Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe: A Tropical Delight

If you’re looking to bring a taste of the tropics to your kitchen, this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is the perfect choice. Bursting with the flavors of sweet pineapple and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply craving something sweet and fruity, this cake will hit the spot. Best of all, it’s easy to make and can be ready in under an hour. With a serving size of 12, it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones!

Ingredients to Prepare

Before diving into the step-by-step process of making this delicious Hawaiian Pineapple Cake, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need. This recipe makes 12 servings, so it’s ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you want to impress with a homemade dessert.

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1 (20 oz) can of crushed pineapple (undrained) in its own juice (not syrup)
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• ½ cup butter (1 stick), softened
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar
• Coconut for garnish

How to Make

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s dive into the process of making this mouthwatering Hawaiian Pineapple Cake.

Preheat Your Oven

1. Preheat Oven:
   Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your cake doesn’t stick.

Prepare the Cake Batter

2. Mix the Dry and Wet Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
   • Add Pineapple:
     Pour in the undrained crushed pineapple and stir until the batter is fully blended. The pineapple not only adds flavor but also keeps the cake incredibly moist.
   • Optional Nuts:
     If you’re a fan of added texture, fold in 1 cup of chopped nuts. This step is optional, but it adds a delightful crunch to the cake.

Bake the Cake

3. Pour and Bake:
   • Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
   • Bake:
     Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean.
   • Cool:
     Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the dish before applying the frosting.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

4. Beat the Butter and Cream Cheese:
   • In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
   • Add Vanilla and Sugar:
     Add the vanilla extract and confectioners’ sugar. Beat the mixture until it’s smooth and well combined, with a light and fluffy texture.

Frost the Cake

5. Frost and Garnish:
   • Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
   • Garnish:
     Sprinkle the frosting with coconut flakes to add a tropical flair and a bit of texture.

Serve

6. Cut and Serve:
   Cut the cake into squares and serve. Each bite will transport you to a tropical paradise with its sweet and tangy pineapple flavor balanced by the rich cream cheese frosting.

Helpful Tips for Making Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

• Use Fresh Pineapple:
  If you have fresh pineapple on hand, you can use it instead of canned pineapple. Simply crush the pineapple and include the juice, ensuring you have about 20 ounces in total.
• Experiment with Nuts:
  If you’re not a fan of chopped nuts, consider substituting them with shredded coconut or leaving them out altogether.
• Chill the Cake:
  For a refreshing twist, chill the cake in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. The cool cake paired with the cream cheese frosting is perfect for warm days.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Cake

• Don’t Overmix:
  Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
• Check Your Oven Temperature:
  Oven temperatures can vary, so check your cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time. If the toothpick comes out with a few crumbs, it’s done.

Serving Suggestions

This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes can also elevate the flavors.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 4g
• Sugars: 40g

Storage and Leftovers

• Storage:
  Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• Freezing:
  If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake a day or two in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and it will taste just as fresh when you’re ready to serve it.

2. Can I substitute the cream cheese frosting with something else?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use whipped cream or a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and pineapple juice.

3. What can I use instead of nuts in the cake?
If you prefer not to use nuts, you can add shredded coconut or leave the nuts out entirely. The cake will still be delicious.

4. Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that it’s a 1:1 replacement to achieve the best results.

5. How do I know when the cake is done?
The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is ready.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a delightful, tropical-inspired dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its moist, pineapple-infused base and rich cream cheese frosting, it’s sure to impress both family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Try it today, and bring a taste of the islands to your table!

Enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake, and don’t forget to share the recipe with friends who are in need of a little tropical escape!

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