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If you’ve ever dreamed of a cake that perfectly blends tropical sweetness with creamy indulgence, you’re in for a treat with this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe. Bursting with juicy crushed pineapple and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake brings sunshine to your kitchen any time of year. Its moist, tender crumb flecked with nuts (if you choose) creates a lovely texture that contrasts beautifully with the rich frosting. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a special celebration, this cake is sure to become a new favorite that brings smiles and savoring bites all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe lies in its simplicity, using everyday ingredients that come together to deliver that irresistible tropical vibe. Each item plays a crucial role, from the tangy crushed pineapple that keeps the cake moist to the cream cheese frosting that adds a smooth, luscious finish.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, balanced cake crumb.
- 2 cups sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve a perfect golden color.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and enrich the texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Provides the rise that makes the cake light and fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic depth to the batter.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors in the cake.
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple in juice (undrained): The star ingredient — delivers natural moisture and tropical sweetness.
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional): Brings delightful crunch and earthiness; walnuts or macadamias are perfect.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Key for a creamy, smooth frosting base.
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened: Provides that signature tangy creaminess for the frosting.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (frosting): Lifts the frosting’s flavor with subtle sweetness.
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to a spreadable perfection.
- Coconut or additional nuts for garnish (optional): Offers visual appeal and a final flavor boost.
How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan. Setting this up now means everything will smoothly come together when your batter is ready to be baked.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, vanilla, salt, and the undrained crushed pineapple. Mixing these ingredients well is essential to distribute the pineapple’s juices evenly and build a moist, flavorful cake base.
Step 3: Add the Nuts
If you’re including nuts, gently fold them into the batter now. Their crunch adds a lovely texture contrast but be careful not to overmix, as this can toughen the cake.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma during baking is utterly delightful and will make waiting next to impossible!
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake is baking, whip up the frosting by beating the softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. Slowly add the confectioners’ sugar, mixing thoroughly to achieve a rich but spreadable texture.
Step 6: Frost the Cake
Once the cake is done, spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm cake. This lets the frosting slightly melt into the surface, creating an irresistibly moist and flavorful top. Add toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts on top if you like a bit of extra flair.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to let the frosting set perfectly and the flavors meld. Then get ready to dive into bites of tropical bliss!
How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes or a handful of chopped macadamia nuts on top to enhance both flavor and visual appeal. These garnishes complement the natural sweetness of pineapple and add a wonderful texture that will delight everyone’s palate.
Side Dishes
This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch. For a refreshing balance, serve alongside fresh tropical fruits like mango or papaya slices.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, try serving this cake in bite-sized squares on a tropical-themed platter with miniature cocktail umbrellas or edible flowers. You could also drizzle a little pineapple juice reduction or passion fruit sauce over individual slices to amp up the tropical flair and wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for up to 4 days. The chilling helps the frosting firm up nicely, and the cake’s flavor actually improves overnight.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake either frosted or unfrosted. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in an airtight freezer bag. It will keep perfectly for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating
If you prefer serving the cake slightly warmed, slice your piece and microwave it for 10 to 15 seconds. This method softens the frosting and enhances the cake’s tropical aroma without drying the delicate crumb.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned crushed pineapple?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple will give an even brighter flavor, but make sure to drain any excess juice so your batter doesn’t get too watery. Keep its natural sweetness intact for the best result.
Is it necessary to use cream cheese for the frosting?
While cream cheese is traditional and gives that signature tangy richness, you could substitute with mascarpone for a milder taste or even a simple buttercream if you prefer a less tangy option.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Since gluten-free flours can behave differently, you might want to add an extra egg or reduce the liquid slightly for the best texture.
What nuts work best for this recipe?
Walnuts and macadamia nuts are classic choices thanks to their flavor and texture complement to pineapple. However, feel free to use pecans or almonds depending on your preference or what you have on hand.
How long will this cake last at room temperature?
Because of the cream cheese frosting, it’s best to keep this cake refrigerated and consume it within 3 to 4 days. Leaving it out at room temperature for extended periods can cause the frosting to spoil.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe is like capturing a slice of island paradise in your own kitchen — the sweet pineapple and rich cream cheese frosting combine for a truly irresistible dessert. Whether it’s your first time baking it or you’re revisiting a beloved recipe, this cake always delivers comfort, joy, and plenty of smiles. So go ahead, bake it, share it, and savor each blissful bite with the people you love!
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Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Hawaiian
Description
This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a moist and flavorful treat combining crushed pineapple and a rich cream cheese frosting. It features a tender crumb infused with tropical pineapple and a hint of vanilla, perfect for gatherings and celebrations. Optional chopped nuts add a delightful crunch, while a garnish of coconut or extra nuts adds a decorative, tropical touch.
Ingredients
Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- Coconut or additional nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly to ensure easy cake removal.
- Mix cake batter: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, salt, and crushed pineapple with its juice. Stir the mixture well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Add nuts (optional): Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped nuts if you desire a crunchy texture in your cake.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the frosting: While the cake bakes, beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, mixing until the frosting reaches a smooth consistency.
- Frost the cake: Once the cake is warm but not hot out of the oven, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Garnish with coconut flakes or additional nuts if desired for an added tropical flair.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean slices and optimal texture. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- The nuts in the recipe are optional; walnuts or macadamia nuts complement the pineapple flavor well.
- For extra moisture and flavor, do not drain the pineapple; the juice helps keep the cake tender.
- This cake pairs beautifully with tropical beverages or a cup of coffee.
- Make sure the frosting is spread while the cake is still warm to allow it to soften slightly and create a smooth finish.
