If you are craving a dessert that transports your taste buds straight to a sunny beach, this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with juicy crushed pineapple and the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, this cake feels like a tropical getaway with every bite. Moist, tender, and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, it’s a beloved treat that embodies the spirit of island life right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe just right comes down to a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering that moist texture, rich flavor, and delightful appearance that make this cake so irresistible.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives the cake structure and a tender crumb.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly while helping it brown during baking.
- 2 teaspoons baking soda: Provides lift and lightness, making the cake fluffy and soft.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Add moisture and help bind all ingredients together beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic note that complements the pineapple.
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple with juice: The star ingredient that keeps the cake incredibly moist and bursting with tropical flavor.
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty undertone for texture contrast.
- For the frosting:
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened: Creates a rich, tangy frosting that pairs perfectly with the pineapple.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds smoothness and richness to the frosting.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting to creamy perfection.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor with a hint of warmth and sweetness.
How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Mix
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your cake will have a nice even rise and won’t stick. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients combine to create the perfect cake base that will be light and sweet without being dense.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
Next, add the eggs, vanilla extract, and the entire can of crushed pineapple with its juice into the dry ingredients. The pineapple juice acts as a natural sweetener and moisture source, so you don’t need to add any oil or butter here. Stir everything gently until just combined – be careful not to overmix, to keep the cake tender.
Step 3: Add Nuts (Optional)
For a delightful nutty crunch, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans now. They complement the tropical sweetness perfectly and add an extra layer of texture, but feel free to skip them if you prefer a nut-free dessert.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is a sure sign you’re on the right track!
Step 5: Prepare the Frosting
While the cake cools completely – this is key before frosting – beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue mixing until you have a luscious frosting that’s ready to spread over your tropical masterpiece.
Step 6: Frost and Chill
Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. For the best slicing and serving experience, chill the cake for a bit to let the frosting set. This cake is now ready to impress everyone with its bold, juicy flavors and creamy finish.
How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe by sprinkling toasted coconut flakes or extra chopped nuts on top of the frosting for a beautiful presentation and added texture. Fresh pineapple chunks or a sprig of mint also make lovely, refreshing garnishes that tie in the tropical theme.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement its moistness and tangy pineapple flavor. For a more tropical feast, consider serving alongside fresh fruit salad or even a light fruit sorbet to keep things bright and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or special occasions, cut the cake into small squares and serve on a platter with cocktail picks, making them easy to grab and enjoy. You could also layer pieces between slices of toasted pineapple or wrap individual slices in banana leaves for a festive Hawaiian-inspired presentation that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Storing it chilled not only preserves the frosting but also keeps the cake moist and fresh, ensuring every bite tastes as delightful as the first.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this cake later, it freezes very well. Simply wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen, the cake will stay delicious for up to 2 months and thaw quickly in the refrigerator when ready to serve.
Reheating
While the Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is typically enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, you can warm a slice gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if you prefer a softer texture. Just avoid overheating, especially if the frosting is on, to prevent melting or separation.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh crushed pineapple, but be sure to include the juice as it adds essential moisture to the cake. Drain some of the excess juice if it seems too watery to avoid a soggy cake.
What can I substitute for the nuts in this recipe?
If you prefer to avoid nuts, you can simply omit them or add shredded coconut for a different texture and tropical flair without changing the overall moistness.
Is this cake gluten-free?
The traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, but adjust liquid amounts if needed since gluten-free flours behave differently.
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cream cheese and butter substitutes in the frosting. The cake itself doesn’t contain butter or oil, so it’s already quite adaptable for different dietary needs.
How long does it take to make this cake from start to finish?
The entire process, from mixing ingredients to frosting the cooled cake, takes about 50 minutes, including bake time. It’s a fairly quick tropical treat perfect for both everyday desserts and special occasions.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe is an absolute treasure for anyone who loves moist, flavorful desserts with a sunny, tropical twist. Easy to make and endlessly satisfying, it’s a wonderful way to brighten any gathering or to treat yourself. I encourage you to whip up this cake soon and experience its island-inspired magic firsthand. You won’t regret adding this beauty to your recipe collection!
Print
Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert featuring crushed pineapple, which keeps the cake tender without the need for additional oil or butter in the batter. Combined with a creamy cream cheese frosting, this tropical-inspired cake offers a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple with juice (do not drain)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Frosting
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Add wet ingredients: Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and the entire can of crushed pineapple along with its juice. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fold in nuts: If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans evenly into the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before applying the frosting.
- Prepare the frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is well blended and fluffy.
- Frost the cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake surface. Chill the frosted cake slightly to set the frosting before slicing and serving.
Notes
- This cake is naturally moist due to the pineapple and does not require oil or butter in the batter.
- You can omit the frosting for a lighter dessert option.
- For a tropical twist, top the frosted cake with toasted coconut flakes.
