This Pineapple Heaven Cake is a tropical dream come true! With its light, fluffy base and a sweet pineapple-infused flavor, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or simply indulging in a weekday treat, this cake brings sunshine to your plate.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup pineapple juice (from canned pineapple or fresh)
For the Pineapple Topping:
1 cup crushed pineapple (drained but reserve 2 tbsp juice)
½ cup brown sugar
2 tbsp unsalted butter
½ tsp cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)
For the Whipped Cream Topping (Optional):
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple Topping
In a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
Add the brown sugar and crushed pineapple along with reserved pineapple juice. Stir to combine.
Cook for 3-5 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the pineapple juice, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Spread the prepared pineapple topping evenly at the bottom of the greased cake pan.
Pour the cake batter over the pineapple topping, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert it onto a serving plate.
Step 4: Whipped Cream Topping (Optional)
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the cooled cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Garnish with fresh pineapple slices, maraschino cherries, or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for added flair.
Why This Recipe Works
Moist and Fluffy Texture: The pineapple juice adds a natural sweetness and ensures the cake stays tender.
Balanced Sweetness: The brown sugar and pineapple topping create a caramelized layer that enhances the tropical flavors.
Versatility: Perfect for summer picnics, holiday desserts, or anytime you want a slice of sunshine!
Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success
Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature butter and eggs for a smoother batter and even baking.
Draining Pineapple: Don’t skip draining the crushed pineapple, or the topping might become too soggy.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Chilling the Cake: For cleaner slices, chill the cake for 20-30 minutes before cutting.
Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 12g
- Sugar: 34g
This Pineapple Heaven Cake is a sweet, tangy, and utterly delightful dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its tropical flavor and light texture make it a standout dish that’s easy to prepare yet impressive to serve. 🍍