Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this easy and delicious Hawaiian Pineapple Cake! This cake is packed with juicy pineapple, making it super moist, light, and bursting with fresh flavor. Topped with a creamy frosting that complements the tropical sweetness, it’s the perfect dessert for summer gatherings, barbecues, or any time you want to bring a little sunshine to your kitchen.
This cake has a soft, tender crumb that comes together quickly with simple ingredients, making it a great go-to dessert. Whether you’re serving it at a luau or simply treating yourself, this cake will leave everyone wanting more!
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Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake
- Tropical Flavor: Sweet, juicy pineapple infuses the cake with a delicious tropical flavor in every bite.
- Super Moist: Thanks to the pineapple, this cake is incredibly moist and tender.
- Easy to Make: No fancy techniques needed—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer party, picnic, or just a family treat, this cake is a crowd-pleaser.
- Pairs Beautifully with Frosting: The light, tropical cake is topped with a creamy frosting that takes it to the next level.
What Does This Cake Taste Like?
This cake has a light, fruity flavor that’s sweet but not overly so. The pineapple gives it a natural tropical sweetness, while the cake remains soft and moist. Each bite is refreshing, making it the perfect dessert to enjoy on warm days. The frosting (either cream cheese or whipped topping, depending on your preference) adds a rich creaminess that balances the sweetness of the pineapple. It’s bright, fun, and a little taste of the islands!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, with juice (do not drain)
For the Frosting (Cream Cheese Frosting):
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (optional, to adjust consistency)
Optional Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded coconut (for a tropical finish)
- ½ cup chopped macadamia nuts (for crunch)
- Pineapple chunks or fresh fruit (for decoration)
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or electric mixer
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Cooling rack
- Spatula for frosting
Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
This recipe is versatile, and you can easily make it your own:
- Swap Frosting: Use whipped topping instead of cream cheese frosting for a lighter option.
- Add Coconut: Mix shredded coconut into the cake batter for added tropical flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the cake gluten-free.
- Add Pecans: For a little crunch, fold in ½ cup chopped pecans to the batter.
How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Cake
This cake is quick and easy to make! Just follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and vanilla extract together.
- Add the beaten eggs and the entire can of crushed pineapple (with juice) to the dry ingredients. Stir until the batter is just combined—be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 4: Frost the Cake
- Once the cake has cooled completely, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top using a spatula.
- For an extra tropical touch, sprinkle shredded coconut or chopped macadamia nuts on top. You can also decorate with pineapple chunks or fresh fruit for a beautiful presentation.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Now it’s time to slice into your Hawaiian Pineapple Cake and enjoy the tropical flavors. Whether served at a party or with an afternoon coffee, this cake is sure to be a hit.
What to Serve with Hawaiian Pineapple Cake
This cake is light and tropical, making it a great companion for:
- Iced Tea: The fruity flavor of the cake pairs beautifully with a refreshing iced tea.
- Piña Colada: For a truly tropical experience, serve this cake with a classic Piña Colada!
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A side of fresh fruit, like mango or kiwi, complements the pineapple in the cake.
Tips for Making the Best Hawaiian Pineapple Cake
- Use Pineapple in Juice, Not Syrup: For the best flavor and texture, use crushed pineapple that’s packed in its natural juice, not syrup.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter until just combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Make sure the cake is fully cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the unfrosted cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then frost and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake can be made a day in advance. Just wait to frost it until the day you plan to serve it for the freshest taste.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
You can, but make sure to crush it finely and include any juice. Fresh pineapple may have more liquid, so drain it slightly to avoid making the batter too watery.
Can I use a different pan size?
Yes! You can also bake this cake in two 9-inch round pans for a layer cake. Just adjust the baking time to 25-30 minutes and keep an eye on the cakes while they bake.
Conclusion
There you have it—Hawaiian Pineapple Cake, a tropical treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist, fruity flavor and creamy frosting, this cake brings the taste of the islands straight to your table. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just craving something sweet, this cake is guaranteed to bring a little sunshine to your day.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment or share your photos on Pinterest.
Nutritional Information (per slice)
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 33g
More Recipes to Try
If you loved this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake, check out these other tropical and summery desserts:
- Coconut Lime Cake: A zesty, tropical cake with a coconut twist.
- Mango Cheesecake Bars: Creamy cheesecake bars with a refreshing mango topping.
- Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: A classic tropical cake with caramelized pineapple and cherries.
Happy baking! 🍍
