This Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake combines the natural sweetness of carrots with juicy crushed pineapple and a hint of coconut — creating a super moist, flavorful, and lightly spiced cake that melts in your mouth. It’s finished with luscious cream cheese frosting that balances the tropical flavors perfectly.
Whether you’re baking for Easter, birthdays, or just to treat yourself, this cake will quickly become a favorite!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (220 g) brown sugar
- 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups (about 3 large) grated carrots
- 1 cup (200 g) crushed pineapple (drained)
- ½ cup (45 g) shredded coconut (optional)
- ½ cup (60 g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp heavy cream or milk (for smoother texture)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan (or two 8-inch round pans if you prefer a layer cake).
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat eggs, sugar, brown sugar, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
Add the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and coconut. Stir until combined.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and mix until just blended.
Fold in nuts if using.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool completely before frosting.
Make the Frosting
Beat together cream cheese and butter until creamy.
Add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until smooth.
Add milk or cream a little at a time until fluffy and spreadable.
Spread over cooled cake evenly.
Decoration Ideas
- Sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes.
- Add crushed pineapple pieces on top.
- Garnish with walnut halves or edible flowers for a tropical look.
Tips
- Don’t overmix the batter — it keeps the cake soft and tender.
- For extra pineapple flavor, add a tablespoon of pineapple juice to the frosting.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days (best served chilled).