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A moist Hawaiian carrot pineapple cake topped with cream cheese frosting, garnished with crushed pineapple and shredded coconut on a rustic cake stand.

Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake – Tropical Dessert Recipe

Moist, sweet, and bursting with tropical flavor—this Hawaiian carrot pineapple cake is a dessert that impresses every time. With fresh carrots, juicy pineapple, and a hint of spice, all topped with rich cream cheese frosting, it’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or family gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Celebration Cake, Dessert
Cuisine American, Hawaiian-inspired
Servings 12 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Grater for carrots
  • Baking pan (sheet, bundt, or round)
  • Cooling rack

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups sugar
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp nutmeg
  • 3 large eggs
  • ¾ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 cups grated carrots
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple (lightly drained)
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
  • ½ cup raisins (optional)
  • Cream cheese frosting or whipped topping
  • Pro Tip: Drain pineapple lightly but keep some juice for extra moisture.

Instructions
 

  • Prep Ingredients: Grate carrots and drain pineapple.
  • Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  • Combine Wet Ingredients: Whisk eggs, oil, and pineapple with juice.
  • Fold Together: Gently fold in carrots, coconut, and optional nuts or raisins.
  • Bake & Cool: Pour into greased pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes until golden and set. Cool completely.
  • Frost & Serve: Spread cream cheese frosting or whipped topping. Garnish with coconut or nuts.
  • Important Tip: Don’t overmix—gentle folding keeps the cake tender.

Notes

  • Works as sheet cake, bundt, or cupcakes.
  • Cream cheese frosting is traditional, but whipped topping is lighter.
  • Add-ins like nuts or raisins enhance texture.
  • Store covered at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
  • Freezer-friendly: wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Keyword Carrot Pineapple Cake, cream cheese frosting, Hawaiian Dessert, Tropical Carrot Cake