Delightful Tropical Treat: Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe

Get ready to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with this luscious Hawaiian Pineapple Cake. Bursting with the sweet flavors of pineapple and topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting, this cake is a delightful combination of moist texture and tropical goodness. Whether you’re hosting a luau-themed party or simply craving a taste of the islands, this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create this irresistible dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (undrained)
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), softened
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
• Coconut for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
   • Stir in the crushed pineapple (including the juice) and chopped nuts, if using, until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
2. Bake the Cake:
   • Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan before frosting.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
   • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the vanilla extract and confectioners’ sugar, and continue to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. Frost the Cake:
   • Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
   • If desired, sprinkle shredded coconut over the frosting for an extra tropical touch.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Slice the Hawaiian Pineapple Cake into squares and serve. Enjoy the tropical flavors and creamy goodness!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Add Coconut Flakes: For an extra burst of coconut flavor, add shredded coconut to the cake batter before baking, or sprinkle it over the frosting as a garnish.
• Pineapple Tidbits: Instead of crushed pineapple, you can use pineapple tidbits for added texture and visual appeal.
• Nuts Variations: Feel free to use your favorite nuts in the cake batter, such as chopped pecans or walnuts, or omit them altogether for a nut-free option.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• Keto-Friendly Option: Substitute almond flour for the all-purpose flour, and use a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of sugar. For the frosting, use powdered erythritol or powdered monk fruit sweetener instead of confectioners’ sugar. Keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary slightly from the original recipe.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Reduce the amount of flour and sugar in the cake batter by half or more, and increase the number of eggs to maintain the structure of the cake. Use a sugar-free syrup or pineapple extract for flavoring instead of crushed pineapple.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? A: Yes, you can use fresh pineapple in this recipe. Simply chop the pineapple into small pieces and use it in place of the canned crushed pineapple. Adjust the quantity to your taste preference.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can bake the cake ahead of time and store it, unfrosted, in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Frost the cake just before serving for best results.

Q: Can I freeze this cake? A: Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.

Q: Can I use a different frosting? A: Certainly! While cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with this cake, you can also use whipped cream, vanilla buttercream, or a pineapple glaze for a different flavor profile.

Indulge in a taste of the tropics with this delightful Hawaiian Pineapple Cake. With its moist texture, sweet pineapple flavor, and creamy cream cheese frosting, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser that will transport you to paradise with every bite. Whether enjoyed as a dessert for special occasions or as a sweet treat any day of the week, this cake is sure to brighten your day and satisfy your sweet cravings. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience a slice of Hawaiian heaven right in your own kitchen!