If you’re looking for a sweet, tropical dessert that’s both moist and flavorful, this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is the perfect treat! 🍍🎂 Bursting with juicy pineapple, topped with a creamy frosting, and finished with coconut flakes, this cake brings a taste of the islands to your kitchen. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something light and refreshing, this easy-to-make cake will be a crowd-pleaser!
Equipment Needed
✔ Mixing bowls – For preparing the batter and frosting
✔ Hand or stand mixer – Helps create a smooth batter
✔ 9×13-inch baking pan – The ideal size for this cake
✔ Whisk and spatula – For mixing and spreading the frosting
✔ Oven – For baking the cake to perfection
✔ Cooling rack – Allows the cake to cool before frosting
Ingredients for Hawaiian Pineapple Cake
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure
- 2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cake rise
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavors
- 2 large eggs – Adds richness
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Boosts flavor
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice – The star ingredient
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – For a creamy texture
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness
- 2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the taste
- ½ cup shredded coconut – A tropical finishing touch
How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, vanilla extract, and crushed pineapple (with juice). Stir until well combined.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
Step 3: Make the Frosting
In a bowl, beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread over the cooled cake and sprinkle with shredded coconut.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Slice and serve this delicious cake for a tropical-inspired dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds! 🍍🎂
Tips for the Best Hawaiian Pineapple Cake
✔ Use crushed pineapple with juice – Keeps the cake extra moist.
✔ Don’t overmix the batter – Ensures a light and fluffy texture.
✔ Let the cake cool completely – Prevents the frosting from melting.
✔ Toast the coconut flakes – Adds a crunchy, nutty flavor.
✔ Refrigerate before serving – Enhances the flavors and makes slicing easier.
Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake
🍍 Tropical flavor in every bite – Bursting with juicy pineapple and coconut.
🎂 Super moist and fluffy – No dry cake here!
🧁 Creamy, rich frosting – Perfectly balances the sweet pineapple cake.
🌺 Easy to make – No fancy techniques or equipment needed.
🍽️ Great for any occasion – Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a summer treat!
The Science Behind Their Unique Texture
The high moisture content from crushed pineapple and eggs gives this cake a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Baking soda reacts with the natural acidity in pineapple, helping the cake rise while keeping it tender.
The Magic of Hawaiian Pineapple Cake
What makes this cake truly magical is how simple ingredients come together to create a tropical explosion of flavor. The natural sweetness of pineapple, combined with the tangy cream cheese frosting and coconut topping, creates a harmonious balance that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
Serving Suggestions
🍦 Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
🍯 Drizzle with honey or caramel sauce for a richer taste.
☕ Pair with a cup of coffee or tropical fruit tea for a perfect treat.
🥥 Sprinkle with chopped nuts for added crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake stays fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, but make sure to crush it and include the juice for moisture.
Can I make this a layer cake?
Absolutely! Bake in two 9-inch round pans and add frosting between the layers.
Can I freeze Hawaiian Pineapple Cake?
Yes! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Conclusion
This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is the ultimate tropical dessert, offering a perfect combination of moist cake, sweet pineapple, creamy frosting, and coconut goodness. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, summer party, or just as a special treat, this cake will transport you straight to the sunny beaches of Hawaii! 🌴🍍🎂
Hawaiian Pineapple Cake
This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert bursting with tropical pineapple flavor. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, it’s the perfect sweet treat for any occasion!
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 20-ounce can crushed pineapple (with juice)
For the Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped pecans or coconut flakes (optional, for topping)
✔ Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
✔ Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
✔ Add the Wet Ingredients
- Add eggs, vanilla extract, and crushed pineapple (with juice). Stir until well combined—no need for an electric mixer.
✔ Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
✔ Prepare the Frosting
- Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy.
✔ Frost the Cake
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Sprinkle with chopped pecans or coconut flakes if desired.
✔ Serve & Enjoy
- Slice and serve at room temperature. Enjoy this tropical delight!
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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Enhance the Flavor: Add shredded coconut or chopped macadamia nuts to the batter for extra texture.
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Lighter Option: Substitute half the sugar with honey or reduce sugar by ¼ cup for a less sweet version.
