Carrot Pineapple Cake Recipe
A moist and flavorful Carrot Pineapple Cake featuring grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and optional shredded coconut, topped with a creamy homemade cream cheese frosting. This cake combines warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
- Author: Windy
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
Mix-ins
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- ½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk or pineapple juice
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round pans or one 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate air and ensure a smooth batter.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Fold in Carrots & Pineapple: Gently fold in the grated carrots, drained crushed pineapple, and optional shredded coconut until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Make Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until fluffy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk or pineapple juice, mixing until creamy and spreadable.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cakes. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts if desired for extra texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure pineapple is well-drained to prevent the batter from becoming too wet.
- You can substitute shredded coconut with chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese and butter alternatives.
- Store the cake covered in the refrigerator; it stays fresh for up to 4 days.
- Bring the cake to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.
Keywords: Carrot Pineapple Cake, Cream Cheese Frosting, Moist Carrot Cake, Pineapple Cake, Spiced Cake, Holiday Dessert