Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe

Tropical Bliss: Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe for Paradise Lovers

Crafting a mouthwatering hawaiian pineapple cake brings tropical sunshine right into your kitchen.

Sweet memories of island breezes dance through this delectable dessert.

Tropical fruits merge with classic baking techniques to create something magical.

Softness and tang combine in each delightful slice.

Bakers love how simple ingredients transform into an extraordinary treat.

Layers of golden cake peek through chunks of bright, juicy pineapple.

Surprising bursts of flavor await when you slice into this delightful creation.

Grab a fork and let’s make something spectacular that will have everyone asking for seconds.

FAQs About Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

  • Is this cake suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

This cake contains wheat flour, eggs, dairy, and nuts, which may not be suitable for those with gluten, egg, dairy, or nut allergies. Consider substituting ingredients or consulting with individuals about their specific dietary needs.

  • How can I ensure the cake stays moist?

The addition of fresh and crushed pineapple helps keep the cake exceptionally moist. The pineapple juice drizzle and cream cheese frosting also contribute to maintaining the cake’s soft texture and preventing dryness.

  • Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be prepared a day in advance. After frosting and adding toppings, store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually develop and become more intense overnight, making it even more delicious.

Why Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Feels Like Summer

  • Celebrate Tropical Simplicity: Dive into a hassle-free cake that brings exotic island vibes right to your kitchen with minimal prep work.
  • Master Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Create a showstopping treat that delights guests and family members with its rich, indulgent pineapple and cream cheese combination.
  • Customize with Ease: Adaptable recipe allows for personal touches like adding extra nuts or adjusting coconut levels to match your taste preferences.
  • Stress-Free Baking Experience: Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, offering straightforward steps that guarantee a delicious result without complex techniques.

All The Ingredients In Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

For the Cake Base:
  • Butter: Provides richness and helps create a tender cake texture.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cake's golden-brown color.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake's structure.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Forms the primary structure of the cake.
  • Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Help the cake rise and achieve a light, fluffy consistency.
For the Fruit:
  • Fresh Pineapple: Adds natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.
  • Crushed Pineapple: Enhances the pineapple flavor and provides additional moisture.
For the Frosting and Topping:
  • Cream Cheese: Creates a tangy, creamy frosting base.
  • Butter: Adds richness to the frosting.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting.
  • Vanilla Extract: Provides a warm, complementary flavor.
  • Shredded Coconut, Macadamia Nuts: Add tropical texture and crunch.
  • Pineapple Juice: Enhances moisture and intensifies the tropical flavor.

How To Bake Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

Step 1: Preheat Oven And Prepare Baking Pan

Turn the oven to 350°F and coat a 9×13-inch baking pan with generous butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Smooth Butter Base

In a large mixing bowl, blend butter and sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light, airy, and creates a creamy consistency.

Step 3: Add Eggs Gradually

Crack eggs into the butter mixture one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to ensure a smooth and well-incorporated batter.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift flour, baking powder, and baking soda together in a separate bowl, then slowly fold into the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined to maintain a soft cake texture.

Step 5: Incorporate Pineapple Pieces

Gently fold in fresh chopped pineapple and crushed pineapple:
  • Fresh chopped pineapple
  • Crushed pineapple

Distribute the fruit evenly throughout the batter for consistent flavor.

Step 6: Transfer Batter To Pan

Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a smooth surface.

Step 7: Bake The Cake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean with no wet batter.

Step 8: Cool The Cake

Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely inside the pan, which helps stabilize the cake’s structure.

Step 9: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

Whip cream cheese frosting by combining:
  • Softened cream cheese
  • Butter
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Mix until the frosting becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 10: Frost The Cake

Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting in an even layer across the top.

Step 11: Add Tropical Toppings

Sprinkle the cake with:
  • Shredded coconut
  • Chopped macadamia nuts

Drizzle pineapple juice over the cake to enhance moisture and tropical flavors.

Step 12: Chill And Serve

Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set and flavors to blend perfectly.

Easy Tips For Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

  • Check Cake Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the cake reaches 205-210°F internally for perfect doneness.
  • Prevent Fruit Sinking: Toss chopped pineapple in a light dusting of flour before folding into batter to keep fruit evenly distributed.
  • Boost Moisture Levels: Replace some butter with vegetable oil to create an extra soft, tender cake texture that stays moist longer.
  • Maximize Flavor Depth: Toast coconut and macadamia nuts briefly before sprinkling to release their rich, nutty essential oils and enhance overall taste.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow butter, eggs, and cream cheese to sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before mixing to ensure smoother, more consistent blending.

