If you’ve ever dreamed of bringing a little tropical sunshine into your kitchen, this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a moist, tender cake bursting with juicy crushed pineapple, lightly sweetened and crowned with a luscious cream cheese frosting that’s just rich enough to feel indulgent but never overwhelming. This dessert captures the vibrant flavors of the islands in every bite, making it a perfect treat for gatherings or whenever you want a sweet escape. It’s one of those recipes that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, turning simple pantry staples into a tropical celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Hawaiian treat is a breeze thanks to straightforward ingredients that each play a special role in turning out the perfect cake. From the tangy crushed pineapple that lends moisture and flavor, to the smooth cream cheese frosting that adds richness, everything comes together for a memorable dessert experience.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, providing structure and fluffiness.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens and balances the tart pineapple, enhancing the overall flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Help bind the ingredients and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent to make the cake light and tender.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic depth to the batter.
- Pinch of salt: Elevates all the flavors by balancing sweetness.
- 1 (20-ounce) can of crushed pineapple (undrained): The star ingredient that keeps the cake moist with a delightful tropical tang.
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional): Adds a lovely crunch and nutty richness, perfect if you like texture contrast.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: For the luscious cream cheese frosting, lending smoothness and flavor.
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened: The secret to that creamy, tangy frosting that perfectly complements the cake.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Enhances the frosting’s flavor with a hint of sweetness.
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect spreadable consistency.
- Coconut for garnish (optional): Adds a beautiful tropical touch and subtle chewiness.
How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking pan. This is a crucial first step because a well-prepared pan means your cake will bake evenly and come out beautifully without sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Next, pour in the crushed pineapple along with its juice — this ensures your cake stays moist and flavorful. Stir everything until just combined. If you love a bit of crunch, gently fold in those chopped nuts now, adding an exciting texture that pairs wonderfully with the soft cake.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pour your freshly mixed batter into the greased pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the cake turns a warm golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This baking time lets the flavors meld beautifully while creating a tender crumb.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake is baking, whip up the frosting by beating the softened butter and cream cheese together until creamy and smooth. Slowly add the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the texture is just right for spreading. This frosting will add that luscious, tangy contrast you’re craving with each slice.
Step 5: Frost While Warm
Once the cake has slightly cooled but is still warm, spread your cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. The warmth helps the frosting melt into the cake just a little, creating pockets of gooey sweetness. Sprinkle shredded coconut and extra chopped nuts if you want to elevate the tropical vibe even more.
Step 6: Allow and Serve
Let the frosting set up at room temperature before slicing. This resting time ensures clean cuts and a balanced bite of cake and frosting together. Now, it’s time to enjoy this delightful tropical treat.
How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For a tropical flourish, toasted coconut flakes work beautifully, adding a subtle crunch and a hint of smokiness. A sprinkle of extra chopped macadamia nuts or walnuts can also enhance the texture and presentation, making each slice look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to add creaminess and balance the natural tang from the pineapple. Fresh tropical fruit on the side, like sliced mango or kiwi, can turn your dessert into a full-on Hawaiian inspired celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the cake as individual squares on pretty tropical-themed plates, or cut into mini portions for a party platter. Another fun twist is to layer it into a trifle with whipped cream and chopped pineapple for a show-stopping presentation that keeps all the flavors front and center.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply cover your leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy a slice or two throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake either before or after frosting it. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then with foil, or keep the cake unfrosted for easier slicing later. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and freshness.
Reheating
To bring your cake back to life, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. This helps soften the cream cheese frosting and revives that freshly baked feel, making every bite taste like it was just made.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the cake’s texture. Fresh pineapple adds a beautiful brightness, though canned is great for consistent sweetness and juiciness.
What nuts work best in this recipe?
Macadamia nuts or walnuts are classic choices that complement the tropical flavors beautifully, but feel free to experiment with pecans or almonds based on your preference.
Is the frosting necessary?
The cream cheese frosting is traditional and adds a wonderful tangy richness that balances the sweet pineapple, but the cake is still delicious on its own if you prefer a lighter version.
Can I make this a gluten-free version?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just make sure your blend includes xanthan gum for proper texture.
How long does the cake keep its freshness?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the cake stays fresh and moist for up to 4 days, with the flavors only getting better as they meld.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a little tropical vacation wrapped in every bite. Whether you’re baking it for family, a potluck, or just because, the combination of moist pineapple cake and creamy frosting is sure to bring smiles all around. Don’t hesitate to give it a try — it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy a taste of the islands anytime you want.
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Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert combining the tropical sweetness of crushed pineapple with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for gatherings and celebrations, this classic cake is enhanced with optional chopped nuts and garnished with coconut for added texture and taste.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple (undrained, in its own juice, not syrup)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Frosting Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Coconut for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the undrained crushed pineapple until well incorporated. If using, fold in the chopped nuts gently.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the cake bakes, beat softened butter and cream cheese together until creamy. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and spreadable.
- Frost the Cake: When the cake is slightly cooled but still warm, evenly spread the cream cheese frosting on top. Garnish with shredded coconut and additional chopped nuts as desired.
- Set and Serve: Let the frosting set before cutting into squares. Serve the cake warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Using undrained crushed pineapple keeps the cake moist and flavorful.
- Chopped nuts are optional but add a nice crunch; walnuts or macadamia nuts are popular choices.
- Allowing the cake to cool slightly before frosting prevents the icing from melting.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh.
- This cake can be made a day ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before serving for best taste.
