Are you dreaming of a moist, tender cake bursting with tropical flavor? Then look no further! This pineapple bundt cake recipe is your ticket to a delicious and unforgettable dessert. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros seeking a quick and impressive homemade treat. This recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy, making it a perfect addition to any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings. Let's dive in and bake up some sunshine!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained (reserve 2 tablespoons of juice)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan thoroughly. This step prevents sticking and ensures a clean release. You can also use baking spray with flour for an even easier approach.
Making the Batter:
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
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In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is crucial for a tender crumb. Use an electric mixer for best results, but a hand mixer works too!
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice and buttermilk. This helps create a moist and tender cake.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
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Gently fold in the crushed pineapple and shredded coconut (if using).
Baking and Serving:
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Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cake from breaking.
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Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
Tips for the Best Pineapple Bundt Cake:
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal creaming.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Properly grease the pan: This is key to preventing sticking and making the cake easier to remove from the pan.
- Check for doneness: Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to check if the cake is fully baked. It should come out clean.
Variations:
- Add nuts: Chopped macadamia nuts or pecans would be a delicious addition to this cake.
- Spice it up: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Citrus zest: A little orange or lemon zest would complement the pineapple beautifully.
- Different glaze: Experiment with different glazes like a cream cheese frosting or a simple lemon glaze.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 18-20g
- Sugar: Approximately 30-35g
This delicious pineapple bundt cake recipe is a surefire way to impress your friends and family. It’s a versatile recipe that allows for customization and is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the sweet taste of sunshine!