Pineapple Cake is a delightful and moist dessert that combines the tropical flavor of pineapple with the richness of a cream cheese frosting. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to casual family gatherings. Its unique flavor profile and texture make it a standout treat that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this delicious Pineapple Cake step-by-step.
Ingredients
Pineapple Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 8-ounce cans crushed pineapple with juice (reserve 3 tablespoons juice)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Pineapple Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
- 1 8-ounce box cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 1/2 – 4 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons reserved pineapple juice
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the beaten eggs, vegetable oil, crushed pineapple with juice (except the reserved 3 tablespoons), and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Add Pecans: Fold in the chopped pecans gently.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan(s) and spread it out evenly.
- Bake: 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 completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
Step 3: Prepare the Pineapple Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- Add Pineapple Juice and Coconut Flakes: Beat in the reserved pineapple juice and sweetened coconut flakes until well combined.
Step 4: Frost the Cake
- Frost the Cake: Spread the pineapple cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. If using two round cake pans, frost between the layers and on top and sides of the cake.
- Garnish: Garnish with additional coconut flakes or chopped pecans, if desired.
Step 5: Serve
- Chill Before Serving: For best results, chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the cake into squares or wedges and serve. Enjoy the tropical flavors of this delicious Pineapple Cake!
Cooking Notes
- Canned Pineapple: Be sure to use crushed pineapple with juice, not in syrup, for the best flavor and texture.
- Frosting Consistency: Adjust the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting to achieve your desired consistency. More sugar will make it thicker, while less will make it softer.
- Nuts: If you have nut allergies or prefer not to use pecans, you can omit them or substitute with walnuts or almonds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out.
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? A: Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Simply crush the pineapple in a blender or food processor and use it along with its juice. You may need to adjust the amount of sugar depending on the sweetness of the fresh pineapple.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: What can I serve with this cake? A: This Pineapple Cake pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s also delightful with a cup of coffee or tea.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this recipe, follow these modifications:
- Sweeteners: Replace the granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
- Flour: Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour. Adjust the quantity as needed since these flours absorb moisture differently.
- Frosting: Use a sugar-free powdered sweetener in place of the powdered sugar.
Pineapple Cake is a rich, moist, and flavorful dessert that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. With its creamy frosting and sweet pineapple flavor, this cake is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this Pineapple Cake is a delightful choice.
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