Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a delightful and moist dessert that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. With crushed pineapple and a luscious cream cheese frosting, it's perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups, provides the base for the cake's structure.
• Sugar: 2 cups, adds sweetness and moisture to the cake.
• Eggs: 2, helps bind the ingredients and adds richness.
• Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon, acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise.
• Vanilla: 1 teaspoon, enhances the flavor of the cake.
• Salt: A pinch, balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Crushed Pineapple: 1 can (20 oz), undrained, in its own juice, providing moisture and a tropical flavor.
• Chopped Nuts: 1 cup, optional, adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
• Butter: 1/2 cup or 1 stick, used in the frosting to add creaminess.
• Cream Cheese: 1 package (8 oz), softened, for a smooth and tangy frosting.
• Confectioners’ Sugar: 1 1/2 cups, sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• Coconut: For garnish, optional, adds a touch of tropical flavor and texture.

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent the cake from sticking.

Step 2:

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of sugar, 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, a pinch of salt, and the undrained 20 oz can of crushed pineapple. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 3:

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 4:

While the cake is baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together 1/2 cup of softened butter, 8 oz of softened cream cheese, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla until creamy and smooth.

Step 5:

Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of confectioners’ sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 6:

Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly in the pan. While the cake is still warm, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.

Step 7:

Optionally, sprinkle chopped nuts and coconut over the frosting for added flavor and texture. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is best served chilled or at room temperature. This dessert is perfect for parties, family gatherings, or any time you want a sweet treat with a tropical twist. For a beautiful presentation, garnish each slice with a sprinkle of coconut and a slice of fresh pineapple. If you have leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The cream cheese frosting will stay fresh and creamy, making each bite as delightful as the first.

Helpful Notes

You can customize this cake by adding different fruits or nuts. Try incorporating chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch. If you prefer a lighter frosting, you can use a whipped cream topping instead of cream cheese frosting. To enhance the tropical flavor, consider adding a splash of coconut extract to the frosting or the cake batter. If you’re a fan of a more decadent dessert, serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Ina Garten recommends using the best quality vanilla extract for the richest flavor. Chef Martha Stewart suggests toasting the coconut before using it as a garnish to bring out its natural sweetness and add a crispy texture. According to Chef Bobby Flay, allowing the cake to rest overnight in the refrigerator helps the flavors meld together, resulting in an even more delicious cake the next day.