If you’re dreaming of a tropical treat that bursts with sunshine in every bite, this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a moist, tender cake infused with juicy crushed pineapple and a hint of vanilla, finished with a dreamy cream cheese frosting that perfectly balances sweet and tangy. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to brighten an ordinary day, this cake brings a little island joy right to your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe keeps things simple with ingredients you likely have on hand, each chosen to contribute rich flavors, perfect texture, and that tropical touch you love. Let’s take a look at the essentials!
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake’s soft, fluffy crumb.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with cake moisture.
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients and give structure.
- Baking soda: The leavening agent that helps the cake rise perfectly.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall taste.
- Crushed pineapple (undrained): Infuses the cake with tropical moisture and tang.
- Chopped nuts (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Unsalted butter (softened): For the luscious cream cheese frosting base.
- Cream cheese (softened): Creates the creamy, tangy frosting that complements the cake.
- Confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.
- Coconut or additional nuts (optional): A decorative touch that adds texture and tropical flair.
How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan so your cake won’t stick, ensuring you get those perfect edges when it’s time to serve.
Step 2: Mix Your Cake Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, salt, and most importantly, the crushed pineapple with its juice. This wet pineapple gives the cake incredible moisture and that tropical zing while mixing adds some physical magic as the batter comes together.
Step 3: Fold In Nuts If Using
If you like a bit of crunch and extra flavor, gently fold in your chopped nuts now. Walnuts or macadamia nuts work beautifully, but this step is totally optional depending on your preference.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour your batter evenly into the prepared pan and pop it in the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean — that’s the perfect sign your cake is fully cooked through but still moist.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake is baking, whip up the frosting by beating softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. Slowly add in the confectioners’ sugar, mixing until your frosting is silky and spreadable.
Step 6: Frost the Warm Cake
As soon as your cake comes out of the oven but while it’s still warm, spread a generous layer of that dreamy cream cheese frosting over the top. The warmth helps the frosting melt slightly into the cake, creating an irresistibly luscious finish.
Step 7: Garnish and Cool Before Slicing
Sprinkle coconut flakes or extra nuts on top for added texture and tropical vibes, then let the cake cool completely before slicing. Cooling allows the cake to set perfectly and makes serving easier.
How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Coconut flakes and toasted nuts are classic choices that add both flavor and a beautiful presentation. For a fresh twist, try adding a few pineapple leaves or a light dusting of cinnamon to elevate that island feel even more.
Side Dishes
This cake shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the tang of the pineapple. Serve alongside tropical fruit salads or a cup of rich coffee for a deliciously complete snack or dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, cut the cake into small square bites and place on a pretty platter with cocktail picks, making it an easy finger food. You can also try layering the cake with pineapple slices and frosting in a trifle dish for a show-stopping dessert centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hawaiian pineapple cake keeps well covered at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, it’s best to store it in the fridge to prevent the frosting from softening too much.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake either frosted or unfrosted. Wrap slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating
If you prefer your cake slightly warmed, gently heat individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds. Be careful not to heat too long or the frosting may melt excessively. This gives a cozy, just-baked feel to every bite.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned crushed pineapple?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple chopped finely will work well but remember to include any juice for moisture. Using fresh will give a brighter, fruitier flavor but canned works perfectly for convenience and consistency.
What type of nuts are best for this cake?
Walnuts and macadamia nuts are traditional favorites because they complement the pineapple’s sweetness with their rich, buttery taste. Pecans can also be a great choice if that’s what you have on hand.
Is this cake gluten-free?
As written, this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe uses all-purpose flour which contains gluten. However, you can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend designed for cakes to make a gluten-free version that’s just as delicious.
Can I make this cake vegan?
To create a vegan version, substitute eggs with flaxseed eggs or another egg replacer, and use dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different but still tasty!
How long does this cake stay fresh?
When stored properly in the fridge, the cake stays fresh for about 4 to 5 days. For the best flavor and moisture, enjoy it within the first couple of days after baking.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe is a tropical hug in dessert form—moist, flavorful, and wonderfully easy to make. Whether you’re celebrating a sunny day or just craving something sweet and special, you’re in for a joyful baking experience and even more joyful eating. So grab your ingredients, get mixing, and bring a piece of the islands to your table today!
Print
Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert combining the sweetness of crushed pineapple with a tender crumb and a rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for gatherings and celebrations, this easy-to-make cake delivers a tropical twist that delights with every bite.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple in juice (undrained)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Frosting Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- Coconut or additional nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and the undrained crushed pineapple. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Add Nuts (Optional): Gently fold in the chopped nuts if you choose to include them. This adds a nice texture to the cake.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Place it in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Prepare Frosting: While the cake is baking, beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and mix until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Frost the Cake: When the cake is out of the oven and still warm, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. You can garnish with shredded coconut or additional nuts for a decorative touch.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts. Serve and enjoy this moist, tropical treat.
Notes
- If you prefer a nut-free cake, simply omit the nuts from the recipe.
- Use fresh cream cheese and butter at room temperature for the smoothest frosting texture.
- For a more tropical flavor, garnish with toasted coconut flakes.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to maintain a tender crumb.
- This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, tightly covered.
