Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake (Print Version)

Carrot and pineapple lend tropical sweetness to a moist, spiced cake finished with a silky cream cheese topping.

# Ingredients:

→ Cake Base

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
03 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 - 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
06 - 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
07 - 3 large eggs
08 - 1 cup vegetable oil
09 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
10 - 2 cups finely grated carrots
11 - 1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained
12 - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

→ Frosting and Garnish

13 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
14 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
15 - 2 cups powdered sugar
16 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
17 - Pineapple chunks, for garnish
18 - Shredded carrots, for garnish

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9 x 13-inch baking pan, ensuring all sides are fully coated to prevent sticking.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and fine salt until well blended.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, beat granulated sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
04 - Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, stirring by hand or using a mixer on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
05 - Gently fold in grated carrots, drained crushed pineapple, and, if desired, chopped walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
06 - Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool in the pan completely.
07 - In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
08 - Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Garnish with pineapple chunks and shredded carrots as desired before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure crushed pineapple is thoroughly drained to prevent excess moisture in the cake.