Introduction
The Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a delightful and moist dessert that brings the tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut together in a simple yet indulgent cake. The crushed pineapple keeps the cake incredibly moist, while the cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy contrast. Garnished with coconut, this cake is a perfect treat for any occasion, offering a taste of the islands with every bite.
Overview of the Recipe
This recipe combines the bright, fruity flavor of crushed pineapple with a soft, tender cake base. The cake is topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and garnished with coconut, giving it an extra tropical flair. The recipe is easy to follow and can be prepared in just under an hour, making it a great option for both novice bakers and experienced cooks.
Servings: 12
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Calories per Serving: Approximately 400 kcal
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb.
- 2 cups sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps to create a moist texture.
- 2 eggs: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Leavens the cake, helping it rise and become fluffy.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet, aromatic note.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained: The key ingredient that provides moisture and a tropical flavor.
- 1 cup chopped nuts, optional: Adds crunch and a nutty flavor (optional, based on preference).
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter: Adds richness and creaminess to the frosting.
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened: The base of the frosting, providing a tangy, creamy texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the frosting.
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
For Garnish:
- Shredded coconut: Adds a tropical touch and a bit of texture to the finished cake.
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the cake from sticking.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of sugar, 1 tsp of baking soda, 1 tsp of vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and the 2 large eggs.
- Add the entire can of crushed pineapple, including the juice, to the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined and smooth. If you choose to include the chopped nuts, fold them into the batter at this stage.
3. Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the pan while you prepare the frosting.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a medium-sized bowl, beat together 1/2 cup of softened butter and 8 oz of softened cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add 1 tsp of vanilla extract and gradually mix in 1 1/2 cups of confectioners’ sugar. Continue beating until the frosting is well combined and has a smooth, spreadable consistency.
5. Frost the Cake
- While the cake is still warm, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake. The warmth of the cake will help the frosting spread more easily and soak into the top layer, adding extra moisture and flavor.
- If desired, sprinkle the frosted cake with shredded coconut for a tropical garnish. You can also add more chopped nuts on top for additional crunch.
6. Serve
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving. The cake can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled, depending on your preference.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages:
- Coffee or Tea: The rich flavors of the cake are complemented by a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it an excellent choice for a midday snack or dessert.
- Tropical Drinks: Serve with a refreshing tropical drink, such as a pineapple smoothie, coconut water, or a non-alcoholic piña colada, to enhance the island-inspired flavors.
- Fresh Fruit: Pair the cake with a side of fresh tropical fruits like mango, papaya, or kiwi for a light, fruity contrast.
Variations of the Recipe
There are several ways to customize this cake to suit your taste:
- Coconut Pineapple Cake: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut directly to the cake batter for even more tropical flavor.
- Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Arrange pineapple rings and maraschino cherries at the bottom of the pan before pouring the batter in, then invert the cake after baking for a beautiful presentation.
- Nut-Free Version: Omit the nuts if you prefer a simpler, nut-free cake, or if you have a nut allergy.
- Lighter Version: Reduce the sugar in the cake by half for a less sweet version, or use a sugar substitute to lower the calorie content.
Health Benefits and Notes
While this cake is an indulgent treat, it also offers some nutritional benefits:
- Pineapple: Rich in vitamin C and manganese, pineapple is a good source of antioxidants that support immune health and digestion.
- Customization: You can make this recipe slightly healthier by reducing the sugar or using whole wheat flour for added fiber.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the cake a day ahead. Store it covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator. The flavors tend to meld and improve as it sits.
Q: How should I store the leftovers?
A: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but you’ll need to crush it and ensure it has enough juice (about 1 cup) to keep the cake moist. You may need to add a little extra liquid if the pineapple is too dry.
Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the other ingredients, like the baking soda, are also gluten-free.
Q: What if I don’t have cream cheese for the frosting?
A: If you don’t have cream cheese, you can make a simple buttercream frosting with butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and a little milk or cream.
Conclusion
The Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a simple yet decadent dessert that transports you to the tropics with every bite. The combination of moist pineapple cake, creamy frosting, and coconut garnish makes it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering, a special celebration, or just because, this cake is sure to impress with its delicious flavor and easy preparation. Enjoy the taste of paradise in your own kitchen with this delightful and versatile recipe!