Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a delightful treat that combines the tropical flavors of pineapple with a moist, tender crumb. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or just a special treat for yourself. The combination of crushed pineapple and the rich cream cheese frosting makes this cake incredibly flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cake that gives it structure.
• 2 cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture to the cake.
• 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder and adds richness to the cake.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise, giving it a light and fluffy texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cake.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 (20-ounce) can of crushed pineapple (undrained, in its own juice, not syrup): The star ingredient that adds moisture, sweetness, and a tropical flavor to the cake.
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional): Adds a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor. Walnuts or pecans work well in this recipe.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a creamy texture to the frosting.
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened: The main ingredient in the frosting, providing a tangy and smooth finish.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds flavor and aroma to the frosting.
• 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting, giving it a smooth consistency.
• Coconut for garnish (optional): Adds a tropical touch and enhances the presentation of the cake.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish, or line it with parchment paper to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and the entire can of crushed pineapple (including the juice) to the dry ingredients. Mix until everything is well combined and the batter is smooth. The pineapple juice adds moisture to the cake, so there’s no need for additional liquids.
4. Fold in the Nuts (Optional): If you’re using nuts, gently fold them into the batter. This will add a nice crunch and a nutty flavor to the cake.
5. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and spring back when touched lightly.
6. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: While the cake is baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and continue beating until combined. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
7. Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake. Use a spatula to create swirls or patterns in the frosting if desired.
8. Garnish with Coconut (Optional): For an extra touch of tropical flavor, sprinkle shredded coconut over the top of the frosting. This adds both texture and a lovely visual appeal to the cake.
9. Serve: Slice the cake into squares and serve. This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, or a cool glass of milk.

Tips for Success:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter and cream cheese for the frosting are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• Pineapple: Using crushed pineapple in its own juice is essential for the right balance of sweetness and moisture. Pineapple packed in syrup can make the cake too sweet and heavy.
• Storage: This cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually develop over time, making it even more delicious the next day.

Variations:

• Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut directly to the batter for a more pronounced coconut flavor.
• Lighter Version: Substitute half of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
• Citrus Zing: Add a teaspoon of lemon or lime zest to the frosting for a citrusy contrast to the sweet pineapple.

This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a delightful dessert that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. With its moist texture and rich cream cheese frosting, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy