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
Scale
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.
