Why Make This Recipe
Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is a delightful dessert that mixes the sweetness of carrots with the tropical taste of pineapple. It’s moist, flavorful, and topped with a creamy frosting, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a holiday, or just want something sweet, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends.
How to Make Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Garnish (optional):
- Pineapple chunks
- Shredded carrots
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat together the sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and walnuts if you are using them.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until smooth.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled cake and garnish with pineapple chunks and shredded carrots if desired.
How to Serve Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake
Serve this delicious cake at room temperature or chilled. Cut into squares and place on dessert plates. It can be enjoyed on its own or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
How to Store Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake
After baking, store any leftover cake in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cake. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and it will last for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to serve it again.
Tips to Make Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake
- Make sure to drain the pineapple well to avoid too much moisture in the cake.
- For extra sweetness and flavor, consider adding crushed walnuts or coconut flakes.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Variation
You can adjust the recipe by adding spices like nutmeg or ginger for an extra flavor kick. Another variation is to add raisins or shredded coconut to the batter for added texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Just make sure to finely chop and drain it before adding to the batter.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and frost it before serving.
Q: Is there a dairy-free option for the frosting?
A: Yes! You can use dairy-free cream cheese and margarine for a dairy-free frosting option.

Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat together the sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and walnuts if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until smooth.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled cake and garnish with pineapple chunks and shredded carrots if desired.