There’s something undeniably delightful about the combination of tropical fruit and cake. That’s where Hawaiian Pineapple Cake comes into play—perfect for bringing a taste of the tropics to your home. This cake is not just delicious; it’s a reminder of the beauty and simplicity of flavors that can brighten up any day. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a treat for yourself, Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is sure to impress with its moist, light texture and burst of pineapple goodness.

I first encountered this cake at a summer barbecue, where it was served as a refreshing and light dessert. The sweet and tangy pineapple perfectly complemented the soft, spongy cake, and I knew I had to make it myself. Over time, I’ve added my personal touches, but the core of the recipe has stayed true to that first taste. Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a classic that never disappoints, and it’s one I’m excited to share with you.

Curious how to make this delicious cake? Keep reading for a detailed guide on how to bake the perfect Hawaiian Pineapple Cake at home.

Why I Love This Recipe?

What makes Hawaiian Pineapple Cake stand out is its simplicity and unique flavor profile. It isn’t just a basic cake with pineapple thrown in—it’s a harmonious blend of ingredients that come together to create something special.

The pineapple adds moisture to the cake, keeping it soft and tender. Plus, it infuses the cake with a sweet, slightly tart flavor that brightens up each bite. The texture of the cake is light and airy, with a satisfying crumb that holds together without being dense. The added bonus? It’s incredibly easy to make.

This cake can be served at various occasions, from casual get-togethers to more formal celebrations. It’s perfect for summer parties because it feels light and refreshing, but it’s also comforting enough for any time of year. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced pro, this recipe is foolproof and always delicious.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

Making Hawaiian Pineapple Cake requires simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need:

For the Cake:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The base of your cake. All-purpose flour gives it the right texture—soft but sturdy enough to hold the pineapple and any frosting or glaze you may want to add.
1 teaspoon baking soda – This will help the cake rise, creating the perfect fluffy texture.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Works with the baking soda to ensure a light and airy cake.
¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
½ cup butter – Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
1 cup granulated sugar – For sweetness and to help the cake rise.
2 large eggs – Provide structure and help bind everything together.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a subtle warm flavor to complement the pineapple.
1 cup canned crushed pineapple – The star of the dish. Make sure to drain it well so the cake doesn’t become too wet.
½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut – Adds texture and a subtle tropical flavor.
½ cup crushed walnuts or pecans (optional) – For a bit of crunch and nuttiness. It’s optional, but they add a lovely texture contrast.

For the Frosting:

8 ounces cream cheese – Softened to create a smooth, creamy frosting.
¼ cup butter – Helps with the consistency and adds a rich taste to the frosting.
2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting without making it too heavy.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – To add extra flavor to the frosting.
2 tablespoons crushed pineapple – Just a little extra pineapple to tie the frosting together with the cake.

These ingredients work together beautifully to create a moist, flavorful cake that’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.

How Much Time Will You Need?

The good news is that this cake doesn’t take long to make, but it’s important to set aside time for preparation and baking. Here’s an estimated timeline:

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35-40 minutes
Cooling time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes

If you’re new to baking, don’t worry—it’s a relatively straightforward recipe. You’ll spend the most time mixing the ingredients and waiting for the cake to bake. Once it’s out of the oven, allow it to cool completely before frosting.

How to Make This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step guide on how to make this delicious Hawaiian Pineapple Cake.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cake will bake evenly. Grease and flour your cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and helps to avoid clumps when you mix them with the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. The air incorporated during this process helps create a light, airy texture in your cake.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. This will help create a smooth batter without overworking the mixture.

Step 5: Incorporate the Pineapple and Dry Ingredients

With your mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Alternate between adding the dry ingredients and the crushed pineapple. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

Step 6: Add Coconut and Nuts

Once the batter is mixed, fold in the shredded coconut and crushed nuts, if using. These ingredients add texture and flavor, making the cake even more delicious.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time is essential for making sure the frosting doesn’t melt when you apply it.

Step 9: Prepare the Frosting

While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract and crushed pineapple.

Step 10: Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, spread a generous layer of frosting on top of the cake. You can also frost the sides if you like. Garnish with extra coconut flakes or pineapple slices for an extra tropical touch.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to presenting your Hawaiian Pineapple Cake, a few simple touches can elevate its appeal and make it look as delightful as it tastes.

