Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk or pineapple juice (for consistency)
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and shredded coconut if using.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
9. Mix in vanilla extract and enough milk or pineapple juice to achieve a spreadable consistency.
10. Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread frosting on one cake layer, top with the second layer, and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Tips:
Use freshly grated carrots for the best texture and moisture in the cake.
Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the batter.