Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

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This Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake brings a bright, tropical twist to a classic dessert. Moist and tender, it combines the earthiness of freshly grated carrots with the juicy sweetness of crushed pineapple. Each bite is full of warm spices, a soft crumb, and the slight tang of cream cheese frosting, making it irresistible for any occasion.

Whether you’re serving this at a summer barbecue or as a special treat for a family gathering, this cake never fails to impress. The pineapple not only infuses the cake with sunny flavor but also keeps it wonderfully moist for days. It’s the perfect dessert to transport your taste buds to an island getaway.

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

You’ll love this cake because it’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. The combination of tropical fruit and spiced carrot cake creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and unexpected. The cream cheese frosting balances everything with its creamy richness, and the cake stays soft even when made ahead. Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or just because.

Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?

While fresh pineapple can work, canned crushed pineapple is preferred here for its consistency and moisture content. Fresh pineapple may release too much juice or have uneven texture, which can affect the structure of the cake. Stick with canned for the best results and easiest preparation.

Ingredients for the Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

Carrots: Freshly grated carrots add natural sweetness, color, and moisture to the cake, making the crumb tender and flavorful.

Crushed Pineapple: This is the tropical star of the recipe, adding sweetness and a juicy texture while keeping the cake moist.

All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the cake, providing structure to hold all the delicious ingredients together.

Granulated Sugar: Brings the sweetness that complements the fruit and spices beautifully.

Vegetable Oil: Ensures the cake stays moist and soft without the heaviness of butter.

Eggs: Help bind the batter and create a rich texture.

Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Essential leaveners that give the cake a perfect rise and lightness.

Cinnamon & Nutmeg: Warm spices that add depth and balance to the sweetness.

Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the other flavors.

Cream Cheese Frosting: Optional but highly recommended for its creamy tang that pairs beautifully with the tropical notes.

How To Make the Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat eggs, then stir in vegetable oil and crushed pineapple (including juice). Fold in the grated carrots.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for about 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Frost and Serve

Once the cakes are completely cool, frost with cream cheese frosting. Stack the layers if desired and spread frosting evenly. Slice and enjoy!

Serving and Storing the Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

This Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake serves about 12 people, making it ideal for gatherings or family dinners. Present it on a pretty cake stand to show off its layers and creamy frosting. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped tightly for up to three months, then thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy again.

What to Serve With Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake?

Fresh Berries

Bright, tart berries like raspberries or blackberries cut through the richness of the cake and add a refreshing touch.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream makes each bite even more decadent.

Coconut Whipped Cream

For a tropical flair, serve with lightly sweetened coconut whipped cream.

Mango Sorbet

Cool and fruity, mango sorbet is a light and vibrant accompaniment.

Spiced Tea

A warm cup of chai or cinnamon-spiced tea pairs wonderfully with the cake’s flavors.

Coffee

A strong coffee enhances the sweetness and spices in the cake.

Roasted Nuts

Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on the plate for added crunch and nutty depth.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake, you’ll probably enjoy these other delightful creations:

• Delicious Lemon Cake to Die For for a bright and zesty option.
• Ooey Gooey Bars if you crave something rich and fudgy.
• Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes for a cute and creamy bite.
• Best Kentucky Butter Cake with its buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler to bring some Southern charm to your table.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try fresh pineapple or stick with canned? Did you sprinkle nuts on top?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other bake smarter.

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