Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple with juice (do not drain!)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Creamy Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup crushed pineapple (drained, for texture, optional)
For the Topping:
- ½ cup chopped pecans or toasted coconut (for crunch!)
- Pineapple chunks (for garnish, optional)
- ¼ cup brown sugar (optional, adds a caramelized touch!)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Sugar
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, crushed pineapple (with juice), and melted butter.
- Stir until just combined—do not overmix.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before adding the frosting.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
- Fold in drained crushed pineapple (optional for added texture).
Step 4: Assemble & Decorate
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Sprinkle with chopped pecans, toasted coconut, or brown sugar for extra flavor.
- Garnish with pineapple chunks for a decorative touch.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing for the best texture.
Notes
This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is rich, moist, and bursting with tropical flavors! Whether you serve it at a special occasion, a casual get-together, or just as a weekend treat, it’s sure to be a favorite!
So grab your pineapple, cream cheese, and pecans, and bake this delicious tropical cake today!