This Tropical Sunshine Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert packed with fresh pineapple, carrots, coconut, and warm spices, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion where you want a taste of paradise!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups (220g) shredded carrots
- 1 cup (180g) crushed pineapple, drained
- ¾ cup (60g) shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
- ½ cup (60g) chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups (440g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp pineapple juice (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
Make the Cake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in shredded carrots, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts (if using).
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy.
- Mix in vanilla extract and pineapple juice (if using) for extra tropical flavor.
Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top.
- Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.
- Decorate with toasted coconut, chopped nuts, or pineapple slices for a tropical touch.
Tips for the Best Tropical Sunshine Cake:
✔️ Use fresh ingredients – Freshly grated carrots and real pineapple make a difference!
✔️ Drain the pineapple well – Too much moisture can make the cake too dense.
✔️ Chill the cake before slicing – This helps the frosting set for cleaner cuts.
Enjoy your Tropical Sunshine Cake, a perfect blend of fruity, nutty, and spiced flavors that bring a taste of the tropics to your table! 🌞🍍✨