Juicy Pineapple Cake Recipe

The Dreamiest Juicy Pineapple Cake Recipe for Sweet Moments

Biting into a dreamy pineapple cake that bursts with tropical sweetness.

Sunlight-drenched flavors dance across your palate with each moist, tender slice.

Ripe, golden fruit nestles perfectly within a tender crumb that melts delicately.

Memories of warm summer afternoons flood back as fragrant notes of caramelized pineapple waft through your kitchen.

Home bakers rejoice – this recipe promises pure, uncomplicated delight without complicated techniques.

Moist layers promise a celebration of simple, pure ingredients that sing together.

This cake will transform your dessert game and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why Juicy Pineapple Cake Is A Must-Bake

  • Burst with Tropical Flavor: Dive into a slice of pure sunshine with this pineapple cake that delivers an explosion of sweet, tangy tropical notes in every single bite.
  • Incredibly Easy to Whip Up: No complicated techniques required – mix everything in one bowl, pour into a pan, and bake. Perfect for baking novices and busy home cooks who want maximum deliciousness with minimal effort.
  • Moisture Magic Technique: The unique method of adding crushed pineapple directly into the batter ensures an incredibly moist, tender cake that stays soft and delectable for days after baking.
  • Versatile Dessert Wonder: Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, family gathering, or just craving a sweet treat, this cake adapts perfectly to any occasion and impresses without requiring professional baking skills.

What You’ll Need For Juicy Pineapple Cake

Dry Ingredients:
  • Flour: Provides structure and base for the cake, all-purpose works best.
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Sweet base that adds moisture and depth of flavor.
  • Baking Soda: Helps the cake rise and creates a light texture.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Eggs: Bind ingredients together and provide richness.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, classic flavor to the cake.
  • Crushed Pineapple: Brings natural sweetness and moisture, use canned for consistency.
Glaze Ingredients:
  • Butter: Creates rich, smooth base for the glaze.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps thicken the glaze.
  • Pineapple Juice: Intensifies tropical flavor.
  • Heavy Cream (Optional): Provides extra richness and smooth texture.

How To Put Together Juicy Pineapple Cake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 350F (175C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and give it some love – either spray it with cooking spray, rub it with butter, or line it with parchment paper to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Create the Magical Batter

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Baking soda
  • Salt

Crack in the eggs, splash in vanilla extract, and dump the entire can of crushed pineapple (juice and all). Gently fold everything together until just mixed – don’t go crazy with the stirring!

Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour your sunshine-colored batter into the prepared pan. Slide it into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick comes out clean and the top looks perfectly golden. Let the cake hang out in the pan and cool down a bit.

Step 4: Craft the Liquid Gold Glaze

In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add:
  • Sugar
  • Pineapple juice
  • Heavy cream

Stir constantly as the mixture bubbles and thickens. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat once it looks smooth and slightly syrupy.

Step 5: Drench the Cake

While the cake is still warm, go wild with a fork or skewer and poke holes all over. This lets the glaze seep deep into every delicious crevice. Pour the warm glaze evenly across the cake, watching it sink into those little holes.

Step 6: Serve and Celebrate

Let the cake cool completely – patience is key! Slice into beautiful squares. For extra pizzazz, top with a dollop of whipped cream or sprinkle some toasted coconut. Each bite is a tropical vacation for your taste buds!

Pro Tip: This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to mingle and get more delicious.

Simple Variations For Juicy Pineapple Cake

  • Tropical Coconut Crunch: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the cake before baking and mix shredded coconut into the batter for an enhanced tropical texture and nutty flavor.
  • Rum-Soaked Island Style: Add 2 tablespoons of dark rum to the glaze and drizzle extra rum on the warm cake for a grown-up version with deep, rich undertones.
  • Nutty Pineapple Paradise: Fold chopped macadamia nuts or pecans into the batter and garnish the top with additional nuts for added crunch and warmth.
  • Cream Cheese Swirl Edition: Create a cream cheese mixture and swirl through the batter before baking, adding a tangy richness that complements the sweet pineapple perfectly.

FAQs About Juicy Pineapple Cake

  • Why does this pineapple cake use the entire can of crushed pineapple?

The whole can ensures maximum moisture and intense pineapple flavor throughout the cake, making it super juicy and delicious without requiring additional liquid ingredients.

  • Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned crushed pineapple?

Canned crushed pineapple works best because it’s already broken down and includes the perfect amount of juice. Fresh pineapple might make the cake too wet and change the texture.

  • What makes the pineapple glaze special?

The glaze is cooked with butter, sugar, and pineapple juice, creating a rich, caramelized topping that soaks directly into the warm cake, intensifying the pineapple flavor and adding incredible moisture.

  • Is this cake difficult to make for beginner bakers?

Not at all! This recipe is straightforward and forgiving. The simple mixing method and basic ingredients make it perfect for bakers of all skill levels, with minimal chance of failure.

