Introduction
Imagine biting into a slice of cake that perfectly balances warm spices, sweet carrots, juicy pineapple, and a creamy frosting. Sounds heavenly, right? That’s exactly what you get with this Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake—a tropical twist on the classic carrot cake that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, this cake is sure to impress.
1. Ingredients
To make this delicious Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake, you’ll need:
- 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)
- Cream cheese frosting
2. Step-by-Step Directions
3. Preheat the Oven
Before anything else, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
4. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. These ingredients create the cake’s structure and warm, comforting flavors.
5. Mix the Batter
Now, add the vegetable oil and eggs to the dry mixture. Stir until smooth and well combined. Then, fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, vanilla extract, and walnuts (if using). This combination makes the cake incredibly moist and flavorful.
6. Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the Cake
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the frosting from melting.
8. Frost and Serve
Once the cake is completely cooled, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over one cake layer. Stack the second layer on top and frost the entire cake. Slice and enjoy!
9. Tips for the Perfect Cake
- Use fresh carrots for the best flavor and texture.
- Drain the pineapple well to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter—this can make the cake dense.
10. Variations and Substitutions
- Swap walnuts for pecans or skip nuts entirely.
- Use whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
- Add coconut flakes for extra tropical vibes.
11. How to Store the Cake
- Room Temperature: Store unfrosted cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep frosted cake in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
12. Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Garnish with toasted coconut or extra nuts for a fancy touch.
13. FAQs
1. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
2. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, but make sure to finely chop and drain it well.
3. Why is my cake too dense?
Overmixing the batter or adding too much liquid can make the cake dense.
4. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake it a day in advance and frost it just before serving.
5. What other frosting can I use?
If you’re not a fan of cream cheese frosting, try a buttercream or whipped cream frosting.
This Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its moist texture, tropical flavors, and creamy frosting make it perfect for any occasion. Try it today and bring a little island-inspired sweetness to your table!
