Who doesn’t love a dessert that brings tropical vibes to your kitchen? Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a delightful treat with a moist, fluffy base, layered with sweet and tangy pineapple filling. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a festive holiday dinner, this cake is a crowd-pleaser!
What’s the best part? This recipe is super simple and doesn’t require you to be a professional baker. Ready to dive into the world of pineapple bliss? Let’s get started.
Ingredients Overview
You’ll need some pantry staples along with fresh or canned pineapple. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Flour: All-purpose flour works best for this recipe.
- Sugar: Both granulated sugar for the batter and brown sugar for the filling.
- Eggs: To give the cake its light and airy texture.
- Pineapple: Fresh or canned, but fresh offers more vibrant flavors.
- Butter: Unsalted butter enhances the rich flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: For a hint of sweetness.
- Baking Powder: To ensure the cake rises perfectly.
- Optional Ingredients: Coconut flakes, cherries, or whipped cream for garnish.
Equipment Needed
- A mixing bowl and whisk (or stand mixer).
- 9-inch round or square cake pan.
- Cooling rack.
- Saucepan for cooking the pineapple filling.
If you’re missing any of these, don’t worry! You can always improvise with what you have on hand.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your cake pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
- In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, and baking powder.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and melted butter, then stir in the vanilla.
- Slowly combine the wet and dry ingredients until smooth. Fold in small chunks of pineapple for extra flavor.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the greased pan. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
Making the Pineapple Filling
While the cake bakes, let’s make the star of the show—the pineapple filling.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups chopped pineapple.
- ½ cup sugar (adjust based on the sweetness of the fruit).
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch dissolved in ¼ cup water.
Directions:
- In a saucepan, cook pineapple and sugar over medium heat.
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the filling thickens. Set aside to cool.
Assembling the Cake
Once the cake and filling are cool, it’s time to assemble:
- Slice the cake horizontally into two layers.
- Spread a generous amount of pineapple filling on the bottom layer.
- Place the second layer on top and cover with more filling.
- Garnish with coconut flakes or cherries for a tropical twist.
Optional Add-Ons
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream makes every slice extra special.
- Toasted Coconut: Sprinkle toasted coconut for added texture.
- Maraschino Cherries: Top each slice with a cherry for visual appeal.
Baking Tips for Perfection
- Always use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it can make the cake dense.
- If using fresh pineapple, drain excess juice to avoid a soggy cake.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze the cake (without toppings) for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and add toppings before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a refreshing tropical drink like piña colada. It’s perfect for birthdays, summer parties, or a cozy family dessert.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 250 per slice.
- Carbs: 35g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 10g
For a healthier version, substitute half the sugar with a natural sweetener and use whole wheat flour.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a unique blend of tangy pineapple, moist cake, and tropical garnishes. It’s not just a dessert—it’s a vacation on a plate!
Now that you know how to make this heavenly Hawaiian Pineapple Cake, it’s time to wow your family and friends. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and make it your own.
FAQs
- Can I use other fruits instead of pineapple?
Absolutely! Mango or peaches work well as substitutes. - What is the best frosting for this cake?
Cream cheese frosting complements the tangy pineapple beautifully. - How do I prevent the cake from being soggy?
Drain the pineapple thoroughly and avoid over-soaking the cake layers. - Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. - Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Substitute eggs with a flaxseed meal and use a vegan butter alternative.