Easy Tips For Juicy Pineapple Cake Success

  • Prevent Overmixing: Stir cake batter just until ingredients are combined to keep the texture light and tender, avoiding tough, dense results.
  • Check Cake Doneness: Use the toothpick test by inserting it into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean with no wet batter, your cake is perfectly baked.
  • Enhance Moisture Absorption: Poking holes in the warm cake allows the pineapple glaze to penetrate deeply, creating a more flavorful and moist dessert.
  • Customize Toppings: Experiment with garnishes like toasted coconut, cream cheese frosting, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to elevate the cake's flavor profile.
  • Storage Tip: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for 23 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain its delicious moisture and freshness.

Best Storage And Reheat Tips For Juicy Pineapple Cake

  • Refrigerate Leftovers: Transfer remaining cake slices to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture loss and maintain the cake's delicious texture.
  • Freeze for Later: Wrap individual cake slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor preservation.
  • Reheating Method: Gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the cake.
  • Glaze Refresh: If the glaze has hardened, warm the slice briefly to help soften and revive the cake's moisture and shine.

Juicy Pineapple Cake Pairing Ideas

  • Pair with Tropical Cocktail: Blend a refreshing piña colada that mirrors the cake's pineapple flavor, creating a harmonious tropical experience with rum, coconut cream, and fresh pineapple juice.
  • Complement with Creamy Beverage: Serve alongside a cold glass of vanilla bean milk or a smooth coconut milk latte to balance the cake's sweet and tangy notes.
  • Match with Vanilla Ice Cream: Top a warm slice with a scoop of rich vanilla ice cream, allowing the cold, creamy texture to contrast beautifully with the warm, moist cake.
  • Enhance with Coconut Topping: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the cake to amplify the tropical essence and add a delightful crunch to each bite.
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Juicy Pineapple Cake Recipe

Juicy Pineapple Cake Recipe


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4.9 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Tropical paradise meets sweet indulgence in this mouthwatering Pineapple Cake that promises sunshine on a plate. Fragrant pineapple slices nestled in a tender crumb create a dessert so irresistible that friends and family will beg for seconds.


Ingredients

Scale

Cake Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (250 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (100 grams) brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 can (20 ounces/567 grams) crushed pineapple in juice

Leavening and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Glaze Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup (60 grams) unsalted butter
  • ½ cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (120 milliliters) pineapple juice
  • ¼ cup (60 milliliters) heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare the baking environment by warming the oven to 350F (175C). Coat a 9×13-inch pan with butter and flour, or create a parchment paper lining to prevent sticking.
  2. Combine dry ingredients in a spacious mixing bowl, blending flour, white and brown sugars, baking soda, and salt until uniformly distributed.
  3. Incorporate eggs and vanilla extract into the dry mixture. Gently fold in crushed pineapple with its natural juice, mixing carefully to maintain a smooth, tender texture. Avoid aggressive stirring to preserve the cake’s delicate structure.
  4. Transfer the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly with a spatula. Position the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a clean toothpick into the center.
  5. While the cake bakes, craft the luxurious pineapple glaze. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then introduce sugar, pineapple juice, and cream. Stir continuously, allowing the mixture to simmer and thicken slightly.
  6. Remove the cake from the oven and let it rest briefly. Use a fork to create multiple small punctures across the surface, allowing the glaze to penetrate deeply.
  7. Drizzle the warm glaze generously over the cake, ensuring complete coverage and maximum flavor absorption.
  8. Allow the cake to cool completely, which helps the glaze set and intensifies the pineapple essence. Slice and serve, optionally garnishing with whipped cream or toasted coconut for an elegant finishing touch.

Notes

  • Prevent Overmixing: Gently combine cake ingredients to maintain a tender, light texture and avoid developing tough gluten strands that can make the cake dense.
  • Moisture Magic: The crushed pineapple adds natural sweetness and incredible moisture, ensuring the cake stays soft and delectable even days after baking.
  • Customize Your Glaze: Experiment with adding a splash of rum or coconut extract to the pineapple glaze for an exotic tropical twist that elevates the flavor profile.
  • Diet-Friendly Adaptations: Swap regular flour with gluten-free flour blend, use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar, and replace eggs with flax eggs to make this cake suitable for various dietary needs.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 270
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Jenna Stewart

Jenna Stewart

Head Chef & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-Table Cooking; Seasonal Menu Development; Visual Plating Techniques; Flavor Layering and Simple Prep Hacks.

Education

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in classic and modern techniques, global cuisines, and flavor development, combined with real-world experience in restaurant operations, business management, and industry internships.

Jenna Stewart is the inventive spirit behind many of our standout dishes at Pro of Delicious Creations. A proud graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, she built her skills mastering both classic recipes and fresh, modern twists.

Now, Jenna celebrates the beauty of seasonal, local ingredients, often sourced from her garden and nearby markets, to create recipes that are bursting with flavor yet easy to follow. When she’s not experimenting in the kitchen, Jenna loves exploring nature on hikes and discovering new treasures at local co-ops.

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