If you are craving something delightfully sweet, tender, and bursting with tropical flavor, this Juicy Pineapple Cake Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. It’s a dreamy, moist cake that seamlessly blends the tangy sweetness of crushed pineapple with a soft, buttery crumb that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re baking for a casual family gathering or a festive occasion, this pineapple cake stands out as a vibrant, fresh twist on classic desserts, guaranteed to fill your home with a warm, inviting aroma.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Juicy Pineapple Cake Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each component is carefully chosen to build that perfect balance of moist texture, tropical sweetness, and just a touch of vanilla warmth that lingers with every bite. Let’s take a look at what you need to gather:
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain): The star of the show, providing juicy moisture and bright pineapple flavor throughout the cake.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Gives structure to the cake while keeping it tender and soft.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake beautifully without overpowering the pineapple’s natural tartness.
- 2 large eggs: Help bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works its magic to make the cake rise light and fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic depth to every slice.
- Optional glaze ingredients: ½ cup butter, ¾ cup sugar, ½ cup evaporated milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for a luscious finishing touch.
How to Make Juicy Pineapple Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This sets the stage for your cake to bake evenly with a golden crust and prevents any sticking, making it easy to serve later.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the undrained crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir these together until they form a smooth, sweet pineapple base. This mixture gives the cake its signature moisture and tropical zing.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Sift in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt directly into the wet mixture. Gently fold the dry ingredients in until just combined—be careful not to overmix, or the cake can turn dense rather than soft and fluffy.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Pop it into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, checking with a toothpick near the end to ensure it comes out clean. This signals your cake is perfectly baked—moist inside with a delicate crust on top.
Step 5: Optional Glaze Magic
While the cake is baking, if you want to take your Juicy Pineapple Cake Recipe to the next level, whip up the optional glaze. Melt butter, sugar, and evaporated milk in a small saucepan over medium heat and bring it just to a gentle boil, stirring constantly to blend all the flavors seamlessly. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. After baking, poke small holes across the warm cake’s surface and drizzle this glaze over it. It seeps in deliciously, creating pockets of buttery sweetness that make every bite extra special.
How to Serve Juicy Pineapple Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful presentation, sprinkle some shredded coconut or finely chopped nuts over the glaze before it sets. Fresh pineapple slices or a dollop of whipped cream can add a refreshing texture contrast and elevate your slice to a showstopper dessert.
Side Dishes
This pineapple cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of freshly brewed coffee. The cool creaminess of the ice cream balances the warm, moist cake perfectly, turning your serving into a cozy tropical treat experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in cute ramekins topped with a cherry or mint leaf for a charming touch. Alternatively, layer this cake with whipped cream and pineapple chunks in a trifle bowl to create a stunning, layered dessert ideal for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Juicy Pineapple Cake Recipe can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or refrigerated if your kitchen is warm. Keeping it covered ensures the cake stays soft and prevents it from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this cake ahead of time or save leftovers, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. The cake freezes beautifully for up to 3 months without losing its moisture or flavor.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy frozen cake slices, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature. For a fresh-from-the-oven feel, briefly warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low-temperature oven wrapped in foil.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
You absolutely can! Just make sure to finely crush or puree the fresh pineapple and include its juice to keep the cake moist. Using fresh pineapple might add a slightly different texture but will keep that bright juiciness we love.
Is the optional glaze necessary?
The glaze is not mandatory, but it truly elevates the cake by adding extra buttery sweetness and moisture. If you prefer a simpler cake, it’s delightful on its own without the glaze as well.
Can I add other flavors to this pineapple cake?
Definitely! For a tropical twist, mix in shredded coconut or chopped nuts like macadamias or walnuts into the batter. You can also swap vanilla with almond extract for a unique flavor profile.
What’s the best way to avoid overmixing the batter?
Mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients just until you no longer see flour streaks — a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can develop gluten and make your cake tough rather than soft and tender.
Will this cake work in smaller pans?
You can bake this recipe in smaller pans, but you’ll need to adjust the baking time accordingly. Start checking for doneness around 20-25 minutes to avoid overbaking, and use a toothpick test to confirm.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, there is nothing quite like the warm, inviting comfort of this Juicy Pineapple Cake Recipe. Its juicy, tropical essence and moist crumb make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser any time of year. I can’t wait for you to try baking it and share in that sweet pineapple goodness that never gets old. Happy baking, my friend!
Print
Juicy Pineapple Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Juicy Pineapple Cake is a moist and flavorful tropical dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with crushed pineapple mixed directly into the batter, it offers a delightful burst of fruity sweetness and moisture in every bite. The optional buttery glaze with evaporated milk adds a rich, creamy finish that complements the cake beautifully. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy a classic American sheet cake that’s easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Glaze Ingredients
- ½ cup butter
- ¾ cup sugar
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the crushed pineapple with its juice, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly until well mixed to ensure even sweetness and moisture.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir the batter just until all ingredients are combined — avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Transfer the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Prepare Optional Glaze: While the cake is baking, make the glaze by combining butter, sugar, and evaporated milk in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Apply Glaze: When the cake is done, use a fork or skewer to poke small holes all over the surface. Pour the warm glaze evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in and enhance the moisture and flavor.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool slightly before serving. This helps the glaze set and makes slicing easier. Enjoy the cake as is or with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- This cake is super moist and tends to improve in flavor and texture the next day.
- For an added tropical twist, consider mixing in shredded coconut or chopped nuts into the batter before baking.
- Serving suggestion: pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added richness.
