Moist Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake with Thick Cream Cheese Drip Glaze Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that bursts with tropical vibes and melts in your mouth, look no further than this Moist Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake with Thick Cream Cheese Drip Glaze Recipe. Imagine the perfect marriage of freshly grated carrots, juicy crushed pineapple, and delicate shredded coconut all wrapped up in a moist, tender cake that stands tall with every chunky slice. The grand finale? A luscious, glossy cream cheese glaze infused with pineapple juice that drips beautifully down the edges, adding tangy sweetness to every bite. It’s a vibrant, flavorful treat that feels like a beachside celebration on your plate, guaranteed to charm anyone lucky enough to taste it.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the first step to nailing this vibrant cake. Each component is simple yet essential — from the all-purpose flour providing structure to the tropical notes given by pineapple and coconut. Plus, the mix of spices and nuts adds that extra wow factor in taste and texture.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cake, ensuring a sturdy but soft crumb.
• 2 cups grated carrots (medium shred): Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and a tender texture.
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, lightly drained: Brings juicy tropical flavor and moistness; reserve some juice for the glaze.
• 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened): Infuses sweet, chewy bites that enhance the island vibe.
• 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the batter perfectly without overpowering.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender.
• 4 large eggs: Adds richness and helps bind everything together.
• 1 tsp baking soda: For lift and lightness throughout.
• ½ tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise to tall, chunky perfection.
• ½ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Elevates the entire flavor profile.
• ½ cup chopped macadamia nuts (optional, highly recommended): Adds a delightful crunch to contrast the soft cake.
• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional): A warm hint for depth and complexity.
• For the Thick Cream Cheese Glaze:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the luscious glaze.
• 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze beautifully.
• 3–4 tbsp pineapple juice (reserved from the can): Gives a zesty tropical twist and perfect pourable consistency.

How to Make Moist Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake with Thick Cream Cheese Drip Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to lightly grease the sides so the cake can come out cleanly after baking. This pan size is key for creating those tall, chunky slices that make this cake so visually stunning.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This mixture will give your cake that perfect lift and structure.

Step 3: Make the Wet Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs. Whisk these until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Then stir in the grated carrots, lightly drained crushed pineapple, and vanilla extract. These bits of carrot and pineapple will add so much texture and moisture to every slice — you’ll love the chunky, fresh feeling.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Carefully fold the dry ingredient mix into the wet base using a spatula. The trick here is to fold gently and just until combined so you don’t overwork the batter, which helps keep it tender and wonderfully moist.

Step 5: Add Coconut and Nuts

Now it’s time to fold in the shredded coconut and those optional macadamia nuts. The nuts give a delightful crunch, while the coconut adds chewy bursts of tropical flavor. Your batter will thicken, which is exactly what you want for a dense, luxurious cake.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the thick batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Place it in the oven and bake for about 32 to 40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges should have a golden caramelized touch. Once done, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack until completely cooled.

Step 7: Make the Thick Cream Cheese Drip Glaze

Beat the softened cream cheese in a medium bowl until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and keep mixing. Slowly add the reserved pineapple juice a tablespoon at a time, until the glaze is glossy and thick but still pourable. This luscious texture makes the glaze perfect for dripping tantalizingly down your cake.

Step 8: Glaze the Cake

Place the cooled cake on a rack with parchment underneath to catch any drips. Pour the cream cheese glaze over the cake, letting it drip naturally down the sides. For extra flair, use a spoon to encourage some heavier drips or swirls. Let the glaze set for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing to enjoy your beautiful Moist Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake with Thick Cream Cheese Drip Glaze Recipe to the fullest.

How to Serve Moist Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake with Thick Cream Cheese Drip Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

To enhance the tropical vibe, sprinkle extra shredded coconut, a few chopped macadamia nuts, or even thin pineapple slices on top. These garnishes add color, texture, and a little extra indulgence to each serving.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with fresh fruit salads featuring pineapple, mango, or papaya, which echo the tropical flavors. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream complements the cream cheese glaze and adds a creamy touch to balance the cake’s natural sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering slices of the Moist Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake with fresh fruit and cream cheese frosting in a trifle for a stunning party dessert. You can also cut the cake into squares and serve it with mini skewers of tropical fruits for an elegant bite-sized treat. Presentation can turn this homey favorite into a showstopper for any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cream cheese glaze stays fresh and thick, and the cake remains moist for up to 4 days, so you can savor each slice without worry.

Freezing

You can freeze the unglazed cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator, then prepare the thick cream cheese drip glaze fresh before serving, ensuring your cake tastes just like day one.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy your cake warm, take a slice and let it come to room temperature first. For a cozy finish, microwave it for 10-15 seconds, but avoid heating the glaze directly to maintain its beautiful drip texture.

FAQs

Can I substitute the vegetable oil with butter?

Yes, melted butter can be used instead of vegetable oil. Just keep in mind the cake might have a slightly firmer texture and richer flavor, but it will still be delicious.

Do I have to use macadamia nuts?

No, macadamia nuts are optional. They add great crunch and island flair, but you can skip them or swap with pecans or walnuts based on your preference.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. The texture may vary slightly but it should turn out moist and tasty.

How do I prevent the glaze from being runny?

Make sure your cream cheese is softened, but not melted, and add the pineapple juice gradually. The glaze should be thick and glossy enough to drip slowly but not pool excessively.

Can this cake be made ahead for a party?

Definitely! Bake the cake a day ahead, cool completely, and store it tightly wrapped. Prepare and apply the glaze a few hours before serving for the freshest result.

Final Thoughts

This Moist Hawaiian Carrot Pineapple Cake with Thick Cream Cheese Drip Glaze Recipe is a delightful blend of tropical flavors that’s simple enough to become a regular favorite yet special enough for celebrations. Its moist, tender crumb combined with that tangy, thick cream cheese glaze is a match made in dessert heaven. I can’t recommend it enough for anyone looking to wow friends and family with a slice of sunshine on a plate. Give it a try and let the tropical magic brighten your day!

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