Name: Delightful Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake to Treasure
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Provides structure and a soft crumb); 2 teaspoons baking powder (Helps the cake rise beautifully); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Works alongside acidic ingredients); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Adds warmth and depth); 0.5 teaspoon salt (Balances the sweetness); 1.5 cups granulated sugar (Adds sweetness and moisture); 4 large eggs (Binds the ingredients together); 1 cup vegetable oil (Keeps the cake moist); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (Adds aromatic sweetness); 2 cups grated carrots (Introduces natural sweetness); 1 cup crushed pineapple (Infuses the cake with tropical flavor); 1 cup chopped walnuts (Optional for added crunch); 8 ounces cream cheese (Base of the frosting); 0.5 cup unsalted butter (Adds richness to the frosting); 4 cups powdered sugar (Sweetens the frosting); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Enhances the flavor)

The aroma of baking cake can instantly whisk you away to a sun-kissed paradise. When I first tried a slice of Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake, I was captivated by its moist texture and tropical flavors. This delightful dessert combines grated carrots with the sweetness of crushed pineapple, offering a refreshing twist on the classic carrot cake. Not only is this recipe incredibly easy to whip up, but it’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—perfect for everything from festive gatherings to cozy family dinners. And let’s not forget that luscious cream cheese frosting that truly ties the whole experience together! Curious to learn how to create this tropical delight in your own kitchen? Let’s get baking!

Why is this cake a tropical delight?

Moist, Tropical Flavor: Infused with the sweetness of grated carrots and crushed pineapple, each bite transports you to a sunny paradise.
Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake is a breeze to make. You’ll love how quickly it comes together!
Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday or a cozy family dinner, this cake impresses and delights everyone at the table.
Luscious Cream Cheese Frosting: The rich, creamy frosting adds a perfect finishing touch, elevating the cake’s tropical charm.
Thrilling Texture: It’s light and fluffy, offering a satisfying contrast to the velvety frosting. For a fun twist, check out our recipe for Zucchini Coffee Cake that provides a similar moist texture!

Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and a soft crumb; essential for achieving that perfect moistness.
Baking Powder – This leavening agent helps the cake rise beautifully.
Baking Soda – Works alongside acidic ingredients, ensuring a light texture in the Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth; it enhances the tropical flavors wonderfully.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors perfectly.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; feel free to reduce it slightly for less sweetness.
Eggs – Binds all ingredients together and contributes to the cake’s richness.
Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake moist; swap for melted coconut oil for an extra tropical flair!
Vanilla Extract – Essential for adding aromatic sweetness and depth of flavor.
Grated Carrots – Introduces natural sweetness and moisture, making the cake extra tender.
Crushed Pineapple – Infuses the cake with delightful tropical flavor; fresh pineapple or applesauce can be used as alternatives.
Chopped Walnuts (optional) – For added crunch and nutty flavor; can be skipped for those with nut allergies.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese – The base of the frosting, offering tanginess and creaminess that complement the cake perfectly.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and smooth consistency to your frosting.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting and ensures it has a silky texture; adjust according to your desired sweetness.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor, making this frosting truly irresistible.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re one step closer to making a delicious Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake that will wow your family and friends!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

Step 1: Prep Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk everything together until well blended, creating a light and airy base for your Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake. Set the bowl aside while you work on the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat together 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar, 4 large eggs, 1 cup of vegetable oil, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is light and creamy. This step adds moisture and sweetness, setting the foundation for your cake’s delightful texture.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently to combine them. Mix until just incorporated to avoid overmixing, which can result in a dense cake. This step ensures the flavors meld together beautifully, creating the perfect batter for your Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake.

Step 4: Add Carrots and Pineapple
Fold in 2 cups of grated carrots and 1 cup of crushed pineapple—drained for less moisture, if desired—along with chopped walnuts if you’re using them. Use a spatula to gently mix these ingredients until they are barely combined. This adds a burst of tropical flavor and moistness to your cake, making each bite a true delight.

Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly. Place the pan into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30-40 minutes. You’ll know your Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 6: Cool
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This is a crucial step to ensure your cake retains its fluffy texture and prevents the frosting from melting off when you’re ready to frost.

Step 7: Make Frosting
While the cake cools, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, ½ cup of unsalted butter, 4 cups of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy, taking about 2-3 minutes. This delicious frosting will elevate your Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake to new levels of sweetness.

Step 8: Frost
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Use a spatula for a smooth finish, and feel free to garnish with pineapple chunks or shredded carrots for a colorful touch. This decorative step will enhance the visual appeal of your delightful Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake, making it irresistible to the eye and palate!

Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake Variations

Feel free to personalize your Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake with these delightful updates that will tantalize your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with coconut cream for a rich, tropical frosting that’s vegan-friendly. Your guests will enjoy the luscious, creamy texture without the dairy!
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend for an equally delicious cake without the gluten. This ensures everyone can indulge in this tropical delight.
Tropical Twist: Add 1 cup of shredded coconut to the batter for an extra layer of sweetness and texture. Combining flavors brings a sunshine-filled vibe, reminiscent of a beach vacation!
Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon into the batter for a fresh, zesty kick. This adds a burst of brightness that beautifully complements the other ingredients.
Nutty Variation: Use pecans instead of walnuts to change up the flavor profile. Pecan’s buttery notes perfectly enhance the moistness of the cake and create a delightful crunch.
Heat Upgrade: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few teaspoons of crushed red pepper to the batter for a surprising warmth that perfectly balances the sweetness. Your friends will love this unexpected twist!
Fruity Fusion: Mix in 1 cup of diced mango or chopped bananas with the grated carrots and crushed pineapple. This beautiful combination will make your cake shine even more with tropical fruit flavors!
Frosting Fancies: Substitute half the cream cheese with mascarpone cheese for a more decadent frosting. This elevates your cream cheese frosting to a whole new level of creamy indulgence.

Don’t stop here! If you love the idea of adding a fruity twist to your treats, try making our Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake or dive into a slice of our popular Snickerdoodle Bundt Cake. Each variation is just a delicious adventure waiting to happen!

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

Room Temperature: Store the unfrosted cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. This keeps it moist and fresh.

Fridge: Keep any leftover Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully, making it even tastier!

Freezer: Wrap the unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting.

Reheating: If preferred warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Enjoy your tropical treat any time!

Make Ahead Options

This Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is perfect for busy weeknights and can be prepped in advance to save you time! You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully. Alternatively, bake the cake and allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For even longer storage, you can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. To maintain its moistness, be sure to cover it well. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost the chilled or thawed cake with the cream cheese frosting, and enjoy a tropical treat that’s just as delightful as when it was freshly made!

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting and sliding off your cake.
Mixing Caution: Avoid overmixing the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. This keeps the Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake fluffy and light rather than dense.
Flavor Enhancements: For a richer tropical flavor, consider adding shredded coconut or swapping in melted coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for the batter.
Pineapple Drainage: Drain the crushed pineapple well to prevent excess moisture. This allows the cake to bake properly while maintaining its delightful flavor.
Storage Advice: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will stay moist for several days. Enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

The joy of a tropical cake brings to mind sunshine and delightful gatherings; let’s explore some perfect pairings to enhance this experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of tropical fruits like mango, kiwi, and berries complements the cake’s flavors, adding freshness and texture to your dessert table.
Coconut Whipped Cream: This light and airy topping adds a creamy texture that elevates each slice of cake into the realm of indulgence. It harmonizes beautifully with the tropical essence of the cake.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a cooling contrast to the warm spices of the cake, creating a comforting combination that everyone loves.
Iced Herbal Tea: A refreshing mint or hibiscus-infused tea delivers a burst of invigorating flavor, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the cake with each sip.
Grilled Pineapple Slices: Caramelized and warm, grilled pineapple brings an extra layer of tropical flavor that enhances the cake’s fruity notes while adding an excellent smoky sweetness.
Chocolate Ganache: For a luxurious twist, drizzle rich chocolate ganache on top of each slice. The bittersweet chocolate will play off the cake’s sugariness wonderfully.
Candied Walnuts: These offer a crunchy contrast to the soft cake texture, plus they echo the nuts in the batter while providing a sweet, nutty flavor that enhances every bite.
Mango Sorbet: Light and refreshing, mango sorbet cleanses the palate between bites, complementing the cake while also offering a fruity indulgence.

This delightful combination makes for a truly celebratory experience that invites everyone to enjoy the tropical vibes!

Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of carrots should I use for the cake?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose fresh, firm carrots without any dark spots. Baby carrots work well too; just shred them finely. The key is to ensure they are sweet and moist for optimal flavor!

How should I store leftover cake?
To keep your Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It will stay moist and flavorful, and many say the taste improves after a day in the fridge!

Can I freeze Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake?
Very! To freeze the cake, wrap the unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before frosting it with cream cheese icing.

What should I do if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
If your cake doesn’t rise, it may be due to expired baking powder or baking soda. Double-check the freshness of these leavening agents before baking. Also, ensure not to overmix the batter; mix just until combined for a fluffy texture!

Is this cake suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! You can easily adjust the recipe to omit the chopped walnuts, making it nut-free for those with allergies. If you’re unsure, always check with your guests beforehand to confirm there’s no nut exposure.

Can I substitute the crushed pineapple with something else?
Certainly! If you prefer, you can swap the crushed pineapple with finely diced fresh pineapple for a more intense flavor. Unsweetened applesauce is also a great alternative, adding moisture while keeping the cake delightful!