Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is a moist, spiced cake bursting with tropical flavors. The combination of sweet carrots, crushed pineapple, and warm spices creates a rich and flavorful dessert. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion!
Reasons to Make This Cake:
- Super Moist & Flavorful – Pineapple adds natural sweetness and moisture.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick preparation.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for birthdays, holidays, or potlucks.
Essential Tools & Equipment
- Mixing Bowls – For combining dry and wet ingredients.
- Whisk & Spatula – Helps mix the batter smoothly.
- Hand or Stand Mixer – Ideal for making smooth frosting.
- 9×13-inch Baking Pan – Ensures even baking.
- Cooling Rack – Helps the cake cool before frosting.
Preparation Tips
- Don’t Overmix – Stir until just combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Use Fresh Carrots – Pre-shredded carrots may be too dry.
- Drain Pineapple Lightly – Keep some juice for extra moisture.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
- In another large bowl, beat together sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in grated carrots, crushed pineapple (with juice), and nuts (if using).
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
Step 6: Make the Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing.
- Stir in vanilla extract and mix until fluffy.
Step 7: Frost & Serve
- Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is best enjoyed fresh, with its moist texture and rich cream cheese frosting. Here are some ways to elevate your serving experience:
- Classic Style: Serve chilled or at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Tropical Twist: Top with shredded coconut or toasted macadamia nuts for extra island vibes.
- Extra Indulgence: Drizzle with caramel sauce or honey for added sweetness.
- Light & Fresh: Serve with a side of fresh pineapple chunks or a fruit salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overmixing the Batter
- Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough cake. Stir until just combined for a tender texture.
2. Not Properly Draining the Pineapple
- While some juice is needed for moisture, excess liquid can make the cake too wet. Lightly drain before adding.
3. Using Pre-Shredded Carrots
- Pre-packaged shredded carrots are often too dry and thick. Use freshly grated carrots for the best results.
4. Overbaking the Cake
- Baking too long can make the cake dry. Start checking for doneness at 30 minutes by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
5. Frosting a Warm Cake
- Applying frosting while the cake is warm will cause it to melt. Always let the cake cool completely before frosting.
Perfect Side Dishes & Pairings
Pair your Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake with these complementary sides and drinks for a complete dessert experience:
Refreshing Sides:
- Tropical Fruit Salad – A mix of mango, pineapple, and berries balances the richness of the cake.
- Coconut Whipped Cream – Light and airy, adding a tropical touch.
- Lemon Sorbet – A citrusy, refreshing contrast to the spiced cake.
Drinks to Pair With:
- Iced Pineapple Green Tea – Enhances the tropical flavors of the cake.
- Vanilla Bean Latte – Complements the warmth of the spices.
- Spiced Chai Tea – Matches the cinnamon and nutmeg in the cake.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
How to Store
To keep your Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake fresh and moist, follow these storage tips:
- Room Temperature: If unfrosted, store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Once frosted, store in an airtight container for up to 5 days to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices or the entire cake in plastic wrap, then in foil. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat
While this cake is best enjoyed at room temperature or chilled, you can gently warm it up if preferred:
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for 10-15 seconds to soften the cake slightly.
- Oven: If the cake is unfrosted, warm at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes to bring back some freshness.
FAQs
1. Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes! Bake the cake a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Frost just before serving for the freshest texture.
2. Can I Use a Different Pan Size?
Absolutely! Here are some adjustments:
- Two 8-inch round cake pans – Bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Cupcakes – Bake for 18-22 minutes.
- Bundt pan – Bake for 40-45 minutes.
3. Can I Make This Cake Without Nuts?
Yes! Simply leave out the nuts for a smooth, nut-free version.
4. Can I Reduce the Sugar?
Yes! You can reduce the sugar to 1 cup without affecting the texture too much. For a natural alternative, try coconut sugar or honey.
5. Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Yes, but make sure to finely crush it and drain some of the excess juice to avoid a soggy cake.
6. How Do I Prevent My Frosting from Being Too Runny?
If the frosting is too soft, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before spreading it on the cake. Adding an extra ¼ cup of powdered sugar can also help thicken it.
Conclusion
This Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is a delightful tropical twist on a classic favorite. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, following these tips will ensure the perfect texture, flavor, and presentation every time. Store it properly, serve it with delicious pairings, and enjoy a slice of island-inspired sweetness!