Description

Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is a moist, spiced carrot cake infused with juicy pineapple and shredded coconut, topped with creamy cream cheese frosting and toasted coconut. This tropical twist on a classic dessert is perfect for celebrations or casual treats, delivering a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and warm flavors.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
4 large eggs
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups grated carrots
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Frosting:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
3-4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toasted coconut for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until well combined. Add oil and vanilla extract and mix well.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Fold in grated carrots, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and nuts if using.
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Cool cakes in pans 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until creamy.
Spread frosting on one cake layer, top with second layer, and frost the sides and top.
Garnish with toasted coconut

Notes

Drain canned pineapple well to avoid excess moisture.Use a food processor or box grater to grate carrots finely.Toast shredded coconut at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.Cake can be made ahead and frosted the next day.Adjust sugar amount for preferred sweetness.Substitute or omit nuts as desired.