Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is a delightful fusion of tropical flavors and classic carrot cake. This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of carrots with the tangy burst of pineapple, complemented by warm spices and the option of adding crunchy walnuts. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion, bringing a taste of the islands to your table.
Ingredients
– **Dry Ingredients:**
– 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– **Wet Ingredients:**
– 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable oil
– 4 large eggs
– **Additional Ingredients:**
– 2 cups (200 g) grated carrots
– 1 cup (225 g) crushed pineapple, drained
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (60 g) chopped walnuts (optional)
– **Cream Cheese Frosting:**
– Store-bought or homemade (see below for a homemade option)
### Homemade Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional)
– 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
### Preheat the Oven:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pans.
### Mix the Dry Ingredients:
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
### Add the Wet Ingredients:
3. Add the vegetable oil and eggs to the dry ingredients, and mix until well combined.
### Incorporate the Extras:
4. Stir in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, vanilla extract, and chopped walnuts (if using).
### Divide the Batter:
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
### Bake:
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
### Cool the Cakes:
7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
### Frost the Cakes:
8. Once the cakes are cool, frost them with cream cheese frosting.
### Homemade Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional):
1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
3. Beat in the vanilla extract.
## Serving Suggestions
– Garnish with additional chopped walnuts or shredded coconut for an extra tropical touch.
– Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
– Pair with a cup of coffee or a tropical fruit punch.
## Cooking Tips
– Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the cake.
– For a lighter cake, you can substitute half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce.
– Toast the walnuts before adding them to the batter for a richer flavor.
## Storing Recommendations
– Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
– The cake can be frozen (without frosting) for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
– Calories: 450 kcal
– Carbohydrates: 49 g
– Protein: 5 g
– Fat: 26 g
– Saturated Fat: 6 g
– Cholesterol: 62 mg
– Sodium: 275 mg
– Potassium: 180 mg
– Fiber: 2 g
– Sugar: 30 g
– Vitamin A: 6800 IU
– Vitamin C: 3 mg
– Calcium: 40 mg
– Iron: 1.5 mg
FAQs
### Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Chop it finely and ensure it is well-drained before adding it to the batter.
### Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum or add it separately.
### How can I make the frosting less sweet?
Reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting recipe, and taste as you go until you reach your desired sweetness.
### Can I make this cake vegan?
You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a dairy-free cream cheese frosting.
Total
– **Calories:** 5400 kcal (450 kcal per serving)
– **Prep Time:** 20 minutes
– **Cooking Time:** 35 minutes
– **Total Time:** 55 minutes
– **Number of Servings:** 12 servings
Enjoy your Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake, and bring a taste of the islands to your table!