Tropical Pineapple Cake Recipe (Made from Scratch)

Tropical Pineapple Cake Recipe (Made from Scratch)
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Imagine biting into a slice of paradise. That’s what this pineapple cake recipe offers. It’s full of tropical flavors and has a moist, tender crumb. This homemade cake turns a simple dessert into a special treat.

Whether you want to impress guests or treat yourself, this recipe is perfect. It takes you on a taste journey to a sunny beach.

This pineapple cake recipe is made with love and fresh ingredients. It’s more than a dessert. It’s a celebration of flavor and texture that you’ll love making again and again.

Key Takeaways

  • Easy-to-follow homemade pineapple cake recipe
  • Perfect for special occasions and everyday treats
  • Packed with authentic tropical flavors
  • Simple ingredients, spectacular results
  • Moist and delicious cake that serves 12
  • Minimal prep time of just 10 minutes
  • Versatile dessert that’s sure to impress

Why This Homemade Pineapple Cake Will Become Your Favorite

Finding the perfect simple pineapple cake can change your baking. This fresh pineapple cake recipe is special. It’s perfect for any occasion.

Start a culinary journey that will make your desserts better. This cake is unique. It has qualities that make it stand out.

Perfect Texture and Moisture

This cake’s secret is its amazing moisture. Fresh pineapple makes it juicy. Every bite is tender and satisfying.

  • Crushed pineapple adds natural moisture
  • Creates a supremely soft cake texture
  • Ensures consistent delightful results

Tropical Flavor Combination

Get ready for a flavor adventure. Fresh pineapple and tropical notes make the cake special. It feels like a sunny paradise with each slice.

IngredientFlavor Impact
Fresh PineappleTangy sweetness
CoconutTropical undertones
Vanilla ExtractSmooth background note

Make-Ahead Friendly

Busy bakers, rejoice! This cake is easy to prepare ahead. You can make the layers early. It’s great for planning without losing freshness or flavor.

  • Can be stored in the fridger for up to 3 days
  • Freezes beautifully for up to 2 months
  • Ideal for advanced meal preparation

This cake is moist, has a tropical taste, and is easy to prepare. It’s sure to be a favorite in your baking.

Essential Ingredients for Your Tropical Cake

Making the perfect pineapple yellow cake begins with choosing top-notch ingredients. These ingredients bring out the bright tropical tastes. Your journey to a great dessert starts with knowing the key parts that make this cake stand out.

Pineapple Cake Ingredients

For your pineapple cake mix recipes, you’ll need these key ingredients:

  • Cake Base Ingredients:
    • 3 ¾ cups cake flour
    • 2 ¼ cups granulated sugar
    • 1 ⅛ cups unsalted butter
    • 6 egg whites
    • ¾ cup sour cream
  • Tropical Flavor Enhancers:
    • 1 ⅛ cups coconut milk
    • 1 ½ cups fresh pineapple chunks
    • 1 ½ cups shredded coconut

When picking your ingredients, focus on the pineapple. Fresh pineapple chunks give your cake a real, bright flavor. This is better than canned pineapple. The mix of fresh fruit, coconut milk, and shredded coconut makes your cake taste like a tropical paradise.

Pro Tip: Always use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smoother, more consistent cake batter.

This cake has about 392 calories per serving. It has 61g of carbs and 15g of fat. It’s a balanced treat that captures the tropical baking spirit. It offers a wonderful dessert experience.

Pineapple Cake Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the perfect simple pineapple cake needs attention to detail. Your homemade cake will turn basic ingredients into a tropical delight. Follow these steps for baking success.

Preparing the Cake Batter

First, gather your ingredients for this tasty pineapple cake. You’ll need:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 2 large eggs (separated)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 8 ounces fresh pineapple

Baking Tips and Techniques

When mixing the batter, separate egg whites and yolks. Beat the yolks into the mix, then fold in the egg whites gently. This keeps your cake fluffy and moist.

IngredientMeasurementPurpose
Unsalted Butter12 tablespoonsAdds richness
Lime Zest2 teaspoonsEnhances flavor
Baking Temperature350°FGolden brown finish

Creating the Perfect Coconut Pecan Topping

The topping makes your pineapple cake truly special. Mix butter, evaporated milk, sugar, pecans, and coconut until it’s rich and golden. Spread it over the cooled cake for extra flavor.

The result is a mouthwatering tropical treat for 8 people, with about 429 calories per slice. Your homemade pineapple cake will be a family favorite!

How to Make the Creamy Pineapple Frosting

Making the perfect pineapple cake frosting is quick, just 5 minutes. Your cake needs a topping that’s both creamy and full of tropical flavors.

Creamy Pineapple Frosting Recipe

To make a delicious cream cheese frosting, you’ll need a few ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon pineapple extract
  • 2 teaspoons pineapple juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)

Here’s how to make your frosting:

  1. Beat softened butter and cream cheese until smooth
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar
  3. Mix in pineapple extract and juice
  4. Add salt to balance sweetness
  5. Beat until light and fluffy

Pro tip: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the smoothest consistency.

“The secret to perfect frosting is patience and precise mixing” – Pastry Chef

Your frosting will cover a 2-layer 8-inch cake or 12 cupcakes. It has only 253 calories per serving, making it a guilt-free treat.

Storing it is easy: keep it at room temperature for a day or refrigerate in an airtight container. 

