Are you dreaming of a taste of the tropics? Then look no further! This pineapple cake recipe with its luscious cream cheese frosting is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and utterly delicious. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for both beginner bakers and experienced cooks looking for a quick and impressive dessert. This recipe is guaranteed to become a new family favorite, a show-stopper for any gathering, or a simple treat for a quiet night in. Get ready to transport your taste buds to paradise!
Ingredients:
For the Pineapple Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained well
- ½ cup buttermilk
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Making the Pineapple Cake:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is easiest with an electric mixer.
- Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Don't overmix!
- Fold in Pineapple: Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Beat Cream Cheese & Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar & Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer with a generous amount of cream cheese frosting. Top with the second cake layer and frost the entire cake.
Tips for Baking Success:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature: This ensures that they blend together properly and create a smooth batter and frosting.
- Drain the pineapple well: Excess liquid can make the cake soggy.
- Let the cakes cool completely before frosting: This prevents the frosting from melting.
Variations:
- Add nuts: Chopped pecans or macadamia nuts would be a delicious addition to the cake batter.
- Use different frosting: A simple glaze or even a buttercream frosting would be tasty alternatives.
- Add spices: A touch of cinnamon or nutmeg would complement the pineapple flavor beautifully.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients used and serving size. For a precise calculation, use a nutritional calculator with your specific ingredients. However, expect this recipe to be relatively high in calories, fat, and sugar due to the nature of the ingredients. It's best enjoyed as an occasional treat.
This pineapple cake with cream cheese frosting is a delightful recipe perfect for any occasion. The sweet and tangy flavors combined with the creamy frosting create a truly unforgettable dessert. Enjoy!