Coconut-Pineapple Carrot Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 40 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A moist, flavorful carrot cake infused with coconut and pineapple, topped with cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or a sweet treat for coconut and fruit lovers.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups flour
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 3 eggs
  • 3/4 cup buttermilk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 2 cups grated carrots
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup oil
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 small can drained crushed pineapple
  • 1 cup walnuts

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
  2. Pour batter into a 9 x 18-inch baking pan.
  3. Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes.
  4. Allow the cake to cool before frosting.
  5. Top with your favorite cream cheese frosting.

Tips & Substitutions

For a moister cake, consider adding an extra 1/2 cup of crushed pineapple or substituting part of the oil with unsweetened applesauce. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Ensure the grated carrots are finely shredded for even distribution of flavor throughout the cake.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delightful cake with your favorite cream cheese frosting for a sweet finish. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Consider adding a side of fresh fruit or a light salad, such as Grandma Lowe'S Cole Slaw, for a balanced meal experience.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Coconut-Pineapple Carrot Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To keep it fresh, you can also freeze individual slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, microwave a slice for about 20-30 seconds or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Coconut-Pineapple Carrot Cake contains roughly 592 calories, with 11g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (59% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1020mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).

592 kcal 30% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10.7g 21% DV
Total Fat 39.2g 50% DV
Carbs 46.3g 17% DV
Fiber 7.3g 26% DV
Sugar 21g 42% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1020.3mg 44% DV
Potassium 718.6mg 15% DV
Cholesterol 8.6mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 533.3mcg 59% DV
Vitamin C 8mg 9% DV
Vitamin D 0.5mcg 3% DV
Calcium 198.3mg 15% DV
Iron 2.5mg 14% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of nut instead of walnuts?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor and texture. If you're looking for a nut-free option, you can simply omit them or use sunflower seeds for added crunch.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Be sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum for proper texture. Check all other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Just store it covered at room temperature until you're ready to frost and serve. For even better flavor, frost it the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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