Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake 

If you’re looking for a cake that perfectly balances sweetness and warmth, the Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is an ideal choice. This moist and flavorful cake combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the wholesome richness of grated carrots, all brought together with a touch of warm spices. Finished with a creamy frosting, this cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Gradually add vegetable oil and vanilla extract to the egg mixture, mixing well.
5. Fold in grated carrots and crushed pineapple until evenly combined.
6. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
7. Pour the batter evenly into prepared cake pans.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Remove cakes from the oven and let cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
10. For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
11. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy.
12. Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread frosting evenly between the layers and over the top and sides of the cake.
13. Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to set the frosting.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve the Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake at room temperature to fully enjoy its moist texture and rich flavors. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a great dessert for celebrations, family gatherings, or casual get-togethers.

To store, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, the cake will stay fresh for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cake layers in the refrigerator overnight, then apply frosting before serving. This helps maintain the cake’s moisture and flavor.

Variations

1. Nutty Delight
   Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the cake batter for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the pineapple and carrots. Toasting the nuts lightly before adding will deepen their flavor.
2. Coconut Infusion
   Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded sweetened or unsweetened coconut into the batter. This enhances the tropical vibe of the cake, adding chewy texture and extra sweetness. You can also sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top of the frosting for a beautiful finish.
3. Pineapple Upside-Down Style
   Before pouring the batter into the pans, layer pineapple rings and a few maraschino cherries at the bottom of the cake pan with a bit of brown sugar and butter. When the cake is baked and inverted, you get a delicious pineapple-topped presentation with caramelized fruit.
4. Spice It Up
   Increase the cinnamon to 1 1/2 teaspoons and add 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger or allspice for a more pronounced warm spice flavor that complements the tropical sweetness beautifully.
5. Lighter Frosting Option
   Replace the cream cheese frosting with a whipped cream frosting or a simple dusting of powdered sugar to lighten the cake’s richness. For a tangier touch, try a lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice drizzled over the top.
6. Vegan Version
   Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based cream cheese and butter alternative for the frosting. Replace sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a healthier twist.
7. Gluten-Free Adaptation
   Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free certified for the best results.

These variations allow you to customize the Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake to your taste preferences or dietary needs while maintaining its delicious moistness and tropical charm.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned pineapple for this cake?
   Yes, canned crushed pineapple works perfectly. Just be sure to drain it well to avoid adding excess moisture to the batter.
2. How do I keep the cake moist?
   Using grated carrots and crushed pineapple adds natural moisture. Avoid overbaking and store the cake properly covered to maintain softness.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and frost them the next day. Just keep the layers wrapped tightly to prevent drying out.
4. What is the best way to grate carrots for the cake?
   Use a box grater or food processor with a grating attachment to finely shred the carrots for even texture in the cake.
5. Can I freeze the frosted cake?
   It’s better to freeze the cake layers unfrosted. Freeze wrapped tightly, then thaw before frosting and serving.
6. Can I substitute the cream cheese frosting?
   Yes, you can use buttercream, whipped cream frosting, or a simple glaze depending on your preference.
7. Is this cake suitable for special diets?
   With modifications, yes. For vegan or gluten-free diets, substitute ingredients accordingly as outlined in the variations section.
8. How long does the cake last at room temperature?
   Due to the cream cheese frosting, it’s best to keep the cake refrigerated and consume within 3-4 days.
9. Can I add nuts or coconut?
   Yes, adding chopped nuts or shredded coconut enhances texture and flavor. Just fold them gently into the batter.
10. What size cake pans should I use?
    Two 9-inch round cake pans are recommended for even baking and layering. You can also use a 9×13-inch pan but adjust baking time accordingly.

The Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the comforting flavors of carrot cake with the sweet brightness of pineapple. Its moist texture, warm spices, and creamy frosting make it a standout choice for any occasion. Easy to prepare and sure to please, this cake is a must-try for anyone who loves flavorful, tropical-inspired treats.

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