Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is a delicious tropical twist on the classic carrot cake, combining the natural sweetness of carrots with juicy crushed pineapple for an incredibly moist and flavorful dessert. This cake is soft, rich, and perfectly balanced with warm spices and a creamy, tangy frosting that ties everything together.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 cups finely grated carrots
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained slightly)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
For Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Oven and Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch pan or two round cake pans.Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.Step 4: Add Carrots and Pineapple
Fold in grated carrots and crushed pineapple. This gives the cake its signature moisture and texture.Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in nuts and coconut if using.Step 6: Bake
Pour batter into prepared pan(s) and bake for 35–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.Step 7: Cool Completely
Allow cake to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting.Step 8: Make Frosting
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.Step 9: Frost the Cake
Spread frosting evenly over cooled cake. Decorate with nuts or coconut if desired.