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
Scale
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.
