Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe

Looking for a tropical treat that brings sunshine to your kitchen, even on the rainiest days? Well, you’ve just found it! This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is like a little slice of paradise, packed with sweet, juicy pineapple and topped with a buttery, coconutty glaze. Imagine a cake so moist it practically melts in your mouth, with the tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut dancing in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, or just craving a little something sweet, this cake will transport you straight to the islands. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

Tropical Flavors:

Pineapple and coconut come together in this cake to give it a sweet, exotic flair. It’s a perfect balance of tropical flavors that’s sure to brighten up your day.

Moist and Delicious:

This cake is incredibly moist, thanks to the pineapple. The natural juices soak into the batter, keeping it soft and delicious every time.

Easy to Make:

No complicated steps or special techniques here! You just need a few simple ingredients, and you’ll have a show-stopping cake in no time.

Versatile:

It’s great for any occasion—birthday parties, potlucks, family gatherings, or just when you’re craving something indulgent. The best part? You can serve it as is, or dress it up with some whipped cream or ice cream for a truly indulgent dessert.

Crowd-Pleasing:

This cake is a guaranteed hit! The tropical flavors and light texture make it appealing to a wide range of tastes, and it’s a fantastic way to get people talking about your baking skills.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• Pineapple: You’ll need crushed pineapple, either fresh or canned. The juices from the pineapple are what keep this cake extra moist.
• Flour: All-purpose flour makes the cake base light and fluffy.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and gives it a nice, airy texture.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps it achieve that beautiful golden color.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the ingredients together.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps keep the cake moist.
• Vanilla Extract: For a hint of flavor that complements the tropical pineapple.
• Salt: Just a pinch to enhance the other flavors.

For the Topping:

• Coconut: Sweetened shredded coconut is perfect for the topping, adding that distinct tropical texture and flavor.
• Butter: This will create a smooth, rich topping that helps the coconut stick.
• Sugar: A little sugar to sweeten the topping and give it a nice golden-brown finish.
• Pineapple Juice: A splash of pineapple juice in the topping enhances the flavor and keeps it from being too dry.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Prepare the Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will ensure your cake comes out easily after baking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This is an important step for a light cake texture!
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine with Pineapple: Drain the pineapple (save the juice for the topping!) and stir it into the batter. The pineapple will add moisture and flavor, so don’t skip this step!
6. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
7. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth it out evenly. Bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Topping:

1. Make the Coconut Topping: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the sugar, pineapple juice, and shredded coconut. Stir until everything is well combined and the coconut is slightly toasted, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Top the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, spread the coconut mixture evenly over the top. The sweet coconut topping will add that beautiful tropical flair to your cake.
3. Let it Set: Allow the topping to set for a few minutes before slicing the cake. The coconut topping will firm up a little, creating a lovely texture.

Serve and Enjoy:

Slice up this beauty and serve it as is, or top it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. This cake is perfect for any occasion that calls for a little sunshine!

How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

This cake can be served in a variety of ways to make it even more delightful:

With Whipped Cream:

A dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice is always a good idea! It adds a creamy contrast to the tropical cake.

Vanilla Ice Cream:

For a truly indulgent dessert, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm, soft cake.

Fresh Fruit:

Fresh tropical fruit, like mango or kiwi, makes a wonderful garnish for a burst of color and extra flavor.

Coffee or Tea:

Enjoy a slice of cake with your favorite hot drink—it’s a perfect pairing for your afternoon tea or coffee.

Additional Tips

Pineapple Variations:

You can experiment with different types of pineapple for unique flavors. Use fresh pineapple for a brighter, more natural taste or canned pineapple for convenience.

Add a Twist:

If you love a little extra flavor, try adding shredded carrots to the batter or a dash of cinnamon for a warm spice that pairs beautifully with the pineapple.

Make Ahead:

This cake actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

Want to make it in advance? This cake freezes really well! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 280
Total Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 120mg
Total Carbohydrates: 33g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 24g
Protein: 2g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

A1: Yes! Fresh pineapple will give the cake an even brighter, more natural flavor. Just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the batter.

Q2: Can I make this cake without coconut?

A2: Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of coconut, you can skip the topping or use chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy twist.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?

A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it to keep it fresh longer.

Q4: Can I freeze this cake?

A4: Yes! Wrap the cake in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.

Q5: Can I make this cake gluten-free?

A5: Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum to help with texture.

Q6: How can I make this cake healthier?

A6: You can reduce the sugar in the cake and topping, and use whole wheat flour for extra fiber. You can also substitute the butter with applesauce for a lighter version.

Q7: Can I add other fruits to the cake?

A7: Absolutely! You can add chopped mango, banana slices, or even diced strawberries for an extra fruity touch.

Q8: Can I make this cake in a different size pan?

A8: Yes, you can use an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch pan, but adjust the baking time as needed. The cake will be thicker and may take a bit longer to cook.

Q9: Can I frost the cake instead of using the coconut topping?

A9: Yes, you can frost it with cream cheese frosting or whipped cream for a different twist.

Q10: Is this cake suitable for a tropical-themed party?

A10: Absolutely! This cake is the perfect centerpiece for any tropical or Hawaiian-themed party. It’s colorful, fun, and packed with those tropical flavors everyone will love!

Conclusion

This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is everything you want in a tropical treat—moist, flavorful, and packed with sunshine in every bite. The sweet pineapple and coconut topping are a match made in heaven, and the best part? It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or just craving a slice of something sweet, this cake will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy your slice of paradise! 🌴🍍

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