This Juicy Pineapple Cake is the perfect tropical-inspired dessert, combining the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple in a moist, tender cake. Bursting with juicy pineapple bits and topped with a light glaze, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or just a delicious treat to enjoy at home. It’s easy to make and packed with refreshing flavors, making it ideal for summer celebrations or whenever you need a taste of sunshine.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice)
- 1/2 cup reserved pineapple juice
For the Pineapple Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons reserved pineapple juice
Instructions
Make the Cake
- Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the reserved pineapple juice. Mix until just combined. Fold in the drained crushed pineapple until evenly distributed.
- Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Pineapple Glaze
- Mix Glaze Ingredients
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of the reserved pineapple juice until smooth. The glaze should be pourable but not too thin.
- Glaze the Cake
- Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled cake. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Drain the Pineapple: Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to prevent the cake from becoming too wet. Reserve the juice for use in both the cake and the glaze.
- Pan Size: You can also use a 9-inch round cake pan if desired. Just check for doneness a few minutes earlier.
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Recipe Variations
- Coconut Pineapple Cake: Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.
- Pineapple Upside-Down Version: Arrange pineapple rings and maraschino cherries at the bottom of the pan before adding the batter for a classic upside-down version.
- Nutty Addition: Fold in 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? A: Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Chop it finely and make sure to drain any excess juice before adding it to the batter.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Absolutely! This cake can be made a day ahead. Store it covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator, and glaze it before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this cake? A: Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and add the glaze before serving.
This Juicy Pineapple Cake is a refreshing and easy-to-make dessert that’s bursting with sweet, tropical flavors. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to enjoy with your family, this cake is sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful combination of pineapple and a light, fluffy cake that everyone will love!
