Hawaiian Pineapple Carrot Cream Cake Recipe

The Perfect Hawaiian Pineapple Carrot Cream Cake Recipe for Summer

Sweet memories of tropical breezes dance through this Hawaiian pineapple carrot cream cake that promises pure deliciousness.

Sunshine-kissed ingredients blend seamlessly into a remarkable dessert bursting with natural sweetness.

Crisp carrots and juicy pineapple create unexpected magic in each tender slice.

Creamy frosting adds a luxurious touch that melts beautifully on your palate.

Hints of warm spices whisper exotic stories from pacific islands.

Baking this cake feels like a delightful culinary adventure waiting to unfold.

One bite transports you to a relaxed, vibrant landscape where flavors sing with joy.

Storage Tips for Hawaiian Pineapple Carrot Cream Cake

  • Store the frosted cake in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Seal tightly to prevent drying out and absorbing other food odors.
  • Wrap the entire cake securely in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Cut individual cake slices, wrap each separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for 1-2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before enjoying.
  • Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaiian Pineapple Carrot Cream Cake

  • Can I make this cake without nuts?

Yes, simply omit the walnuts or pecans from the recipe. The cake will still taste delicious and have a great texture.

  • Is it okay to use canned pineapple?

Absolutely! Drain the crushed pineapple well before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture. Fresh or canned both work perfectly.

  • How do I know if my cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean with no wet batter, your cake is done. The top should also be golden brown and slightly springy to touch.

  • Can I substitute vegetable oil with another type of oil?

You can use canola oil or melted coconut oil as alternatives. Each will slightly change the cake’s flavor but maintain similar moisture and texture.

Why Hawaiian Pineapple Carrot Cream Cake Is a Crowd Favorite

  • Discover Tropical Delight: Indulge in a unique cake that blends the sweetness of pineapple with the earthiness of carrots, creating a tropical paradise in every bite.
  • Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: This recipe requires simple mixing and basic baking skills, making it perfect for home bakers of all experience levels.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Celebration Cake: Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or family gatherings, this cake guarantees smiles and second helpings from everyone around the table.
  • Nutritious Dessert Twist: Packed with carrots and optional nuts, this cake offers a sneaky way to add some healthy ingredients to a delectable dessert.

Ingredients Needed for Hawaiian Pineapple Carrot Cream Cake

Main Dry Ingredients:
  • Flour: The base that provides structure for the cake.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with cake texture.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
  • Baking Soda: Assists in leavening and browning of the cake.
  • Cinnamon: Provides warm, aromatic flavor to the cake.
  • Salt: Enhances and balances the overall taste.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add moisture to the cake.
  • Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
  • Grated Carrots: Adds natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.
  • Crushed Pineapple: Contributes tropical flavor and additional moisture.
Optional Mix-Ins:
  • Shredded Coconut, Chopped Walnuts, Chopped Pecans: Provide extra texture and nutty flavor.
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese, Butter: Create a rich and creamy base for the frosting.
  • Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps thicken the frosting.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor to the frosting.
  • Milk: Adjusts the frosting's consistency for smooth spreading.

How to Bake Hawaiian Pineapple Carrot Cream Cake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Turn your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grab two 9-inch round cake pans and coat them with cooking spray or butter, then dust with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Blend Dry Ingredients

Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk everything together until perfectly combined and smooth.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Mixture

In a separate bowl, crack open eggs and beat them until light and fluffy. Then add:
  • Vegetable oil
  • Grated carrots
  • Crushed pineapple
  • Shredded coconut (optional)

Mix all ingredients until they’re well incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Cake Batter

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. If you’re using nuts, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans at this point.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Slide the pans into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean. Let the cakes rest in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 6: Whip Up Cream Cheese Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix thoroughly. Stir in vanilla extract and a splash of milk to reach your desired frosting consistency.

Step 7: Assemble Your Masterpiece

Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Carefully position the second cake layer. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake generously. Your Hawaiian Pineapple Carrot Cream Cake is ready to delight!

Pro Tips for Hawaiian Pineapple Carrot Cream Cake

  • Choose ripe, sweet pineapples for the most intense tropical flavor and natural sweetness in your cake.
  • Drain crushed pineapple thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the cake soggy and dense.
  • Grate carrots finely to ensure even distribution and smooth texture throughout the cake layers.
  • Toast chopped nuts briefly before adding to enhance their nutty flavor and provide extra crunch to the cake.
  • Store cream cheese frosting at room temperature for easier spreading and a smoother application on cake layers.

