Nothing brings back memories of summer and family gatherings quite like the sweet aroma of a freshly baked pineapple cake. This simple, yet incredibly delicious dessert is reminiscent of those carefree days spent in grandma’s kitchen. With its moist, tender crumb and the tropical burst of pineapple flavor, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort and no special skills—just one bowl and a handful of ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)
½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3-4 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, salt, and the entire can of crushed pineapple with its juice. Stir until all ingredients are well combined, ensuring the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
Optional Nuts: If you prefer a bit of crunch in your cake, fold in the chopped nuts of your choice (pecans or walnuts work well).
2. Bake the Cake:
Pour the Batter: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool Slightly: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. The cake should still be warm when you frost it, but not too hot.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
Beat the Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy.
Add Vanilla and Sugar: Gradually add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Adjust the sugar to your desired sweetness.
4. Frost the Cake:
Spread the Frosting: While the cake is still warm, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. The warmth of the cake will slightly melt the frosting, allowing it to seep into the cake and create a deliciously moist texture.
Optional Garnish: For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped nuts or sweetened coconut flakes over the frosting.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve: Slice the cake into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk.
Variations
Tropical Twist:
Add ½ cup sweetened coconut flakes to the batter for an extra tropical flavor.
Garnish the frosted cake with toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.
Citrus Zest:
For a citrusy kick, add the zest of one lemon or lime to the cake batter.
Nut-Free Option:
Omit the nuts entirely if you prefer a smoother texture or are catering to nut allergies.
Conclusion
This Easiest Pineapple Cake is a nostalgic treat that brings the flavors of summer right into your kitchen. Its simple preparation, combined with its delightful taste and moist texture, makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a potluck or simply want to indulge in a sweet, comforting dessert, this pineapple cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
So next time you’re craving something sweet, remember this recipe—it’s quick, easy, and full of flavor. The moist pineapple cake combined with the creamy, tangy frosting is a match made in dessert heaven. Enjoy every bite as it takes you on a delicious trip down memory lane!
