and they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling they’re perfectly baked.

Step 6: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer the cakes to wire racks to cool completely. Cooling them properly ensures a fluffy and moist texture for your Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake, ready for frosting!

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
While the cakes cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and ½ cup of unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. The frosting will complement the tropical flavors of your cake, making each slice a true delight.

Step 8: Finish the Frosting
Gradually add 3 cups of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until fluffy and well combined. This creamy frosting is the perfect finishing touch for your Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake, providing richness and flavor to every bite.

Step 9: Frost the Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cool, spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting between the two layers. Then, frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. Optionally, garnish with extra shredded coconut or crushed pineapple for a beautiful tropical presentation.

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

• Drain Pineapple Well: Ensure the crushed pineapple is thoroughly drained to avoid a soggy cake that can ruin the texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold wet and dry ingredients together to keep the cake’s crumb tender; overmixing can lead to a dense Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake.

• Toast Coconut: For extra flavor, consider toasting the shredded coconut before adding it to the batter; this enhances its nutty profile beautifully.

• Cool Completely: Allow cake layers to cool completely before frosting; this prevents the frosting from melting and losing its creamy texture.

• Make Ahead: Don’t hesitate to prepare cake layers in advance; they freeze well un-frosted for up to 2 months—just thaw before frosting and serving.

What to Serve with Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

Bring the essence of the tropics to your table with these delightful pairings.

Creamy Coconut Ice Cream: This silky-smooth treat enhances the coconut flavors in the cake, creating a heavenly combination that feels indulgent yet refreshing.
Tropical Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of mango, kiwi, and pineapple adds a fresh bite that contrasts nicely with the richness of the cake. The sweetness from the fruits amplifies the tropical theme.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream topped with toasted coconut brings a fabulous creaminess to your cake, elevating your dessert experience.
Pineapple Juice: A chilled glass of sweet, tangy pineapple juice not only complements the cake but also offers an extra burst of tropical delight and hydration.
Vanilla Custard: The smooth texture and subtle sweetness of vanilla custard provide a perfect balance to the rich flavors of the Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake and can elevate your dessert presentation.
Chocolate-Covered Macadamia Nuts: These crunchy, sweet treats provide a delightful contrast to the soft cake, while their tropical roots resonate perfectly with the cake’s flavors.
Sparkling Water with Lime: For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, add a splash of lime to sparkling water—it cleanses the palate and enhances the cake’s tropical notes, making every bite even more enjoyable.

Storage Tips for Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

Room Temperature: Wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, this cake keeps fresh for about 1-2 days. Enjoy it at its best without refrigeration for daytime treats!

Fridge: If you have leftovers, store the Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, unfrosted cake layers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: If you want to enjoy a slice warm, pop it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will enhance the tropical flavors and give that freshly-baked feel!

Make Ahead Options

Busy home cooks, rejoice! The Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor its delightful flavors without the rush. You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance—simply bake, cool, and then wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator to maintain moisture. For even longer storage, un-frosted layers can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and then whip up the cream cheese frosting; frosted and garnished, your cake will be just as delicious as if made fresh. This planning ahead means you can enjoy the tropical taste with minimal effort on busy days!

Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake Variations

Let your creativity soar as you customize this delightful cake to suit your tastes and preferences!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free cream cheese for frosting, creating a delicious plant-based version.
Tropical Nut Boost: Add macadamia nuts for an extra crunch and a wholly tropical flavor that complements the cake beautifully. The rich flavor of macadamias pairs effortlessly with the sweetness of pineapple.
Coconut Cream Frosting: Swap out cream cheese frosting for coconut cream frosting to enhance the tropical vibe and keep it light and fluffy.
Caramel Drizzle: Elevate the cake’s sweetness with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce on top, adding an indulgent layer of flavor that will impress your guests.
Fruit Fusion: Mix in freshly diced mango or banana for additional fruity goodness; this will bring your cake to a whole new level of tropical delight! The combination of flavors will transport you to paradise with every bite.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger to the batter for a touch of warmth, balancing out the sweetness of the cake with a subtle heat that tantalizes the palate.
Cupcake Twist: Transform the batter into cupcakes by baking in muffin tins for 18-20 minutes; perfect for a portable dessert option that everyone will love. Serve with a dollop of frosting for an easy, delightful treat!

Let your imagination guide you as you explore these fun variations, just like how we love turning classic recipes into magical treats, whether it’s with our Protein Pancakes Healthy or Hawaiian Roll French. Happy baking!

Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of crushed pineapple should I use for the cake?
Absolutely! Use canned crushed pineapple packed in juice, as it provides the right level of sweetness and moisture. Just be sure to drain it well before adding it to the batter to prevent a soggy cake. The more the merrier when it comes to flavors, but excess liquid can lead to a dense crumb!

How should I store leftovers of the Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake?
For room temperature storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for about 1-2 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor even after a few days!

Can I freeze Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake?
Yes! You can freeze unfrosted layers for up to 2 months. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before frosting. It’s a magic trick I often employ when prepping for festive occasions!

How can I avoid a dense cake texture?
Very important! To ensure a light and fluffy Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake, gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing as that can develop the gluten in the flour, making your cake dense rather than airy. Take it easy on the mixing, and you’ll be rewarded with a tender cake!

Are there any dietary considerations for this cake?
If you’re making this cake for a gathering that includes guests with dietary restrictions, fear not! You can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to make it suitable for your gluten-sensitive friends. Additionally, if you want to make it nut-free, simply leave out the walnuts—they’re optional, and the cake will still be delightful. Always a good idea to check ingredient labels for allergies, especially when serving pets!