Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is a tropical twist on the classic carrot cake, combining the sweetness of pineapple with the spiced richness of carrots. This moist and flavorful cake is topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and often garnished with toasted coconut for added texture. It’s perfect for celebrations, special occasions, or a sweet treat anytime you want a taste of the tropics.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
2 cups finely grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots)
1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
1/2 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened or sweetened, as desired)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (more if needed for consistency)
For Garnish (Optional):
Toasted coconut flakes
Extra chopped nuts
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
Prepare Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Combine Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Stir in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts (if using).
Bake the Cake:
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cakes should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.
Cool the Cake:
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, remove from the pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the vanilla extract and enough milk or heavy cream to reach the desired consistency. The frosting should be spreadable but not too runny.
Frost the Cake:
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate or cake board. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
Garnish and Serve:
If desired, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes and extra chopped nuts over the top of the frosted cake.
Slice and enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake!
History
Carrot cake has been a popular dessert since the Middle Ages when sweeteners like honey were used to flavor cakes made with grated carrots. The addition of pineapple and coconut brings a tropical flair that became popular in the 20th century, particularly in the U.S. Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is a modern twist that blends the traditional carrot cake with the fruity sweetness of pineapple and the crunch of coconut.
Benefits
Rich Flavor Profile: Combines the natural sweetness of pineapple and carrots with spices for a complex flavor.
Moist Texture: The addition of pineapple helps keep the cake moist and tender.
Versatile: Can be served at various occasions, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice, assuming 12 slices)
Calories: Approximately 400
Protein: 4g
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 32g
Reasons to Make It
Tropical Twist: Adds a unique and delicious twist to traditional carrot cake.
Impressive Presentation: The combination of flavors and frosting makes it a visually appealing and tasty dessert.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
New Tips and Methods
Add Spice: Experiment with adding a pinch of cardamom or cloves for extra depth of flavor.
Make Cupcakes: This batter can be used to make cupcakes; just adjust the baking time to 18-20 minutes.
Chill the Cake: For easier frosting, chill the cake layers in the refrigerator before frosting.
Layering: For a more impressive cake, add a layer of crushed pineapple and coconut between the cake layers.
Enjoy your Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake, a tropical delight that’s sure to impress and satisfy!