Pineapple Cake
Pineapple Cake is a delightful dessert that brings a taste of sunshine to any occasion. This cake is beautifully moist and bursting with the tropical flavor of sweet pineapple. With its fluffy texture and rich taste, it’s a fantastic choice for birthdays, potlucks, or simply to enjoy at home with family and friends. Whether you serve it plain or topped with a dollop of whipped cream, every bite feels like a mini-vacation for your taste buds!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 260
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
Why Make This Pineapple Cake
Pineapple Cake is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to make! The combination of crushed pineapple and buttermilk creates a moist, flavorful cake that melts in your mouth. It’s a great way to use fresh or canned pineapple, allowing you to enjoy a taste of tropical goodness year-round. This cake not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also has a unique twist that sets it apart from traditional vanilla or chocolate cakes.
How to Make Pineapple Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Directions:
### Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. This helps ensure that your cake comes out easily after baking.
### Step 2: Mixing
In a mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and sugar together until fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cake a light and airy texture.
### Step 3: Adding Eggs and Flavor
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, which will add a lovely aroma and flavor to the cake.
### Step 4: Combining Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. This method helps prevent clumping and creates a smooth batter.
### Step 5: Folding in Pineapple and Nuts
Fold in the crushed pineapple and walnuts, if you’re using them. The pineapple adds moisture and flavor, while walnuts give a delightful crunch.
### Step 6: Baking
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top and smell heavenly as it bakes.
### Step 7: Cooling
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps set the structure of the cake while keeping it moist.
How to Serve Pineapple Cake
Pineapple Cake can be served in slices as is, or you can elevate it with a dusting of powdered sugar. Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavorful tropical profile. It also works wonderfully as a festive dessert during summer gatherings or family celebrations.
How to Store Pineapple Cake
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
Expert Tips for Perfect Pineapple Cake
- Draining the Pineapple: Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid excess moisture in your cake.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use eggs and butter at room temperature for better incorporation and smoother batter.
- Test for Doneness: Before removing the cake from the oven, do the toothpick test. It should come out clean for a perfectly baked cake.
- Add Some Zing: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of coconut extract.
- Glaze It: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and pineapple juice on top for a sweet finish.
Delicious Variations
- Caramel Pineapple Cake: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for added sweetness.
- Pineapple Coconut Cake: Add shredded coconut to the batter for a delightful texture and flavor.
- Chocolate Chip Pineapple Cake: Incorporate chocolate chips for a delicious contrast to the pineapple sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be used. Just make sure to chop it finely and drain any excess juice. -
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can make a simple substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. -
Is it necessary to add walnuts?
No, walnuts are optional. You can omit them or substitute them with pecans or chocolate chips if you prefer. -
How can I make this cake more decadent?
Consider adding a cream cheese frosting or serving it with whipped cream for indulgence. -
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
Conclusion
Pineapple Cake is a wonderful, simple dessert that’s perfect for any gathering or just a sweet treat at home. Its moistness and tropical flavor make it a standout choice that everyone will love. So grab your ingredients, and give this delightful recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy every delicious bite and the compliments that come your way!
Print
Pineapple Cake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dessert bursting with tropical pineapple flavor, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Cream the unsalted butter and sugar together until fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, then gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk.
- Fold in the crushed pineapple and walnuts, if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top; bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Draining the pineapple is important to avoid excess moisture. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