Delicious Variations of Hawaiian Pineapple Carrot Cream Cake

  • Tropical Paradise Cake: Replace shredded coconut with macadamia nuts and add a layer of passion fruit glaze between cake layers for extra island flavor.
  • Spiced Autumn Cake: Incorporate ground nutmeg and ginger into the dry mix, swap pineapple with apple chunks, and garnish with candied pecans.
  • Gluten-Free Wellness Cake: Use almond flour instead of wheat flour, add chia seeds for nutrition, and swap vegetable oil with coconut oil for a healthier version.
  • Protein Power Cake: Mix in vanilla protein powder with dry ingredients, add Greek yogurt to wet ingredients, and top with protein-rich almond butter cream frosting.

Pairing Ideas for Hawaiian Pineapple Carrot Cream Cake

  • Flavor-Boosting Beverage Pairing: Brew a light and refreshing Hawaiian-style iced tea with a hint of pineapple and coconut to complement the cake's tropical notes.
  • Tropical Cocktail Companion: Mix a classic Mai Tai with rum, orange curaçao, lime juice, and orgeat syrup to echo the cake's Hawaiian-inspired flavors and add a festive touch.
  • Creamy Contrast Drink: Serve a cold glass of macadamia nut milk, which provides a smooth, nutty undertone that balances the cake's sweet cream cheese frosting and adds another Hawaiian-inspired element.
  • Dessert Wine Delight: Choose a sweet Riesling with tropical fruit undertones, which will harmonize beautifully with the pineapple and carrot cake's complex flavor profile.
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Hawaiian Pineapple Carrot Cream Cake Recipe

Hawaiian Pineapple Carrot Cream Cake Recipe


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4.5 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 45-55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sweet Hawaiian Pineapple Carrot Cream Cake brings tropical sunshine to classic comfort desserts, blending tangy pineapple with warm spices. Rich cream cheese frosting and moist carrot layers invite delightful indulgence for anyone craving a slice of paradise.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 cups grated carrots
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple

Spices and Leavening Agents:

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 24 tablespoons milk (to reach desired consistency)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the baking environment by heating the oven to 350F (175C) and coating two 9-inch round cake pans with grease and flour to prevent sticking.
  2. Create a dry ingredient blend by whisking flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a large mixing bowl until thoroughly integrated.
  3. Develop a wet mixture by beating eggs, then incorporating vegetable oil, freshly grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and optional shredded coconut until smooth and well-combined.
  4. Merge wet and dry ingredients by gradually folding the liquid components into the dry mixture, stirring until just incorporated. Gently fold in optional chopped walnuts or pecans.
  5. Transfer batter evenly between prepared cake pans, ensuring uniform distribution. Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted centrally emerges clean.
  6. Allow cakes to rest in pans for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer to wire cooling racks to reach room temperature completely.
  7. Craft cream cheese frosting by whipping softened cream cheese and butter until silky and uniform in texture.
  8. Enhance frosting by gradually introducing powdered sugar, mixing thoroughly. Incorporate vanilla extract and minimal milk to achieve desired spreading consistency.
  9. Construct the cake by positioning first layer on a serving plate, spreading a thick layer of cream cheese frosting.
  10. Complete the cake by positioning second layer atop the frosted base, then generously coating the entire cake’s surface with remaining frosting.

Notes

  • Consider draining pineapple thoroughly to prevent excess moisture making cake soggy.
  • Use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter and better cake texture.
  • Grate carrots finely to ensure even distribution and soft cake crumb.
  • Replace walnuts with sunflower seeds for nut-free version or add extra coconut for crunch.
  • Reduce sugar by 25% and use Greek yogurt instead of oil for healthier alternative.
  • Allow cream cheese to soften naturally at room temperature for easier mixing.
  • Store cake in refrigerator due to cream cheese frosting, bringing to room temperature before serving.
  • Check cake doneness early to avoid overbaking, which can make cake dry.
  • Prep Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 406 kcal
  • Sugar: 34 g
  • Sodium: 167 mg
  • Fat: 23 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 47 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 51 mg
Samantha Lee

Samantha Lee

Recipe Developer & Content Creator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipes, Recipe testing and development, Food blogging and digital content creation, Culinary education and workshops​

Education

Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Emphasized plant-based cooking, global cuisines, and recipe testing methodologies.​

Samantha sees cooking like painting, every fresh herb, every juicy tomato, a new splash of color on a canvas.
After graduating from Oregon Culinary Institute, she blended her love of global cuisines and plant-based cooking into recipes that feel fresh, fearless, and full of heart.
Samantha’s kitchen is a place where comfort food gets a modern remix and every meal feels like a little adventure. When she’s not cooking, she’s out exploring farmers’ markets, sketching new recipe ideas, or getting her hands dirty in a community garden.

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