Presentation Tip 1: Garnish with Fresh Pineapple Slices

For a fresh, tropical look, add a few slices of pineapple to the top of your cake. You can arrange the slices in a fan shape or a spiral pattern to create a visually stunning presentation. If you want to go the extra mile, lightly grill the pineapple slices for an extra caramelized flavor.

Presentation Tip 2: Toasted Coconut Flakes

Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top of the frosting. This adds texture and enhances the tropical feel of the cake. Toasting the coconut gives it a deeper flavor, making the cake look even more enticing.

Presentation Tip 3: Dust with Powdered Sugar

For a simple, elegant touch, dust the top of the cake with a little powdered sugar right before serving. This not only makes the cake look more polished, but the subtle sweetness adds to the overall flavor.

Presentation Tip 4: Serve with Whipped Cream or Ice Cream

Serve each slice of Hawaiian Pineapple Cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess complements the pineapple and coconut flavors while adding richness to the dessert.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Even Better

Trick 1: Use Fresh Pineapple for Extra Flavor

While canned pineapple works great in this recipe, using fresh pineapple can add an extra layer of flavor. Fresh pineapple is juicier and has a more intense taste, which can make your cake even more refreshing.

Trick 2: Don’t Overmix the Batter

To achieve the light and airy texture of the cake, make sure not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added. Mixing too much can result in a dense cake. Stir just until the ingredients are incorporated.

Trick 3: Experiment with Frosting Flavors

While the cream cheese frosting is a perfect match for this cake, you can experiment with different flavorings. Try adding a bit of lime zest or a splash of coconut extract to the frosting for an extra twist. A dash of rum flavor could also give it a fun, tropical flair.

Trick 4: Let the Cake Cool Completely Before Frosting

This step is crucial! If you try to frost the cake while it’s still warm, the frosting may melt and slide off. Let the cake cool completely, ideally on a wire rack, before applying the frosting. This will ensure that the frosting stays intact and holds its shape.

Trick 5: Make It Ahead

Hawaiian Pineapple Cake can be made ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store the cake in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for a couple of days. This makes it an ideal dessert for parties or gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Not Draining the Pineapple

One of the most common mistakes when making Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is not draining the pineapple properly. If you use canned pineapple, be sure to drain it thoroughly. Excess moisture from the pineapple can make your cake soggy and alter its texture.

Mistake 2: Overbaking the Cake

To ensure a moist cake, don’t overbake it. Keep an eye on the cake as it nears the 35-minute mark, and check for doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is done. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture.

Mistake 3: Using Cold Butter and Cream Cheese

For a smooth, lump-free frosting, it’s essential to use softened butter and cream cheese. Cold ingredients will not blend well and could leave chunks in your frosting. Allow them to come to room temperature before using.

Mistake 4: Not Letting the Cake Cool Before Frosting

As mentioned earlier, it’s essential to let the cake cool completely before frosting it. If the cake is too warm, the frosting may melt and slide off. Let it cool on a wire rack to ensure proper cooling.

Mistake 5: Using Too Much Flour

Too much flour can make the cake dense and dry. Be sure to measure the flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife. If you pack the flour into the cup, you might end up with too much, affecting the texture of your cake.

How to Store It

Hawaiian Pineapple Cake stores well if you follow the right steps:

Short-Term Storage

Once the cake has cooled and is frosted, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This will keep the cake fresh and prevent it from drying out.

Long-Term Storage

If you want to store the cake for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, ensuring no air can get inside. Freeze the cake for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and serving.

Storing Frosting Separately

If you have leftover frosting, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can also freeze the frosting for up to 3 months. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature and rewhip it before using it again.

FAQ

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple? Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but be sure to chop it into small pieces and drain it well to remove excess juice.

2. Can I make this cake gluten-free? Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure the flour blend has xanthan gum or another binding agent for the right texture.

3. How can I make the frosting dairy-free? To make the frosting dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese and margarine or coconut oil instead of butter. This will still give you a creamy, delicious frosting.

4. Can I add other fruits to this cake? Yes, you can add other tropical fruits such as mango or papaya to the cake or the frosting. Just keep in mind that adding extra moisture could affect the cake’s texture.

5. How do I prevent the cake from sinking in the middle? Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature and that you’re using fresh baking soda and baking powder. Also, don’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake that doesn’t rise properly.