Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe

Bright, sunny, and impossibly moist, this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is your golden ticket to a tropical daydream—no airfare required. Packed with juicy crushed pineapple and topped with a heavenly cream cheese frosting that’s kissed with pineapple juice, every bite is like a mini getaway. Whether you’re celebrating with friends, hosting a summer barbecue, or just need some vitamin “sea” (and dessert), you’ll adore how easy and irresistible this cake is. Welcome to the sweet side of the islands!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Hawaiian Pineapple Cake comes from simple, pantry-friendly staples that mingle perfectly to create something spectacular. Each ingredient plays a starring role in taste, texture, and that sunshiny, tropical look.

• All-purpose flour: The sturdy backbone of the cake, giving it its soft but structured crumb.
• Granulated sugar: A sweet boost that pairs deliciously with pineapple’s natural tang.
• Eggs: Essential for binding everything together and lending rich moisture.
• Baking soda: Helps your cake rise beautifully for that perfect, tender bite.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to both the cake and the frosting.
• Crushed pineapple (with juice): The showstopper—don’t drain! The juice keeps your cake extra moist and flavorful.
• Cream cheese: For a lush, tangy frosting that compliments the pineapple.
• Unsalted butter: Gives the frosting luxurious creaminess and a little indulgence.
• Powdered sugar: The secret to silky, sweet frosting with just the right texture.
• Pineapple juice (from the can): A fresh pop of pineapple flavor in your frosting.
• Fresh pineapple chunks or rings: For a beautiful, juicy garnish and a summery look.

How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Crank up that oven to 350°F (175°C) and get your two 9-inch cake pans ready with a hearty greasing and a sprinkle of flour. In a big bowl, stir together flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, vanilla, and the whole can of crushed pineapple—juice included. Don’t worry if the batter looks a little thick; the pineapple will keep everything soft and moist as it bakes.

Step 2: Bake the Cakes

Evenly divide your beautiful tropical batter between the prepared pans. Slide them into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick poked in the center comes out clean and crumb-free. The kitchen will smell like pure sunshine! Once done, let the cakes cool completely so the frosting won’t melt.

Step 3: Make the Pineapple Cream Cheese Frosting

With the cakes cooling off, grab your mixer and beat softened cream cheese and butter until they’re ultra-smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar so you end up with cloud-like fluffiness. Finish the frosting with a splash of vanilla and a couple tablespoons of that reserved pineapple juice for a distinct tropical flair.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Set the first cake layer on your favorite serving platter and slather it generously with the pineapple cream cheese frosting. For bonus juiciness, sprinkle on a layer of fresh pineapple chunks. Top with the second cake layer and frost the entire outer edge, making sure every bite will be dreamy.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

Finish your Hawaiian Pineapple Cake with a crown of pineapple rings or chunks. Chill for at least one hour—this lets all the flavors marry and makes slicing easier. Ready your forks and serve chilled for the ultimate tropical treat!

How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

Garnishes

The shine of fresh pineapple chunks or artfully arranged rings on top of this cake creates a show-stopping centerpiece. For a fun contrast, add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or a few maraschino cherries. The garnishes not only make your Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Instagram-worthy, but also promise bursts of juicy flavor in every slice.

Side Dishes

Keep things light and fresh with sidekicks like a fruit salad brimming with berries, mango, and kiwi, or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. A crisp tropical punch or iced tea also pairs wonderfully, rounding out the sunny, festive spirit of classic Hawaiian Pineapple Cake at your table.

Creative Ways to Present

Make mini versions by baking the batter as cupcakes or in a sheet pan for easy party bites. Or, layer squares of cake with frosting and fruit in clear glasses for a parfait-style twist. No matter how you slice it, Hawaiian Pineapple Cake steals the show every time!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you manage to have any leftovers, wrap the cake slices tightly or store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The creamy frosting keeps everything moist and tasty for up to five days—perfect for sneaking a bite whenever the craving hits.

Freezing

Hawaiian Pineapple Cake actually freezes beautifully! For best results, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator, and your cake will taste as fresh as the day you made it.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled, but if you want to take the chill off, let your slice sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving, especially with the cream cheese frosting, to maintain that perfect texture.

FAQs

Can I make Hawaiian Pineapple Cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend. Make sure to check that your other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well, and you’ll have a moist, delicious gluten-free Hawaiian treat.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes! If fresh, juicy pineapples are in season, substitute the canned crushed pineapple with finely chopped fresh pineapple and include any natural juice it releases. Be sure to reach the same volume as the canned variety to ensure the cake stays moist.

What’s the secret to a super moist Hawaiian Pineapple Cake?

The magic is in using the entire can of crushed pineapple—juice and all! That extra liquid infuses the batter with sweet-tart flavor and keeps the texture incredibly moist, even days after baking.

Can I make the cake ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! In fact, this cake tastes even better the next day. Simply prepare and assemble the cake, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Decorate with fresh garnishes just before serving for the prettiest presentation.

What if I don’t have two round pans?

Not to worry—bake the batter in a 9×13-inch pan for a sheet cake version of Hawaiian Pineapple Cake! The baking time might vary slightly, so keep an eye out and do the toothpick test for doneness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a taste of sunshine, look no further than Hawaiian Pineapple Cake. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dessert but dazzling for special occasions, too. Give this recipe a try and let a little island joy brighten your table!

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