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Best Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake That’s Moist, Easy Recipe

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4.3 from 34 reviews

This best Hawaiian carrot pineapple cake is a moist tropical dessert packed with grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and crowned with velvety cream cheese frosting. Easy, nostalgic, and crowd-pleasing, this cake combines warm spices and tropical flavors for a deliciously moist treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 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 Frosting:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Garnish:

  • Shredded carrots (optional)
  • Pineapple chunks (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat with Intention: Turn your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Mix the Dry with Patience: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
  3. Beat the Wet with Warmth: In a separate bowl, beat together the sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth, shiny, and golden.
  4. Marry It All: Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined to avoid overmixing and keep the cake tender.
  5. Add the Magic: Fold in the grated carrots, drained crushed pineapple, and optionally the chopped walnuts, giving the batter a bright and joyful appearance before baking.
  6. Bake Until Perfectly Imperfect: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and bake for 35–40 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
  7. Make the Frosting with Heart: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is thick but smooth.
  8. Frost and Finish: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Garnish with shredded carrots and pineapple chunks for an extra touch of tropical flavor and color. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent the cake from sticking.
  • The cake stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • This cake freezes beautifully when wrapped tightly in individual portions, making it great for advance preparation.