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Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake Recipe

Delight in this Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake—moist, flavorful, and topped with creamy frosting for a tropical escape in every bite!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups finely grated carrots
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions
 

  • heat & Prepare Pans
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • Mix Wet Ingredients
    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix thoroughly.
  • Add Carrots & Pineapple
    Fold in the grated carrots and well-drained crushed pineapple until evenly combined.
  • Combine Dry Ingredients
    In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
  • Mix Wet & Dry Ingredients
    Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.
  • Add Nuts
    If using, fold in chopped walnuts for extra texture.
  • Bake the Cake
    Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Cool & Frost
    Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. Frost with cream cheese frosting and decorate as desired.

Notes

  • Always drain pineapple to prevent excess moisture.
  • Finely grated carrots ensure a soft, tender crumb.
  • Cake can be frozen or refrigerated, making it perfect for make-ahead events.
  • Customize with toppings like toasted coconut, nuts, or fresh pineapple chunks.