Are you dreaming of sunshine and sandy beaches? Then transport your taste buds to paradise with this incredibly moist and flavorful pineapple cake! Made with fresh pineapple for the ultimate tropical twist, this recipe is surprisingly easy, perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious homemade dessert – a true showstopper that's as beautiful as it is tasty. This recipe is perfect for those looking for easy recipes, healthy meals (with modifications!), or quick dinner ideas (although it's more of a delightful dessert!).
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- 1 cup crushed fresh pineapple (about 1 small pineapple)
- ½ cup pineapple juice
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup crushed fresh pineapple (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This simple prep step ensures your cake releases easily.
Making the Cake Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even leavening throughout the cake.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. A stand mixer is ideal, but you can achieve great results with a hand mixer as well.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a small bowl, gently combine the buttermilk and crushed pineapple.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the pineapple mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
Baking the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Preparing the Frosting:
- While the cake is still warm, begin preparing the frosting. Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
Assembling and Serving:
- Once the cake has cooled completely, frost it with the cream cheese frosting.
- Garnish with extra crushed pineapple, if desired.
Tips for the Best Pineapple Cake:
- Fresh Pineapple is Key: Using fresh pineapple adds incredible flavor and moisture. Canned pineapple can be substituted, but it will result in a slightly different taste and texture.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for optimal mixing and texture.
Variations:
- Coconut Pineapple Cake: Add ½ cup shredded coconut to the cake batter for an extra layer of tropical flavor.
- Spiced Pineapple Cake: Add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice to the batter for a warm and comforting twist.
- Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Caramelize pineapple rings and brown sugar in the bottom of the pan before adding the batter for a classic upside-down cake.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 18-20g
- Carbohydrates: 45-50g
- Protein: 4-5g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This delicious pineapple cake is a perfect addition to any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations. Enjoy this taste of the tropics!