Christmas Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

Bring a tropical twist to your festive celebrations with the Christmas Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake. This recipe reimagines the traditional carrot cake by infusing it with the bright, juicy sweetness of crushed pineapple and shredded coconut. It's an incredibly moist, flavor-packed dessert that offers a refreshing departure from heavier holiday treats, making it a perfect centerpiece for your island-inspired Christmas table.

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The warmth of ground cinnamon and nutmeg paired with the tang of the pineapple creates a sophisticated flavor profile that appeals to everyone. Whether you're hosting a large gathering or a quiet family dinner, this cake is easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, bringing a touch of the tropics to any winter setting.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups grated carrots (about 3–4 medium carrots)
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• ½ cup shredded coconut (optional; plus extra for garnish)
• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3–4 cups (360–480 g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1–2 tbsp milk or pineapple juice

Rinse produce, clean cookware, and fill pots smoothly with flexible spray options for everyday cooking.

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Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pans or one 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition until smooth.

Step 4

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5

Fold in the grated carrots, drained crushed pineapple, and shredded coconut (if using) until evenly distributed.

Step 6

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7

Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10–15 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8

Meanwhile, prepare the frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then vanilla extract and milk or pineapple juice, beating until smooth and spreadable.

Step 9

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the cake. Garnish with toasted coconut or chopped nuts if desired.

Step 10

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing for best results.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Ensure the crushed pineapple is well-drained to avoid adding excess moisture to the batter, which can affect the bake time. For the best results, use freshly grated carrots as they provide more moisture and better flavor than pre-shredded varieties.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For an extra layer of flavor and crunch, you can add half a cup of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to the batter. You can also vary the frosting by using more pineapple juice instead of milk for a zesty, citrus-forward finish.

Serviervorschläge

This cake can be served chilled or at room temperature. For a truly festive look, garnish with a generous sprinkle of toasted coconut and a few thin slices of fresh pineapple or whole nuts just before serving.

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Enjoy this delightful fusion of carrot cake and tropical flavors. It's a wonderful way to bring a taste of the islands to your holiday table and create new traditions with friends and family. Happy baking!

Stir sauces, sauté vegetables, and serve meals gently while adding a charming touch to everyday cooking.

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Recipe FAQ Section

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, the flavors improve when made a day ahead. Store frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

→ Do I need to drain the pineapple?

Yes, drain the crushed pineapple well before adding to the batter. Excess liquid can make the cake too dense and affect baking time. Reserve the juice for adding to the frosting if desired.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature before frosting. Already frosted cake can also be frozen, though the texture may be slightly affected.

→ What makes this Hawaiian-style?

The crushed pineapple and shredded coconut give this carrot cake its tropical Hawaiian character. These additions create a moist, fruity texture that contrasts beautifully with the warming spices of cinnamon and nutmeg.

→ Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce the granulated sugar by up to ¼ cup without significantly affecting texture. The pineapple provides natural sweetness. However, the powdered sugar in frosting is essential for proper consistency and stability.

→ Why is my cake dense?

Overmixing the batter can develop too much gluten, creating a dense texture. Mix until ingredients are just combined. Also ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh, and measure flour accurately by spooning into cups rather than scooping directly.