Introduction
If sunshine were a dessert, it would taste exactly like this Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake. Moist, warmly spiced, and bursting with the natural sweetness of crushed pineapple and fresh carrots, this cake delivers the cozy familiarity of classic carrot cake with a bright, tropical twist. Topped with a thick layer of tangy cream cheese frosting, it’s the kind of cake that disappears quickly—whether it’s Easter, a spring brunch, or just your average Tuesday.
Why I Love This Cake
- 🍍 Tropical twist: Crushed pineapple brings sweetness and moisture
- 🥕 Carrot cake comfort: Classic flavors you already love
- 🧁 Layered & frosted: Two layers of moist cake + dreamy cream cheese frosting
- 👩🍳 Beginner-friendly: No fancy equipment needed—just mix and bake
- 🎉 Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, brunch, or holidays
If you’ve ever fallen in love with these chocolate chip cookie dough brownie bombs or the iconic Easter cookies, this vibrant cake will be your new obsession.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
✅ Step 1: Prep the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.
✅ Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt
- Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger
✅ Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
Add to the dry mixture:
- Oil and eggs
- Mix until smooth and well combined
Stir in:
- Grated carrots
- Crushed pineapple
- Vanilla extract
- Chopped walnuts (if using)
✅ Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Divide batter evenly between the two prepared pans.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
✅ Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
- Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Beat until fluffy and spreadable.
✅ Step 6: Assemble and Frost
- Place one cooled cake layer on a plate or cake stand.
- Spread with frosting, top with second layer, and frost the top and sides.
- Optionally, sprinkle with more chopped walnuts or toasted coconut for garnish.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly grated carrots for best texture
- Make sure the pineapple is well-drained to avoid soggy batter
- Chill the frosting for 10 minutes for easier spreading
- This cake can be made one day ahead—it gets even better after resting
What to Serve With It
Pair a slice of this tropical cake with:
- A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream
- A chilled glass of Grasshopper Pie vibes for minty contrast
- These chocolate chip cookie bites as a complementary treat
- Fresh fruit and mint tea for a lighter finish
- A drizzle of warm caramel for extra decadence
Storage & Make Ahead
- Store covered at room temp for 1 day, or refrigerate up to 4 days
- The unfrosted cake layers can be frozen for up to 2 months
- Let refrigerated cake come to room temperature before serving
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs
- The Easter Cookies Everyone Talks About
- Pumpkin Delight Dessert
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites
- Grasshopper Pie
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is like a vacation in dessert form. The tropical pineapple, earthy carrots, and warm spices all come together in a perfectly moist crumb, crowned with luscious cream cheese frosting. Whether it’s a holiday table or your next brunch gathering, this cake brings sunshine and smiles every time.
🌺 Tried it? Tag @chefmaniac and share your creation! And follow us for more sweet escapes and classic comforts.
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