Tropical Carrot Pisces Cake

Name: Tropical Carrot Pisces Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups grated carrots; 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained; 1/2 cup shredded coconut; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup shredded coconut for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Sweet Recipes

When I first set out to create a cake that celebrates both the tropics and the charm of carrot flavors, I never expected the result to be so vibrant and delicious. This Tropical Carrot Pisces Cake blends the warmth of spices with the freshness of tropical fruits, creating a delightful fusion that’s perfect for any occasion. I love how the moist carrot base complements the zesty notes of pineapple and coconut, making each slice feel like a mini vacation on a plate. It’s a true crowd-pleaser and a beautiful centerpiece for gatherings!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-25T16:10:27.823Z

Creating this Tropical Carrot Pisces Cake was a joyful culinary adventure that I can’t wait to share with you. I experimented with adding pineapple and coconut, which not only adds natural sweetness but also gives the cake an incredible light texture. Trust me, the flavors harmonize beautifully, and everyone will be asking for the recipe!

One of the tips I found invaluable was to grate the carrots finely. This ensures they blend seamlessly into the batter, giving the cake a moist and Tender crumb. I also recommend letting the cake cool completely before frosting to achieve a smooth finish and avoid any melting of your frosting!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A tropical twist on a classic carrot cake
Moist and fluffy texture thanks to fresh ingredients
Bright flavors of pineapple and coconut combine perfectly

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh carrots, pineapple, and coconut is essential for achieving the moist, flavorful profile of this Tropical Carrot Pisces Cake. The grated carrots provide a tender crumb and natural sweetness, while the crushed pineapple not only adds moisture but also enhances the cake's fruity essence. If fresh pineapple isn't on hand, you can substitute with quality canned pineapple, but ensure it's well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

Shredded coconut contributes a delightful texture and complements the tropical theme. Opt for unsweetened coconut for a more natural flavor. If you're looking to reduce fat content, try using Greek yogurt in place of half of the oil—it will keep the cake moist while adding a slight tang.

Frosting Techniques

The frosting on this cake is an essential component that balances the spices in the cake. Be sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing; this helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture. If the frosting appears too thick after incorporating the powdered sugar, you can add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it, creating a perfectly spreadable consistency.

For an elegant presentation, use a spatula to create swirls and peaks on the frosted cake. Adding shredded coconut on top not only provides visual appeal but also a nice crunch. When assembling, place small dabs of frosting between layers to stabilize the cake and help prevent slipping during transport.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This cake can be prepared ahead of time, making it ideal for gatherings. Bake the layers a day in advance and store them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste. If you need to keep it longer, freeze the un-frosted layers: wrap each cake in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container, where they can last up to three months.

When storing the frosted cake, keep it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for about 5–7 days. To serve, simply remove it about 30 minutes before to let it come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture. If you're celebrating a special occasion, feel free to scale the recipe up to three layers or even create cupcakes for individual servings!

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups grated carrots
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

For the Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup shredded coconut for garnish

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl to get started baking!

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, sugar, and eggs until well combined. Stir in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and shredded coconut.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake. Garnish with additional shredded coconut.

Slice and enjoy your delicious Tropical Carrot Pisces Cake!

Pro Tips

For an extra tropical flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or a splash of rum to the batter for a grown-up twist!

Serving Suggestions

For an extra tropical flair, consider adding a side of whipped cream infused with coconut or a scoop of coconut ice cream. This pairs beautifully with the spices and elevates the dessert experience. You can also serve slices with a drizzle of pineapple syrup for an extra burst of flavor.

This cake works wonderfully as a birthday cake or a festive dish for celebrations. To make it even more special, consider decorating it with tropical fruits like mango or kiwi slices for a vibrant display.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different variations of this recipe! Adding a splash of orange juice or zest can introduce a lovely citrus note that brightens the flavors. Alternatively, consider mixing in chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor contrast.

For a spicier kick, increase the cinnamon or add a pinch of ginger or cardamom to the batter. Each adjustment can give a unique twist to the original recipe while still keeping the delightful essence of the Tropical Carrot Pisces Cake.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake layers dome too much while baking, it may be due to overmixing the batter. To avoid this, mix until just combined after adding the dry ingredients. Also, ensure your oven is calibrated correctly, as incorrect temperatures can lead to unexpected baking results.

If you find the cake is too dry, consider reducing the baking time slightly. Each oven is different, so it’s wise to check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs for the perfect bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.

→ How can I make this cake vegan?

You can replace eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based cream cheese for the frosting.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I add nuts to the batter?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch and flavor.