Pineapple Carrot Cream Cake – Moist Carrot Cake Recipe with Pineapple
This Pineapple Carrot Cream Cake is a tropical twist on a classic carrot cake! Packed with shredded carrots, crushed pineapple, and warm spices, then topped with a silky cream cheese frosting—it's moist, flavorful, and perfect for Easter, brunch, or any festive gathering.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Grater or food processor
- 9x13-inch pan or two 9-inch round pans
- Electric mixer
- Spatula and offset knife
- Cooling rack (optional)
Ingredients
Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 1½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup vegetable oil (or coconut oil)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups freshly grated carrots
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts, shredded coconut, or raisins
Frosting:
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: 1–2 tbsp pineapple juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line your pans.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat eggs, oil, sugars, and vanilla until smooth.
- Fold in grated carrots and crushed pineapple.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures until just blended. Add optional mix-ins.
- Pour into pans and bake for 30–35 minutes. Toothpick should come out clean.
- Cool completely before frosting.
- For frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Chill slightly before spreading.
- Frost cooled cake and garnish with nuts, coconut, or cinnamon dust.
Notes
- Fresh pineapple can be used—just chop finely and drain well.
- Cupcake version: Bake for 18–22 minutes.
- Make ahead: Freeze unfrosted layers for up to 2 months.
- Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Frosting tip: Use softened—not melted—cream cheese for best texture.
- Flavor boost: Add lemon zest or ginger for brightness.