Description
Discover how to make a moist and flavorful Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake. This tropical twist on a classic carrot cake is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients List
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups freshly grated carrots
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp pineapple juice (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, beat the eggs with the vegetable oil and vanilla extract until well combined. Stir in the grated carrots and drained pineapple.
- Combine the Batter:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. If using, fold in the chopped nuts and shredded coconut.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake:
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer the cake to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract and pineapple juice, if using.
- Frost the Cake:
- Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the cake into squares and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
Additional Tips and Notes
- Serving Suggestions: This cake is versatile and can be served at room temperature or chilled. For an extra tropical experience, garnish each slice with a slice of fresh pineapple or a dollop of coconut whipped cream.
- Enhancing the Tropical Flavor: For an even more intense tropical flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of coconut extract to the cake batter or frosting.
- Making It Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and develop further. Simply cover the cake tightly and store it in the refrigerator.