If you’re dreaming of a tropical treat that’s bursting with vibrant flavors and a creamy, luscious finish, then you’re going to love this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. This cake combines moist, pineapple-infused layers with a tangy-sweet cream cheese frosting that perfectly balances the natural sweetness of the fruit. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like a sunny getaway in every bite, ideal for sharing with friends or savoring yourself whenever you need a little tropical escape.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy of baking this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role in creating the cake’s tender texture, fresh flavor, and irresistible richness. From the juicy crushed pineapple adding moisture and zing to the velvety cream cheese frosting, these essentials are simple yet pack a punch.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for a soft, moist cake.
- 2 cups sugar: Sweetens the cake evenly while helping create a tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise gently to a fluffy perfection.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet aroma that complements the pineapple.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors by balancing sweetness.
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple in juice (undrained): The star ingredient—moistens the cake and adds tropical brightness.
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor if you like some texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: For making the creamy, rich frosting.
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened: Forms the base of the luscious cream cheese frosting that’s tangy and sweet.
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the frosting while keeping it silky smooth.
- Coconut or additional nuts for garnish (optional): Adds a lovely final touch of tropical flair and texture.
How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly to ensure the cake releases easily once baked. This simple prep step sets you up perfectly for a smooth baking process.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, salt, and the crushed pineapple with its juice. This mixture brings together the dry and wet ingredients, creating a batter that’s moist and packed with tropical flavor. Stir gently but thoroughly until it’s well blended and smooth.
Step 3: Add Nuts for Extra Crunch
If you’re adding nuts, fold them in now. They add delightful texture and a slight nuttiness that beautifully complements the sweet pineapple, but this step is totally optional depending on your preference.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your greased pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will fill with an irresistible tropical aroma that tells you the cake is near perfection.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting by beating together the softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, mixing until the frosting is velvety and just sweet enough to balance the tang of the cream cheese.
Step 6: Frost and Garnish
Once the cake is out of the oven and still warm, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. The warmth slightly melts the frosting into the cake for an extra luscious finish. Sprinkle with coconut flakes or additional nuts if you like an extra touch of tropical goodness.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. This helps the frosting set perfectly and ensures clean, beautiful slices that showcase the cake’s moist texture and creamy topping.
How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Hawaiian Pineapple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe by garnishing it with toasted coconut flakes for a bit of crunch and a subtle smoky sweetness. Chopped macadamia nuts or pecans are also fantastic options for adding a nutty, textural contrast.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides like a tropical fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement its moist richness. A cup of hot tea or fresh coconut water can also balance its sweetness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, consider serving your cake in individual mini pans or cutting it into bite-sized squares and skewering them with fresh pineapple chunks for a fun party treat. Layer it in a trifle dish with whipped cream and pineapple slices for an elegant presentation everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Hawaiian Pineapple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps keep the frosting fresh and the cake moist, allowing you to enjoy it for 3 to 4 days after baking.
Freezing
You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Once ready to enjoy, thaw completely before spreading the cream cheese frosting to preserve its fresh taste and texture.
Reheating
Since this is a frosted cake, it’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer it slightly warm, let individual slices sit out for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving to preserve the frosting’s creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I substitute fresh pineapple for canned?
While fresh pineapple can be used, canned crushed pineapple in juice helps keep the cake moist and evenly distributed. If using fresh, drain excess juice slightly to prevent watering down the batter.
Is it necessary to use cream cheese in the frosting?
The cream cheese adds a delightful tang and creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly. Without it, the frosting would lack the signature richness that makes this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe so special.
Can I make this cake nut-free?
Absolutely! The nuts are optional and can be omitted entirely without compromising the cake’s moist texture or flavor. If you skip them, consider adding a little shredded coconut for added texture.
How long does it take to bake this cake?
The cake typically bakes for 35 to 40 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating it’s cooked through and ready for frosting.
What’s the best way to cut and serve this cake?
Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing with a sharp knife. Clean the knife between cuts to keep each piece neat, especially because the cream cheese frosting is rich and creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a delightful way to bring tropical sunshine right into your kitchen. With its moist, flavorful cake and dreamy frosting, it’s a dessert that’s sure to become a beloved classic in your recipe collection. Don’t wait to try it—your taste buds will thank you for this delicious island-inspired treat!
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Hawaiian Pineapple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert combining sweet crushed pineapple and chopped nuts with a tender buttery cake base, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for gatherings or a tropical-inspired treat, this cake balances fruity freshness with rich creaminess for a delightful bite every time.
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). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and the entire can of crushed pineapple including the juice. Stir the mixture well to evenly incorporate all ingredients.
- Add Nuts: Fold in the chopped nuts gently if you are using them to add texture and flavor to the cake.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking pan. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Prepare Frosting: While the cake is baking, beat the softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract together in a mixing bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and continue beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Frost and Garnish: Remove the cake from the oven and while it is still warm, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Garnish with coconut flakes or additional chopped nuts if desired for extra flavor and decoration.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. This helps the frosting set properly and makes the slices neat and easy to serve.
Notes
- For a nuttier flavor, use macadamia nuts to keep with the Hawaiian theme.
- Make sure the cream cheese and butter are softened properly for a smooth frosting texture.
- You can substitute the nuts or coconut garnish based on dietary preferences or omit them completely.
- This cake is best served at room temperature and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The undrained crushed pineapple keeps the cake moist and flavorful; do not drain the juice.
