Description
This tropical-inspired cake is a delightful blend of sweet pineapple, fluffy cake layers, and a creamy frosting that melts in your mouth. Perfect for summer gatherings or whenever you crave a taste of paradise, this dessert is easy to make and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (with juice)
- ½ cup unsweetened pineapple juice
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup crushed pineapple (drained)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh pineapple slices
- Maraschino cherries
- Toasted coconut flakes
Instructions
Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine the crushed pineapple (with juice), pineapple juice, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Make the Frosting:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and drained crushed pineapple until fully incorporated.
3. Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
- Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.
- Garnish with fresh pineapple slices, maraschino cherries, or toasted coconut flakes, if desired.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice and serve at room temperature. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
- This cake is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Toasting the coconut flakes for garnish adds a nutty flavor and enhances the tropical vibe.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Hawaiian pineapple cake, tropical dessert, pineapple cream cheese frosting, easy cake recipe, summer dessert