introduction

This cake feels like a warm holiday hug. It mixes carrot, pineapple, and nuts. You bake it in two round pans and add cream cheese frost. For other sweet ideas, try this almond ricotta cake which also uses simple steps.

why make this recipe

Make this cake for a small party or family meal. It tastes bright and fresh from pineapple. It feels cozy with cinnamon and nuts. If you like easy festive treats, you may also enjoy these apple crisp mini cheesecakes for more holiday choices.

how to make Christmas Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

This cake comes together fast. You mix wet and dry parts and fold in carrots, pineapple, and nuts. The oven does the rest. If you want a layered holiday dessert idea, see this black forest trifle for more layer ideas.

Ingredients :

2 cups grated carrots
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Cream cheese frosting for topping

Here is a similar dessert to inspire you: blackberry cheesecake.

Directions :

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until well combined.
Add the grated carrots and crushed pineapple to the mixture. Mix until incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until combined.
Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Once cool, frost the cakes with cream cheese frosting.
Serve and enjoy your festive dessert!

For a creamy fruit cake idea, you can look at this blackberry cheesecake for more fruit and cream combos.

how to serve Christmas Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

Cut the cake into slices and place on small plates. Add a small dollop of extra frosting if you like. Serve with coffee or tea. The cake fits well on a holiday table.

how to store Christmas Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

Cover the cake with plastic wrap or put in an airtight box. Keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can freeze the baked, unfrosted layers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before frosting and serving.

tips to make Christmas Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

Use fresh grated carrots for best texture. Drain the pineapple well to avoid a wet cake. Do not overmix the batter. If you like a nut-free cake, skip the nuts or add toasted coconut. Let the cake cool fully before you frost to keep the frosting smooth.

variation (if any)

Add shredded coconut to the batter for more island flavor.
Swap walnuts for pecans for a different nut taste.
Stir in a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger for extra spice.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake in one pan?
A: Yes. Use a larger pan and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Watch the time; it may take longer.

Q: Can I skip the nuts?
A: Yes. The cake still tastes great without nuts. You can add coconut or raisins instead.

Q: Can I use canned carrots or pre-shredded carrots?
A: You can use pre-shredded carrots. Fresh grated carrots give the best texture.

Q: How long does cream cheese frosting keep?
A: Keep frosted cake in the fridge. Use within 5 days for best taste.

Q: Can I make this gluten free?
A: Yes. Replace the flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour mix and test the texture. The bake time may change slightly.

Conclusion

For a classic carrot and pineapple cake guide you can compare with, see this Carrot Pineapple Cake Recipe.

Christmas Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake