Introduction
Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is a delightful twist on the classic carrot cake, bringing together warm spices, sweet carrots, and juicy pineapple for an exceptionally moist and flavorful result. This cake has a comforting homemade feel while offering a subtle tropical note that makes it stand out from traditional versions. The pineapple not only enhances the flavor but also ensures the cake stays soft and tender for days. I find this recipe especially reliable because it comes together easily and delivers consistent results every time. Whether you are baking for a family gathering, a special occasion, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea, this cake feels generous, satisfying, and timeless.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is wonderfully moist, gently spiced, and naturally sweetened with carrots and pineapple. It is a dependable, crowd-pleasing cake that stays soft for days and delivers a subtle tropical flavor without being overpowering. I appreciate how forgiving this recipe is, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced bakers. It works equally well for casual gatherings, celebrations, or as a make-ahead dessert that actually improves with time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ingredients Breakdown
Carrots
Freshly grated carrots provide moisture, structure, and natural sweetness. Finely grated carrots integrate smoothly into the batter, ensuring a tender crumb without noticeable chunks.
Crushed Pineapple
Crushed pineapple is essential to the cake’s signature flavor and moisture. The juice contributes acidity and sweetness, helping keep the cake soft for several days.
All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour gives the cake enough structure to support the moist ingredients while maintaining a soft, sliceable crumb.
Granulated Sugar
Granulated sugar sweetens the batter evenly and contributes to a light texture.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar adds depth, warmth, and a subtle caramel note that complements the carrots and spices.
Vegetable Oil
Oil keeps the cake exceptionally moist and allows the tropical flavors to stand out without heaviness.
Eggs
Eggs bind the ingredients, add richness, and provide stability to the cake structure.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda
This combination ensures proper lift while supporting the dense, moisture-rich batter.
Ground Cinnamon
Cinnamon brings warmth and balances the sweetness of the pineapple and carrots.
Salt
Salt enhances flavor and prevents the cake from tasting overly sweet.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla adds aroma and rounds out the overall flavor profile.
Directions
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preheat the oven to 175°C and prepare a rectangular baking pan or two round pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
In another bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until smooth and well blended. Stir in the crushed pineapple along with its juice. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Add the grated carrots and gently fold until evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and level the surface. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before serving or frosting.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, baking time is 45 minutes, and cooling time is at least 1 hour.
Storage/reheating
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving. Reheating is not necessary.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is highly adaptable. Chopped walnuts or pecans can be added for crunch. Shredded coconut enhances the tropical flavor and adds texture. For a lighter version, replace half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce.
The batter can also be used to make cupcakes by adjusting the baking time to 20–25 minutes. For finishing, the cake pairs beautifully with cream cheese frosting, a light glaze, or even served plain with powdered sugar.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate values per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 52 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 34 g |
| Sodium | 290 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Carrot Preparation
Always grate carrots finely for a smooth, cohesive texture.
Pineapple Moisture
Do not fully drain the pineapple, as the juice is essential for moisture.
Flavor Maturity
This cake tastes even better the day after baking.
Even Baking
Use a light-colored pan to prevent over-browning.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, it is ideal for making a day in advance.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, freeze unfrosted for up to two months.
Can I use fresh pineapple?
Yes, crush it finely and include the juice.
Is this cake overly sweet?
No, it is well balanced by fruit and spices.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
What frosting pairs best?
Cream cheese frosting is the most popular choice.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Slight reductions are possible, but texture may change.
Does it need refrigeration?
Only if frosted with cream cheese frosting.
Can I bake it in a loaf pan?
Yes, but extend baking time and test for doneness.
Is this suitable for special occasions?
Yes, it is a reliable and appealing celebration cake.
Conclusion
Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert that combines classic comfort with a tropical twist. Its reliable texture, adaptable nature, and rich flavor make it a recipe worth keeping and revisiting for years to come.
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