Delicious Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake Recipe

Welcome to a taste of the tropics with this delightful recipe for Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake! This luscious dessert takes the classic carrot cake to a whole new level with the sunny addition of juicy pineapple and crunchy walnuts, all embraced by a decadent cream cheese frosting. Whether it’s a birthday bash, a family gathering, or simply a sweet craving, this cake is sure to bring a burst of color and flavor that will have everyone smiling.

I first discovered the magic of this Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake when I baked it for a friend’s birthday celebration, and it has since become a beloved treat for all our family gatherings. The combination of moist carrots, tangy pineapple, and warm spices creates a truly festive dessert that never fails to impress. And the best part? It’s a breeze to make and can be stored in the fridge for days, making it a perfect make-ahead option for any occasion.

So, whether you’re a baking enthusiast looking for a new showstopper or a parent wanting to surprise your kids with a special treat, this Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is a must-try. With each bite, you’ll be transported to the sunny shores of Hawaii, where flavors of the island mingle in perfect harmony. Don’t wait any longer—whip up this tropical delight and watch as it becomes a favorite at your table, just as it has at mine.

Quick Benefits

• The blend of freshly grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and vegetable oil creates a soft, moist texture throughout.
• Walnuts are optional and may be omitted for a nut-free cake without compromising flavor or texture.
• Cream cheese frosting, made with butter and powdered sugar, gives a luscious and tangy finish to the cake.
• Make ahead: You can bake and frost the cake a day ahead; it often tastes even better after resting overnight in the fridge.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake Recipe Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: The blend of freshly grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and vegetable oil creates a soft, moist texture throughout.
• Nutty Crunch: The optional walnuts provide a satisfying crunch, but can be omitted for a nut-free version without compromising flavor.
• Tropical Twist: The addition of crushed pineapple gives the cake a burst of tropical flavor and extra moisture.
• Creamy Finish: The cream cheese frosting, made with butter and powdered sugar, adds a luscious and tangy finish to the cake.
• Make-ahead Option: You can bake and frost the cake a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with substitutions like pecans for walnuts or apple sauce for pineapple to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, potlucks, or picnics, this cake is sure to be a hit wherever you bring it.
• Freezer-friendly: Bake in advance and freeze tightly wrapped layers for up to three months, ensuring a quick and delicious treat whenever needed.
• Kid-friendly: Children love decorating the cake with fresh pineapple shapes, making it a fun and engaging activity for little ones.
• Festive Presentation: The cake’s tropical flavors and vibrant colors make it a visually appealing centerpiece for any celebration.

Ingredients for Delicious Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake Recipe

Cake Base

• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 cups carrots, finely grated
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

Frosting and Garnish

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• Shredded carrots, for garnish
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• Pineapple chunks, for garnish

Pro Tips for Delicious Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake Recipe

Pro tip: To enhance the tropical flavors of this Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake, consider adding a splash of rum or coconut extract to the batter for an extra layer of island-inspired taste.

Pro tip: For a professional presentation, use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to create decorative swirls and designs with the cream cheese frosting on top of the cake. This will elevate the visual appeal and make your dessert a standout at any gathering.

Pro tip: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought cream cheese frosting as a convenient alternative. Just add a dash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor before frosting the cake for a quick and delicious finish.

How to Make Delicious Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Baking Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease and flour a 9 x 13 inch rectangular baking pan.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl, whisking together.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry and Wet Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients gradually, mixing until just combined. Fold in grated carrots, drained crushed pineapple, and optional chopped walnuts for even distribution.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.

Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream together softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beat until frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 7: Frost and Garnish

Evenly spread the prepared cream cheese frosting over the cooled cake and garnish with pineapple chunks and shredded carrots as desired.

Storage Tips

Once your Hawaiian carrot pineapple cake is baked and frosted, it should be stored in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Place the cake in an airtight container to prevent the frosting from softening and absorbing other odors. This cake can be stored for up to five days in the refrigerator, allowing you to enjoy it over several servings. For best results, let the cake slices come to room temperature before serving to soften the frosting and enhance the flavors.

To prepare in advance, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers tightly wrapped for up to three months. When you are ready to serve, simply thaw the cake layers at room temperature, make a fresh batch of frosting, and decorate the cake. The texture and flavors will remain vibrant and delicious, making it a convenient option for planning ahead for special occasions or gatherings. This tropical-inspired cake is a versatile and delightful treat that is sure to brighten any celebration with its moist texture and rich cream cheese frosting.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to make a nut-free version of this Hawaiian carrot pineapple cake, simply omit the walnuts or substitute them with pecans for a similar crunch without nuts. This modification will not affect the overall flavor or moist texture of the cake.

In case you don’t have crushed pineapple on hand, you can easily replace it with unsweetened applesauce or well-drained mandarin oranges. These alternatives will provide a similar level of moisture and fruity sweetness to the cake, maintaining its tropical flair.

For a dairy-free option, consider using plant-based cream cheese and vegan butter when making the frosting. This substitution allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy this delicious cake while still savoring the rich and tangy cream cheese frosting that complements the flavors of the carrot and pineapple.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try cutting the Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake into mini cupcakes for a bite-sized treat that’s perfect for parties or potlucks. Top each cupcake with a dollop of cream cheese frosting, a pineapple chunk, and a sprinkle of shredded carrots for a festive and colorful presentation that will impress your guests.

Another fun idea is to turn this cake into a trifle dessert by layering cubes of the cake with whipped cream or coconut cream, pineapple chunks, and a drizzle of caramel or rum sauce. Serve in individual glasses or a large trifle bowl for a stunning and decadent dessert that showcases the tropical flavors of the cake in a new and delightful way.

FAQs for Delicious Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake Recipe

Can I omit the walnuts from the cake?

Absolutely. Walnuts are optional and may be omitted for a nut-free cake without compromising flavor or texture.

Can I use canned crushed pineapple for the recipe?

Yes, well-drained canned crushed pineapple works perfectly. Be sure to remove excess juice for best results.

What does the cream cheese frosting consist of?

Cream cheese frosting, made with butter and powdered sugar, gives a luscious and tangy finish to the cake.

Can I make the cake a day ahead?

Yes, you can bake and frost the cake a day ahead. It often tastes even better after resting overnight in the fridge.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed making and indulging in this delightful Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake as much as I do. The tropical flavors and moist texture make it a standout dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to family gatherings. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your decorations and adaptations to suit your taste preferences – this cake is truly versatile.

Whether you bake this Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake for a special celebration or just a cozy family treat, it’s sure to bring smiles and happy memories. The combination of sweet carrots, juicy pineapple, and creamy frosting creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, go ahead, bake this cake, and let its sunny island vibes brighten up your day!