Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe – A Slice of Paradise in Every Bite

There’s something magical about the smell of a cake baking in the oven. As I whipped up this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake, the sweet aroma of pineapple and vanilla began to fill the kitchen, reminiscent of lazy summer days spent sipping iced tea and enjoying sunshine-laden barbecues with family. Each bite of this cake is like a mini vacation, transporting you to a warm beach with soft sand beneath your toes. Trust me when I say that this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake will become a cherished recipe in your home, just as it has in mine.

Why You’ll Love It

• Quick and easy to make
• Comforting homemade flavor
• Made with simple ingredients
• Great for any occasion
• Always a crowd-pleaser

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
  (Perfectly fluffy texture when sifted!)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
  (Adds that sweet loveliness you crave.)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
  (Helps the cake rise beautifully.)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
  (Balances the sweetness for better flavor.)
• 2 large eggs
  (Brings it all together.)
• 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple with juice
  (The star ingredient that keeps the cake moist.)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  (A dash of warmth!)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  (Add a lovely crunch!)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  (Makes the frosting super creamy.)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  (Ensures a rich taste.)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
  (For that sweet, fluffy frosting.)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
  (More deliciousness!)
• Shredded coconut or chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
  (A touch of tropical flair!)

How to Make It

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. You’ll want that cake to slide right out!

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Breathe in that delightful scent — the flour and sugar coming together is just heavenly.

3. Next, add the eggs, crushed pineapple with juice, and vanilla extract. Mix gently by hand until everything is well combined. No need for mixers here; feel the textures come together under your hands!

4. If you love some crunch, fold in the chopped nuts at this stage. They add a delightful surprise bite.

5. Carefully pour the batter into the prepared pan, and pop it into the oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The moment you see that golden top and smell that warm, sweet scent filling your kitchen, you’ll know it’s almost ready. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted in the center. Once done, let the cake cool completely before frosting.

6. For the frosting, in a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and creamy. The texture should be like whipped clouds!

7. Slowly add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until it’s fluffy. This is the moment when you can’t resist dipping your finger in — it’s just that good!

8. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. For a finishing touch, sprinkle with shredded coconut or chopped nuts if desired. Pop the cake in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to let those flavors meld together.

Kitchen Tips

• Time-saving Tip: You can prepare the cake a day in advance. It often tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to mingle.
• Common Mistake Fix: If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil during baking.
• Flavor Variation: Add a little grated lemon zest to the batter for a fresh twist that brightens things up!

Serving Ideas

This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is perfect for any gathering. Imagine it served at a family dinner, where everyone gathers around the table to share stories and laughter. It’s equally lovely for a cozy brunch with friends or as a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday table. Consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream on the side or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that extra special touch.

Storing & Leftovers

• To store, cover your cake with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 5 days.
• If you’re thinking about leftovers, you’ll be happy to know that this cake freezes beautifully. Just wrap it tightly in foil and pop it in the freezer.
• A fun way to enjoy leftovers? Turn them into mini cake sandwiches! Just spread a bit of frosting between two pieces for a delightful treat!

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Definitely! It often tastes even better the next day. The flavors really come together beautifully!

Q: Can I swap any ingredients?
A: Of course! You can use any nuts you prefer or skip them entirely. This recipe is very forgiving.

Q: What’s the best way to serve it?
A: Fresh from the pan, while it’s still warm and aromatic, is ideal. A slice with a glass of cold milk is simply perfection.

Q: How do I know it’s perfectly cooked?
A: Look for golden edges and that delicious, fragrant smell wafting through your kitchen — that’s your sign it’s done!

Final Thoughts

Baking this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is more than just creating a dessert; it’s a way to create memories and share sweetness with those you love. Every bite is a reminder of carefree moments and warmer days, making it a special addition to any table. So, gather your ingredients, roll up those sleeves, and let your kitchen fill with the joyous aroma of this delightful cake. I can’t wait for you to enjoy this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake just as much as I do!

Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

A delightful Hawaiian Pineapple Cake that captures the essence of summer with its sweet pineapple flavor and creamy frosting.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Hawaiian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Cake Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour Perfectly fluffy texture when sifted!
• 2 cups granulated sugar Adds that sweet loveliness you crave.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda Helps the cake rise beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness for better flavor.
• 2 large eggs Brings it all together.
• 1 20 oz can crushed pineapple with juice The star ingredient that keeps the cake moist.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract A dash of warmth!
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts Add a lovely crunch! (optional)

Frosting Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened Makes the frosting super creamy.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensures a rich taste.
• 2 cups powdered sugar For that sweet, fluffy frosting.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting) More deliciousness!

Garnish

• Shredded coconut or chopped nuts For garnish (optional). A touch of tropical flair!

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, crushed pineapple with juice, and vanilla extract. Mix gently by hand until well combined.
4. Fold in the chopped nuts if you love some crunch.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, and bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
6. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted in the center. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.

Frosting

1. Beat together the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Slowly add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy.
3. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
4. Sprinkle with shredded coconut or chopped nuts if desired. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can prepare the cake a day in advance for better flavor. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil during baking. Consider adding grated lemon zest for a fresh twist. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra delight.