Description
This Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake blends tropical pineapple with sweet carrots and warm spices for an ultra-moist, flavorful dessert. Topped with rich cream cheese frosting, this easy carrot cake recipe is perfect for potlucks, parties, or a sweet island-inspired treat at home.
Ingredients
- For the cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- For the frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 cups powdered sugar (adjust to desired sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons crushed pineapple (optional, for flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round pans or a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, beat granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Stir in grated carrots, drained pineapple, and nuts (if using).
- Pour batter into prepared pan(s) and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Mix in crushed pineapple if using.
- Once cake is cool, frost top and sides as desired.
Notes
- Use freshly grated carrots for best texture and moisture.
- Add shredded coconut or raisins for a sweeter, chunkier cake.
- Swap out walnuts for pecans, or omit nuts entirely.
- Make ahead: bake cake layers a day in advance and frost the next day.
- To freeze: wrap unfrosted layers tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
