Pineapple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pineapple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This moist and tropical Pineapple Layer Cake uses canned crushed pineapple for a sweet and juicy flavor in every bite. Paired with tangy cream cheese frosting, it’s the perfect balance of sweetness and richness, making it an irresistible dessert for any occasion.


Yield

Serves 10–12


Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1 cup canned crushed pineapple (with juice, not drained)
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk, at room temperature

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 12 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 tablespoons pineapple juice (reserved from the canned pineapple)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, using a hand or stand mixer, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs together on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
  4. Add the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and mix until smooth.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
  6. Gently fold in the crushed pineapple with its juice, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
  8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 2–3 minutes).
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
  3. Mix in the reserved pineapple juice and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
  4. Add more powdered sugar if the frosting is too thin or a splash of milk if it’s too thick.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
  2. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top of the first layer.
  3. Place the second cake layer on top and gently press down.
  4. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting, smoothing it out with a spatula.

Step 4: Decorate

  1. Garnish the cake with pineapple chunks, toasted coconut flakes, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an elegant tropical touch.
  2. Chill the cake for 20–30 minutes to set the frosting before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per 1 Slice, Based on 12 Slices):

Calories: 375, Fat: 18.3g, Saturated Fat: 10.8g, Carbohydrates: 45.8g, Fiber: 0.5g, Sugars: 35.8g, Protein: 3.8g


How It Looks and Tastes

This cake is golden and moist, with bits of pineapple throughout the layers. The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy richness that balances the sweetness of the pineapple, creating a tropical flavor explosion in every bite.


Kitchen Tips

  1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the eggs, buttermilk, and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smooth batter and frosting.
  2. Don’t Drain the Pineapple: The juice from the crushed pineapple adds moisture and sweetness to the cake.
  3. Optional Add-Ins: Fold in 1/2 cup chopped pecans or shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
  4. Adjust Frosting Consistency: Add more powdered sugar or pineapple juice to reach your desired texture.
  5. Storage: Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.

This Pineapple Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a crowd-pleaser with its tropical flavor and luscious texture. It’s perfect for summer parties, birthdays, or whenever you want a sweet and refreshing dessert!

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