Pineapple Cake Recipe: Moist, Fluffy & Delicious

Who doesn’t love a cake that’s bursting with tropical flavors, easy to make, and incredibly moist? A homemade pineapple cake recipe is a delightful dessert that combines the sweet, tangy flavor of pineapple with a soft, tender crumb. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a potluck, or just a simple treat for yourself, this guide will help you create the perfect pineapple cake recipe from scratch.

But what makes pineapple such a great ingredient for cakes? It’s not just about the flavor—pineapple also adds natural sweetness and moisture, which keeps cakes from drying out. Plus, the slight acidity in pineapple helps tenderize the cake, making every bite melt in your mouth.

If you love baking and want to understand the science behind creating the perfect cake, check out this comprehensive guide on baking science. It explains how different ingredients interact to achieve the perfect texture and flavor balance in baked goods.

A Brief History of Pineapple in Baking

Pineapple has been a beloved ingredient in baking for decades, adding a naturally sweet, tangy, and juicy flavor to a variety of desserts. Its versatility allows it to be used in everything from moist cakes and pastries to tarts and muffins. One of the most iconic pineapple-based desserts is the pineapple upside-down cake, which gained immense popularity in the 1950s when canned pineapple became a household staple. This classic cake features caramelized pineapple rings and cherries layered at the bottom of the pan, which are revealed in all their golden glory when the cake is flipped after baking.

Beyond American traditions, pineapple plays a significant role in global baking as well. The Taiwanese pineapple cake (or feng li su) is a well-known pastry with a buttery, crumbly crust and a dense, sweet pineapple jam filling. These small, square-shaped treats are commonly gifted during celebrations such as the Lunar New Year and weddings, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.

This particular recipe is a classic American-style pineapple cake, known for its light, fluffy texture and bursts of tropical flavor. Crushed pineapple is folded into the batter, ensuring each bite is moist and fruity. The cake is then topped with a luscious pineapple-infused frosting, adding an extra layer of sweetness and richness. Whether served as a dessert for birthdays, an afternoon tea-time treat, or simply as a way to indulge in a tropical-flavored delight, this pineapple cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Its refreshing taste and delicate texture make it perfect for warm-weather gatherings or any occasion when you crave something sweet, vibrant, and nostalgic.

Classic American-Style Pineapple Cake Recipe

Ingredient for the Pineapple Cake Recipe

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure and stability.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise and stay fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – Reacts with the acidity in the pineapple to create lightness.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with tenderness.
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar – Adds moisture and a slight caramel-like depth.
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened – Provides richness and structure.
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil – Ensures a moist and tender crumb.
• 3 large eggs – Adds structure and contributes to a light texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor.
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk – Keeps the cake tender and balances sweetness.
• 1 can (20 oz / 565g) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve ¼ cup of juice for frosting) – Adds natural pineapple flavor and moisture.

For the Pineapple-Infused Frosting:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened – Creates a creamy, tangy base.
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened – Adds smoothness and richness.
• 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• ¼ cup (60ml) reserved pineapple juice – Adds pineapple flavor and a slight tang.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Complements the pineapple’s natural sweetness.

Optional Garnishes:

• Toasted coconut flakes – Adds crunch and tropical flair.
• Pineapple slices or chunks – For decoration and extra fruitiness.
• Maraschino cherries – A classic topping for a pop of color.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking pan or two 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients – In a medium bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter, sugars, and oil – In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). Mix in the oil for added moisture.
4. Add the eggs and vanilla – Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Add the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate adding buttermilk and dry ingredients – Mix in half of the dry ingredients, followed by half of the buttermilk. Repeat, mixing just until combined.
6. Fold in the crushed pineapple – Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple to ensure an even distribution of fruit without overmixing.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) – Smooth out the top with a spatula.
8. Bake for 30–35 minutes – Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
9. Cool completely – Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Ensure it is completely cool before frosting.

Step 3: Make the Pineapple-Infused Frosting

10. Beat the cream cheese and butter – In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
11. Add the powdered sugar gradually – Mix in the powdered sugar 1 cup at a time until fully incorporated.
12. Pour in the pineapple juice and vanilla extract – Beat until the frosting is creamy and spreadable. If it’s too thick, add a teaspoon of additional pineapple juice.

Step 4: Assemble and Garnish

13. Frost the cooled cake – Spread the pineapple-infused frosting evenly over the cake.
14. Add toppings (optional) – Sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes, arrange pineapple slices, or add maraschino cherries for extra decoration.
15. Chill before serving – Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
• Freezing: The unfrosted cake layers can be wrapped in plastic wrap and frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting.

You can also get creative with different pineapple cake recipe variations:

• Pineapple Upside-Down Cake – A retro classic with caramelized pineapple slices.
• Pineapple Coconut Cake – Add shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
• Gluten-Free Pineapple Cake Recipe – Use almond flour for a nutty flavor.
• Pineapple Crumble Cake – Inspired by this peach crumble recipe.

FAQs About Pineapple Cake Recipe

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can! Just make sure to finely chop or crush the fresh pineapple and drain any excess liquid to avoid making the cake too soggy. If the pineapple is very tart, you may also want to add a little extra sugar to balance the flavor.

Q: What’s the best frosting for pineapple cake?
A: A pineapple-infused whipped cream frosting or cream cheese frosting works best to complement the cake’s tropical flavors. You can also try a coconut buttercream for an extra layer of richness.

Q: Can I make a pineapple cake reicpe with a cake mix?
A: Yes! Using a yellow or white cake mix as a base can save time while still delivering great flavor. For an easy hack, substitute the liquid ingredients with pineapple juice for extra moisture. If you love fruit-based cake mixes, check out this banana bread with cake mix guide!

Q: How do I prevent my pineapple cake from being too dense?
A: To keep your cake light and fluffy, make sure to:
✔ Use room-temperature ingredients.
✔ Properly cream the butter and sugar.
✔ Avoid overmixing once the flour is added.
✔ Drain excess liquid from the pineapple.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake (without frosting) for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I add coconut or nuts to the batter?
A: Yes! To add texture and enhance the tropical flavors, try mixing in:
🥥 ½ cup shredded coconut
🥜 ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Q: What’s a good substitute for buttermilk ?
A: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

This easy pineapple cake recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! With its sweet tropical flavors, ultra-moist texture, and endless variations, it’s a must-try dessert.

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