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