A bright and festive cake that mixes carrot, pineapple, and coconut.

introduction

This Christmas Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake brings warm spice, sweet pineapple, and moist carrot in one cake. It uses simple ingredients and a soft cream cheese frosting. For more small holiday treats to serve with this cake, see Little Debbie Christmas tree cake truffles for an easy sweet side.

why make this recipe

Make this cake for a holiday table when you want something fresh and different. It is moist, not too sweet, and the pineapple keeps it soft. It also blends holiday spices and tropical flavors in one dish. If you like a variety of holiday sweets, try ideas from 60 irresistible Christmas candy recipes to round out your spread.

how to make Christmas Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

This recipe is easy and moves step by step. You mix dry ingredients, beat sugar with oil and eggs, fold in the carrot and pineapple, then bake. For another easy holiday bake you can try later, look at the caramel apple cheesecake bars. Follow the Directions section below for exact times and temperatures.

Ingredients :

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp nutmeg
½ tsp salt
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
2 cups grated carrots
1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
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

Directions :

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch pans or one 9×13-inch dish.
In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk sugars and oil until smooth. Add eggs one at a time.
Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined.
Add grated carrots, drained pineapple, and coconut.
Pour batter evenly into pans and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cool in pans for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool fully.
Beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Add sugar, vanilla, and milk or pineapple juice.
Spread frosting evenly and garnish with toasted coconut or nuts.

how to serve Christmas Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

Serve this cake at room temperature. Cut into slices and put a spoon of frosting on top. You can also garnish each slice with toasted coconut or chopped nuts. For a crunchy side snack, you might serve small saltine cracker candies as a contrast; see ideas like Christmas Crack.

how to store Christmas Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

Cover the cake and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you keep slices at room temperature, eat them within one day. To freeze, wrap slices in plastic and place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

tips to make Christmas Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake

Drain the pineapple well so the batter does not get too wet.
Grate carrots fine for even texture.
Do not overmix once you add flour to keep the cake tender.
Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese so the frosting is smooth.
If you want a firmer frosting, add more powdered sugar. For a lighter spread, add milk.
For extra holiday candy ideas for topping or gifts, check this Christmas cracker candy page.

Serving Ideas

Serve with a cup of hot coffee or spiced tea.
Pair slices with whipped cream and extra pineapple.
Top with toasted coconut and chopped pecans for texture.
Serve small cookie or truffle bites alongside for a party plate.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake is simple to make and full of flavor. It is a good choice for a holiday dessert when you want something moist and a little tropical. The cream cheese frosting gives a bright, tangy finish that balances the sweetness.

FAQs

Q: Can I skip the coconut?
A: Yes. The coconut is optional and you can leave it out without changing bake time.

Q: Do I need to peel the carrots?
A: You can leave the peel on if you wash the carrots well, but many people prefer peeled carrots for texture.

Q: Can I use a boxed cake mix instead?
A: Yes. You can add grated carrots and pineapple to a yellow or spice cake mix and bake as directed on the box.

Q: How do I make the cake less sweet?
A: Reduce the granulated sugar slightly and use less powdered sugar in the frosting.

Q: Can I make cupcakes with this batter?
A: Yes. Bake in a muffin tin for about 18–22 minutes and check with a toothpick.

Conclusion

If you want another version of carrot pineapple cake to compare, try this Carrot Pineapple Cake Recipe for a classic take. For a decorated version with a similar frosting, see the pineapple carrot cake with cream cheese frosting – Blue Bowl.