Storage Tips and Serving Suggestions

Your pineapple yellow cake is a treat that deserves the right care. Storing it correctly keeps its amazing taste and texture. This way, you can enjoy every bite for days.

Refrigeration Guidelines

Keep your homemade pineapple cake in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh:

  • Cover the cake with plastic wrap 
  • Store in an airtight container
  • Place in the refrigerator’s main compartment
  • Keep away from strong-smelling foods

Freezing Instructions

Freezing is a great way to keep your pineapple yellow cake longer. Here’s how:

  1. Allow the cake to cool completely
  2. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap
  3. Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container
  4. Freeze for up to 1 month

Best Serving Practices

For the best taste, follow these serving tips:

  • Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before serving
  • Let cake reach room temperature for optimal flavor
  • Garnish with fresh pineapple chunks or whipped cream
  • Serve on a chilled dessert plate for an elegant touch

By following these tips your pineapple cake be irresistible every time.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Make your simple pineapple cake even better with creative twists. These changes keep the tropical flavor while adding new surprises. You can adjust this dessert to fit your taste and dietary needs.

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use almond or coconut flour instead of regular flour for a gluten-free cake
  • Vegan Adaptation: Replace eggs with flax eggs and choose plant-based butter for a vegan version
  • Nut Enhancements: Add chopped macadamia or pecans for extra crunch and taste
  • Tropical Fruit Fusion: Mix in diced mango or passion fruit for a richer flavor

Baking is all about trying new things. You can turn this recipe into cupcakes by baking them for 20-25 minutes. Or, use a sheet pan for easier serving. The possibilities are endless.

Want to cut down on sugar? Try using less sugar or natural sweeteners like stevia. Each change keeps the tropical flavor of your pineapple cake fresh and exciting for everyone.

Conclusion

Your journey with this fresh pineapple cake recipe is more than just baking. It’s about creating a delicious tradition. From the first mix to the last slice, you’ll see why it’s loved since 1925.

This pineapple cake recipe is perfect for every home baker. It’s great for family gatherings or weekend treats. Its rich flavors and moist texture will wow everyone. You can make it in just over an hour, serving up to 10 people.

Baking is an art of exploration. Feel free to try gluten-free flour or plant-based substitutes. Each time you bake, you’ll get better and appreciate homemade desserts more.

Start your baking adventure today. Share your delicious creations with friends and family. Enjoy the joy of a perfectly crafted tropical dessert that brings smiles and sweet memories.

FAQ

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh pineapple in this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned pineapple. But fresh pineapple tastes better and feels softer. If using canned, drain it well and dry it to avoid too much moisture. Fresh pineapple adds a brighter taste and sweetness that makes the dessert even more tropical.

How can I make this pineapple cake gluten-free?

For a gluten-free cake, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum or add 1 teaspoon of it per cup of flour. This helps the cake’s texture. Also, check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How long will this pineapple cake stay fresh?

Your pineapple cake will last 3-5 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or use a cake carrier to keep it moist. If you’ve added frosting, refrigeration is key to keep it creamy.

Can I freeze this pineapple cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers or the whole cake for 2-3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

What can I substitute if I don’t like coconut?

If coconut isn’t your thing, you can skip it or use chopped nuts like almonds or pecans. You could also add toasted macadamia nuts or keep the topping simple. The cake will still be delicious and tropical.

How can I make this cake more moist?

For a moist cake, don’t overbake and use fresh, juicy pineapple. Brush the layers with a sugar and water syrup before frosting. Using sour cream or buttermilk in the batter also helps keep it moist.

Can I make this recipe as cupcakes?

Yes, this recipe is great as cupcakes! Bake them for 18-22 minutes, checking with a toothpick. They bake faster than a full cake, so watch them closely. They’re perfect for parties or individual treats.

Tropical Pineapple Cake Recipe

Tropical Pineapple Cake Recipe

Recipe by Chef AmandaCourse: Breakfast
Servings

8-12

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories

390

kcal

Ingredients

  • For the Cake:
  • 3¾ cups cake flour

  • 2¼ cups granulated sugar

  • 1⅛ cups unsalted butter

  • 6 egg whites

  • ¾ cup sour cream

  • 1⅛ cups coconut milk

  • 1½ cups fresh pineapple chunks

  • 1½ cups shredded coconut

  • 2 teaspoons baking powder

  • ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt

  • 2 teaspoons lime zest

  • ½ cup brown sugar

  • For the Frosting:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

  • 3 cups powdered sugar

  • ½ teaspoon pineapple extract

  • 2 teaspoons pineapple juice

  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

Directions

  • Cake Preparation:
  • Preheat oven to 350°F
  • Separate egg whites and yolks
  • Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl
  • Beat butter until creamy
  • Gradually add both granulated and brown sugars
  • Beat in egg yolks
  • Fold in egg whites gently
  • Add fresh pineapple chunks
  • Mix until well combined
  • For the Frosting:
  • Beat softened butter and cream cheese until smooth
  • Gradually add powdered sugar
  • Mix in pineapple extract and juice
  • Add salt to balance sweetness
  • Beat until light and fluffy

Notes

  • Pro Tips:
    Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing
    Fresh pineapple is preferred over canned for better flavor
    Don’t overbake to maintain moisture
    Let cake come to room temperature 30 minutes before serving
    For extra moisture, brush layers with sugar-water syrup before frosting