If you’re craving a cake that’s both moist and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Moist Pineapple Cake recipe. Combining the tropical sweetness of pineapple with a creamy cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a special treat, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 can of pineapple, undrained
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
For the Icing:
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1 stick of butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
Directions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the undrained pineapple, flour, sugar, eggs, and baking soda. Beat the ingredients together until the batter is smooth and well combined.
3. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Cool the Cake:
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.
5. Make the Icing:
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the icing. In a separate mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, continuing to beat until the icing is smooth and spreadable.
6. Ice the Cake:
- Once the cake has cooled slightly, spread the icing evenly over the top of the warm cake. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: 280 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Tips:
- Cool Completely Before Serving: Ensure the cake is fully cooled before slicing and serving. This allows the icing to set properly and makes cutting easier.
- Garnish for Extra Appeal: Consider garnishing the cake with a few pineapple slices or a sprinkle of shredded coconut for added visual appeal and flavor.
- Serve with a Side: This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
- Room Temperature: Serve the cake at room temperature to enjoy the full flavor and texture of the moist cake and creamy frosting.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cool environment helps maintain the freshness of the cream cheese frosting.
- Avoid Freezing: While the cake itself can freeze, the cream cheese frosting may not maintain its texture well. It’s best to store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Wrap Properly: If you need to store the cake for a longer period, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors.
- Serve Cold or Room Temperature: When ready to serve leftover cake, you can either let it come to room temperature or enjoy it chilled, depending on your preference.
Following these tips will help you keep your Moist Pineapple Cake fresh and delicious, so you can enjoy every last bite!
Variations:
- Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut to the cake batter or frosting for a tropical flavor enhancement. You can mix in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut with the dry ingredients or sprinkle it on top of the iced cake.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture. About 1/2 cup of nuts can be folded into the batter before baking.
- Citrus Infusion: For a citrusy twist, replace part of the pineapple with finely grated lemon or orange zest. You can add about 1-2 teaspoons of zest to the batter to complement the pineapple flavor.
- Fruit Variations: Substitute the pineapple with other fruits such as crushed peaches or apricots for a different flavor profile. Ensure the fruit is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the batter.
- Spiced Version: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a spiced variation. This can give the cake a warm, comforting flavor.
- Chocolate Version: Mix in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter for a chocolatey twist. Alternatively, you can top the iced cake with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: For added richness, swirl some of the cream cheese icing into the batter before baking. Drop spoonfuls of the icing into the batter and gently swirl with a knife.
- Layered Cake: Bake the batter in two 9-inch round cake pans and layer with icing in between for a more elegant presentation. Adjust the baking time as needed for thinner layers.
- Cupcake Variation: Use the batter to make pineapple cupcakes. Fill cupcake liners about 2/3 full and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Frosting Variations: Experiment with different flavored extracts in the frosting, such as almond or coconut, to match the cake’s variation or personal preference. Adjust the amount of milk to achieve the desired consistency.
FAQs:
1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Make sure to crush it well and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the batter to maintain the right consistency.
2. Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cake a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
3. How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
The cake is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should also spring back when lightly touched.
4. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
5. What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
6. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
7. How can I make the frosting thicker or thinner?
To thicken the frosting, add more powdered sugar. To thin it, add a little more milk, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
8. Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the icing?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the icing may be slightly less creamy. Make sure it is softened to blend well with the butter.
9. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
Grease and flour the baking dish before pouring in the batter. You can also use parchment paper to line the pan for added protection against sticking.
10. What other types of icing can I use with this cake?
You can use other types of icing such as chocolate ganache, vanilla buttercream, or even a glaze. Adjust the flavors to complement the pineapple cake according to your preference.
This Moist Pineapple Cake offers a delightful combination of tropical pineapple and rich cream cheese frosting. Its moist texture and sweet flavor make it an irresistible treat for any occasion. With easy preparation and a simple yet delicious frosting, this cake is a perfect choice for both everyday indulgence and special celebrations. Enjoy each bite of this delectable dessert and watch it quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire!