If you have ever dreamed of bringing a tropical breeze straight into your kitchen, this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe is your golden ticket. Bursting with the natural sweetness of crushed pineapple and the creamy richness of a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake perfectly balances moist, tender crumbs with a hint of tropical zest. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or simply craving a sweet escape, this recipe is as heartwarming as a Hawaiian sunset, making each bite a delightful island adventure.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe lies in its simple, yet flavorful ingredients. Each element plays a special role—the flour and eggs create the perfect tender texture, the pineapple adds juicy sweetness and moisture, and the cream cheese frosting brings that creamy tang everyone loves.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cake, giving it structure and tenderness.
- 2 cups sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps achieve a moist crumb.
- 2 large eggs: Binds everything together while adding richness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent that helps the cake rise beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances the other flavors.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple in juice (undrained): The star ingredient giving natural tropical moisture and sweetness.
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional): Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor, though you can skip it if you prefer.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and creaminess in the frosting.
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened: Creates that dreamy, tangy frosting that pairs perfectly with the pineapple cake.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Elevates the cream cheese flavor with a sweet, aromatic note.
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for smooth spreadability.
- Coconut or additional nuts for garnish (optional): Adds a final touch of tropical flair and texture.
How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan liberally to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal. This sets the stage for even baking and a gorgeous golden crust.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, salt, and the entire can of crushed pineapple with its juice. Mix everything thoroughly until smooth—the juice from the pineapple will infuse the batter with both moisture and flavor, ensuring a wonderfully tender cake every time.
Step 3: Add Nuts for Crunch (If Using)
If you love a bit of texture, gently fold in the chopped nuts. They contrast the moist cake with a delightful crunch, adding layers of flavor that elevate this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe to the next level.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour your prepared batter into the greased pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Pop it into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—golden edges and aromatic warmth will greet you upon opening the oven door.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake is baking, whip up the heavenly frosting. Beat the softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract together until velvety smooth. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, beating until the frosting is fluffy and perfectly spreadable—the ideal accompaniment to the tropical sponge you just baked.
Step 6: Frost the Warm Cake
As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the warm surface. Spreading while warm allows the frosting to melt slightly into the cake, creating a deliciously gooey and moist top layer that’s hard to resist.
Step 7: Garnish and Cool
For a finishing touch, sprinkle coconut flakes or additional nuts on top, if you like. Let the cake cool completely before slicing into those perfect squares—this rest time helps everything set and makes serving cleaner and easier.
How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding toasted coconut flakes or extra chopped nuts as garnishes not only makes your cake look stunning but also adds a lovely texture contrast. The coconut gives a tropical vibe, perfectly complementing the sweet pineapple and tangy frosting.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for those extra special occasions. A fresh fruit salad featuring tropical fruits like mango and papaya can further enhance the island-inspired flavors on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the cake into small squares and serve on a colorful platter, or cut into bite-sized pieces for a lovely dessert buffet. For a fun twist, try layering the pineapple cake with whipped cream and fruit in clear glasses for an elegant trifle presentation your guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hawaiian Pineapple Cake should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. It will stay delicious and moist for up to 4 days, making it perfect for enjoying throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked cake without frosting by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost as directed. Freezing helps preserve the tropical flavor and texture for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Since this cake is best served chilled or at room temperature, reheating is generally not necessary. However, if you prefer it slightly warm, microwave a slice for about 10-15 seconds—just enough to take the chill off without melting the frosting completely.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh crushed pineapple can be a great substitute, just make sure to drain excess juice if it’s very watery to keep the batter from becoming too soggy.
Is it necessary to include nuts in the recipe?
No, nuts are optional and included for texture and flavor. If you have allergies or prefer a smoother cake, feel free to leave them out without compromising the flavor.
Can this cake be made gluten-free?
Yes, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Just be mindful of the brand and blend for best results, as texture might vary slightly.
How long should I let the cake cool before frosting?
Frost the cake while it is still warm to allow the frosting to melt slightly into the surface, but not too hot that it melts away entirely. After frosting, let it cool completely before slicing.
What can I use instead of cream cheese for the frosting?
You can substitute with mascarpone cheese or a butter-only frosting for a different but still creamy texture. Keep in mind this will change the flavor slightly as cream cheese adds a tangy note.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly joyful about making and sharing this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe. It’s not just a cake, but a little slice of paradise that brightens any gathering or quiet moment with its tropical flavors and comforting sweetness. Once you try it, this cake will quickly become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection. So grab those simple ingredients, whip up a batch, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a taste of sunny Hawaii whenever the mood strikes!
Print
Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert combining crushed pineapple, a tender cake base, and a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for gatherings and celebrations, it offers a tropical twist with optional nuts and coconut garnishes for added texture and taste.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 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)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Frosting Ingredients
- 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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, salt, and crushed pineapple with its juice. Stir the mixture well until everything is fully incorporated.
- Add Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped nuts if you are using them, to evenly distribute throughout the batter without over-mixing.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the greased baking pan and bake for 35-40 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.
- Prepare Frosting: While the cake bakes, beat the softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, beating continuously until fully combined and fluffy.
- Frost the Cake: When the cake is warm but not hot, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Garnish with coconut flakes or additional nuts if desired for extra texture and flavor.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving to let the frosting set and the flavors meld.
Notes
- The cake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts from the batter and garnish.
- You can substitute crushed pineapple with crushed pineapple tidbits if preferred for more texture.
- Make sure the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for easy and smooth frosting preparation.
- This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tropical fruit punch.
