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Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

Introduction

Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is a moist, tropical twist on the classic carrot cake. Bursting with the natural sweetness of crushed pineapple and warm spices, this dessert is both nostalgic and refreshing. It’s rich, flavorful, and often topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting, making it a cherished treat for celebrations, potlucks, or a special weekend bake.

Origin and Cultural Significance

The traditional carrot cake has European roots, but the Hawaiian version blends island ingredients like pineapple and coconut to create something unique and vibrant. This fusion dessert reflects Hawaii’s diverse culinary culture, where local fruits are often combined with imported baking traditions. The addition of pineapple adds not just tropical flavor, but also moisture and natural sweetness—hallmarks of island-inspired baking. Over time, this cake has become a beloved part of family gatherings, luaus, and church potlucks in the islands and across the mainland U.S.

Ingredients and Quantity

Makes: 1 (9×13-inch) cake or two 9-inch round layers
Prep Time: 20 mins | Bake Time: 40-45 mins | Total Time: ~1 hour 10 mins

For the Cake:

All-purpose flour – 2 cups
Baking soda – 2 tsp
Ground cinnamon – 2 tsp
Salt – ½ tsp
Eggs – 3 large
Granulated sugar – 1 cup
Brown sugar – ½ cup
Vegetable oil – ¾ cup
Applesauce – ½ cup (unsweetened)
Vanilla extract – 2 tsp
Carrots – 2 cups, grated (about 4 medium carrots)
Crushed pineapple – 1 cup, drained (from an 8 oz can)
Shredded coconut – ½ cup (optional but traditional)
Chopped walnuts or pecans – ½ cup (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

Cream cheese – 8 oz, softened
Unsalted butter – ½ cup (1 stick), softened
Powdered sugar – 3 cups
Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
Pinch of salt

Optional Additions

Golden raisins – ¼ cup for added chew and sweetness
Ginger or nutmeg – ½ tsp for extra spice
Coconut flakes – toasted and sprinkled on top for texture
Pineapple juice glaze – for extra moisture before frosting
Lime zest – to give the frosting a zippy tropical note

Tips for Success

Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour—this keeps the cake tender.
Drain pineapple thoroughly to avoid an overly wet batter.
Use fresh carrots, not pre-shredded, for best texture and moisture.
Room temperature ingredients (eggs, cream cheese, butter) ensure better mixing and texture.
Cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix dry ingredients in a large bowl: flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
Whisk wet ingredients in another bowl: eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, applesauce, and vanilla.
Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in carrots, crushed pineapple, coconut, and nuts if using.
Pour batter into prepared pan(s) and smooth the top.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool cake completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Make frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Beat until fluffy.
Frost the cake once cooled. Decorate with nuts, coconut, or pineapple chunks if desired.

Description

This cake is luxuriously moist and dense, with a flavor that’s simultaneously earthy (thanks to the carrots), bright (from pineapple), and warm (cinnamon and brown sugar). The cream cheese frosting adds a creamy, tangy contrast that ties the whole experience together. It’s tropical, comforting, and indulgently satisfying.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving, based on 16 servings)

Calories: ~390 kcal
Fat: ~20g
Carbohydrates: ~50g
Sugar: ~35g
Protein: ~4g
Fiber: ~2g

(May vary with optional ingredients and frosting amount.)

Conclusion

Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is a tropical twist on a beloved classic. It’s a perfect fusion of comfort food and sunny island flavors, creating a dessert that’s as festive as it is delicious. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, picnic, or just because—it always delights.

Recommendation

Serve this cake with a cup of iced tea, coffee, or a tropical fruit salad on the side. It’s an excellent choice for Easter brunch, Mother’s Day, or any celebration where a flavorful, moist cake is called for.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While this cake is a sweet treat, you can make it more health-conscious without compromising on taste. Use whole wheat pastry flour, reduce sugar slightly, or sub in Greek yogurt for part of the oil. Applesauce already adds natural sweetness and moisture, making this version friendlier to lighter eating goals. Celebrate mindfully—one slice of joy at a time.

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