Hawaiian Pineapple Cake: A Tropical Delight That Steals the Show

Name: Hawaiian Pineapple Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour; 2 cups of sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon of baking soda; 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract; A pinch of salt; 1 can (20 oz) of crushed pineapple (undrained, in its own juice, not syrup); 1 cup of chopped nuts (optional); ½ cup (1 stick) of butter, softened; 8 oz of cream cheese, softened; 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract; 1½ cups of confectioners’ sugar; Shredded coconut for garnish (optional)

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If you’re dreaming of a dessert that’s the perfect blend of sweetness, tropical flavor, and ease of preparation, look no further than Hawaiian pineapple cake. This moist, flavorful cake, topped with creamy frosting, is a showstopper at any gathering. Whether it’s a family potluck, a birthday celebration, or just an ordinary day, this cake guarantees to impress.

In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about Hawaiian pineapple cake, from its ingredients to expert tips and tricks to make it the best cake you’ve ever baked. Let’s dive into the tropics!

Why You’ll Love Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

What makes Hawaiian pineapple cake stand out from the crowd?

Tropical Flavor: The crushed pineapple adds a burst of freshness, sweetness, and tanginess.
Simple Preparation: No need for fancy equipment or techniques—just mix, bake, and frost!
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s versatile enough to serve at casual picnics or elegant parties.

Customizable: You can tweak the recipe with nuts, coconut, or even additional fruits.

The Star Ingredient: Pineapple

The hero of this cake is undoubtedly the pineapple. Packed with natural sweetness, pineapple adds not only a delightful flavor but also moisture, which makes the cake irresistibly soft.

Fun Facts About Pineapple:

Pineapples are rich in Vitamin C, aiding in immune support and skin health.

This tropical fruit contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps with digestion.
Using pineapple in desserts creates a natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugar.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this tropical treat:

Cake Ingredients:

2 cups of all-purpose flour: The base for structure and texture.
2 cups of sugar: Provides sweetness and helps retain moisture.
2 large eggs: For binding and richness.

1 teaspoon of baking soda: Ensures the cake rises beautifully.
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
A pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness.

1 can (20 oz) of crushed pineapple: The star ingredient—use undrained for maximum moisture.
1 cup of chopped nuts (optional): Adds crunch and nuttiness.

Cream Cheese Frosting:

½ cup (1 stick) of butter: For a creamy and rich base.

8 oz of cream cheese: Adds tanginess and smooth texture.
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Complements the pineapple flavor.
1½ cups of confectioners’ sugar: For sweetness and structure.

Shredded coconut (optional): Perfect for garnish and extra tropical flair.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

Making Hawaiian pineapple cake is a breeze. Follow these simple steps for guaranteed success.

Preparing the Cake:

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, salt, and undrained crushed pineapple. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
Optional Additions: If desired, fold in chopped nuts or shredded coconut for added texture.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

Cool Slightly: Allow the cake to cool slightly while you prepare the frosting.

Making the Frosting:

Cream the Base: Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until fluffy.
Add Vanilla and Sugar: Mix in the vanilla extract, then gradually add the confectioners’ sugar until fully incorporated.

Frost the Cake: Spread the frosting generously over the warm cake for a slightly melted, glazed effect.
Garnish: Top with shredded coconut or nuts, if desired.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Pineapple Cake

Use the Juice: Always use undrained pineapple to keep the cake moist.

Warm Frosting Hack: Frost the cake while it’s still warm for a glazed texture.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Make Ahead: The cake (unfrosted) can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and frost before serving.

Customization: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm spice twist.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

While Hawaiian pineapple cake is a treat, it offers a few nutritional perks thanks to the pineapple. Here’s the approximate breakdown per serving:

Nutrition Details:

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of the cake)

Calories: ~320
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g

Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Sodium: 180mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 35g

Vitamin C: 10% of the Daily Value
Calcium: 4% of the Daily Value
Iron: 6% of the Daily Value

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes! If you’re using fresh pineapple, finely chop it and include the juices. You’ll need approximately 2 cups.

How can I make this cake dairy-free?

Swap the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use vegan butter in the frosting.

Can I make cupcakes with this recipe?

Absolutely! Pour the batter into lined cupcake tins and bake for 20–25 minutes.

What other toppings go well with this cake?

Try a drizzle of caramel sauce, toasted coconut flakes, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

How do I prevent the cake from being too dense?

Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to a dense texture. Mix just until combined.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian pineapple cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a little slice of paradise. Its moist texture, tropical flavors, and creamy frosting make it a dessert you’ll turn to again and again. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to transport your taste buds straight to the Hawaiian islands. So, grab your ingredients and get baking today!

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