If you’re looking for a cake that combines rich, buttery flavor with the tropical sweetness of pineapple, this Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake is the perfect choice. It’s moist, dense, and full of flavor, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. The addition of cream cheese ensures a tender crumb, while the pineapple adds a delightful tropical twist. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 sticks unsalted butter: Ensure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar: Adds a rich caramel-like sweetness to the cake.
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese: Softened to room temperature; it provides moisture and a tender texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and enhances the cake’s flavor.
- 5 large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together and providing structure.
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Contributes to the cake’s moistness and tanginess.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds richness and moisture.
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained: Provides a burst of tropical flavor; be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
- 3 cups Swans Down Cake Flour: Cake flour yields a lighter, more tender cake compared to all-purpose flour.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise and achieve a light texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
For the Icing:
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the icing and gives it a smooth consistency.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Adds richness and helps blend the ingredients together.
- 2 tablespoons crushed pineapple: Adds a hint of tropical flavor to the icing.
- Pineapple juice: Used to adjust the consistency of the icing; add as needed.
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or a similar-sized tube pan to ensure easy release of the cake.
- Mix the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Add the cream cheese and continue to beat until smooth and well combined.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk and sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Icing:
- In a medium bowl, combine the powdered sugar, melted butter, and crushed pineapple. Stir until smooth.
- Add pineapple juice a little at a time until the icing reaches a pourable consistency. Be careful not to add too much liquid; the icing should be thick but spreadable.
- Ice the Cake:
- Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the icing over the top. Let it set for a few minutes to allow the icing to firm up.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice and serve the cake. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.
Tips for Success
- Soften Ingredients: Ensure that the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
- Drain Pineapple Well: Make sure the crushed pineapple is well-drained to avoid adding excess moisture to the batter.
- Oven Thermometer: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature, as ovens can vary.
Variations
- Fruit Variations: Substitute crushed pineapple with other fruits like mango or peach for a different tropical twist.
- Nut Add-ins: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Coconut Addition: Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for an additional layer of tropical flavor.
This Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a delicious blend of rich butteriness, tangy cream cheese, and tropical pineapple. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist texture and delightful flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the blend of sweet and tangy notes in every slice!