Creative Twists On Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

  • Gluten-Free Tropical Delight: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend, ensuring celiac-friendly enjoyment without compromising taste or texture.
  • Vegan Pineapple Paradise: Swap butter with coconut oil, eggs with flax eggs, and cream cheese frosting with cashew-based cream cheese alternative for plant-based indulgence.
  • Low-Sugar Tropical Treat: Use monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar, reduce quantity, and incorporate Greek yogurt to maintain moisture while cutting down on calories.
  • Nut-Free Island Cake: Eliminate macadamia nuts and replace with toasted coconut flakes or sunflower seeds for those with nut allergies, preserving the cake's tropical essence.

What Goes Well With Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

  • Tropical Rum Delight Pairing: Serve chilled piña colada cocktail alongside the cake, matching the pineapple and coconut flavors for a Caribbean-inspired experience.
  • Complementary Cheese Plate: Select mild brie or creamy camembert with toasted macadamia nuts, creating a sophisticated contrast to the sweet cake's rich profile.
  • Refreshing Fruit Accompaniment: Plate fresh mango and passion fruit slices next to each cake serving, enhancing the tropical essence and providing a light, tangy counterpoint.
  • Smooth Beverage Match: Brew smooth Hawaiian Kona coffee with light cream, allowing its subtle notes to harmonize with the cake's complex pineapple and coconut undertones.

How To Store Hawaiian Pineapple Cake The Easy Way

  • Transfer leftover cake to an airtight container, cover tightly with plastic wrap or lid, and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cream cheese frosting requires cool temperatures to maintain its texture and prevent spoilage.
  • Wrap individual cake slices or whole cake in plastic wrap, then place inside a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain moisture and quality.
  • Keep cake at room temperature for no more than 2 hours. If the room is warm, refrigerate immediately to prevent bacterial growth and preserve the cream cheese frosting's integrity.
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Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe

Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe


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4.6 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 25-30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Sweet Hawaiian Pineapple Cake celebrates tropical flavors with moist layers of sunshine-infused goodness. Rich, creamy frosting and juicy pineapple chunks promise a delightful island-inspired dessert you’ll savor with pure culinary joy.


Ingredients

Scale

Cake Base:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda

Fruit and Filling:

  • 2 cups fresh pineapple, chopped
  • 1/2 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup crushed pineapple

Frosting and Topping:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/4 cup chopped macadamia nuts

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure easy cake removal.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the cake.
  3. Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to develop a rich, uniform batter.
  4. Sift together flour, baking powder, and baking soda, then gradually fold into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined to maintain a tender crumb.
  5. Gently fold in fresh chopped pineapple and crushed pineapple, distributing the fruit evenly throughout the batter.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly and creating a smooth surface.
  7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
  8. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely in the pan, which helps the texture set properly.
  9. While the cake cools, prepare the cream cheese frosting by whipping together softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  10. Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting in an even layer across the top.
  11. Sprinkle shredded coconut and chopped macadamia nuts over the frosting, creating a tropical-inspired topping.
  12. Drizzle pineapple juice over the cake to enhance moisture and intensify the tropical flavor profile.
  13. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set and flavors to meld together.

Notes

  • Use fresh, ripe pineapple for the most vibrant and authentic tropical flavor in the cake.
  • Room temperature ingredients help create a smoother, more even cake batter with better incorporation.
  • Drain pineapple thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the cake soggy or dense.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend, ensuring to add xanthan gum for proper texture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 345
  • Sugar: 27 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 43 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg
Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks

Contributing Writer

Expertise

  • Healthy recipe development
  • Plant-based cooking
  • Nutritional analysis
  • Food writing and content creation

Education

Culinary Institute of America
Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program
Focus: Culinary fundamentals, nutrition, and healthy cooking technique


Olivia believes good food should feed both the body and the soul. She earned her Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate from the Culinary Institute of America, where she focused on nutrition and practical cooking techniques that make healthy eating easy.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Olivia shares single-serving recipes that are fresh, plant-forward, and full of heart. She loves helping people eat better, without stress, strict rules, or sacrificing flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Olivia spends her time tending her backyard garden, practicing yoga, and discovering hidden gems in Portland’s food scene.

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