Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake Recipe

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Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake Recipe

Introduction

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

  1. 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.
  2. Prepare Dry Ingredients:
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.
  3. 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.
  4. 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).
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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!

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