If you’re ready to treat yourself to a slice of tropical bliss, the Pineapple Heaven Cake Recipe is your next must-bake delight. This cake balances moist, tender crumb with bursts of juicy pineapple, all wrapped up in a glaze that’s just the right amount of sweet and tangy. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a sunny day in every bite, perfect for sharing at family gatherings or enjoying during a cozy afternoon tea. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.
Pineapple Heaven Cake Recipe: Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great cake starts with simple, quality ingredients that play a vital role in building its flavor, texture, and appearance. For this Pineapple Heaven Cake Recipe, each component is carefully chosen to create that perfect balance of moistness and sweetness with a tropical twist.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and soft crumb essential for a tender cake.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Gives the cake a light, airy rise without being too dense.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture while helping with the cake’s tender texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right and contributes to a lovely golden crust.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together while adding moisture and richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings a warm, aromatic depth to the flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Keeps the cake moist and tender while adding a slight tang that complements the pineapple.
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained: The star of the cake, providing juicy bursts of tropical flavor and natural sweetness.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: For the glaze, providing a smooth and sweet finishing touch.
- 2 tbsp pineapple juice: Adds natural pineapple flavor and helps create the perfect glaze consistency.
How to Make Pineapple Heaven Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan thoroughly to ensure your cake will come out clean and intact, which is key for that beautiful presentation.
Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and seasoning, which will help your cake rise beautifully and taste balanced.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential because it incorporates air into the batter, leading to a tender and airy cake.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with that classic sweet aroma you know and love in cakes.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with sour cream. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing gently until just combined to ensure a tender cake without overworking the batter.
Step 6: Fold in the Pineapple
Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple. Folding carefully preserves the pineapple’s juicy texture without deflating the batter, which helps retain moisture and bursts of tropical flavor.
Step 7: Bake Your Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This signals that your cake is perfectly baked through and ready to enjoy.
Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Meanwhile, whisk powdered sugar with pineapple juice to make a smooth glaze. Once the cake is fully cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top for that final sweet and tangy touch that defines the Pineapple Heaven Cake Recipe.
How to Serve Pineapple Heaven Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up the presentation and flavor, fresh pineapple slices or toasted coconut flakes make delightful garnishes. They add extra texture and visual appeal, turning every slice into a tropical masterpiece.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more elegant dessert option, fresh berries or a tropical fruit salad complement the pineapple notes wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your loaf into party-ready slices by serving it on a bright, colorful plate with edible flowers or mint leaves. For brunches, cut thick slices and serve alongside café au lait to complete the cozy vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Pineapple Heaven Cake Recipe keeps well when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Beyond that, popping it in the fridge will extend freshness for up to five days without drying it out.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep its wonderful flavor and texture for up to three months when thawed properly in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a low oven (300°F) wrapped in foil to revive that freshly baked feel. Just make sure not to overheat so the cake doesn’t dry out.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned crushed pineapple?
Absolutely! Just be sure to drain it well so the extra moisture doesn’t affect the cake’s texture. Fresh pineapple can add an even brighter flavor, making the Pineapple Heaven Cake Recipe taste extra fresh and vibrant.
Is there an alternative to sour cream in the recipe?
You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. It will maintain the moist texture and add a pleasant tang that complements the pineapple beautifully.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, you can make this cake gluten-free. Just be sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
How long does the cake last once glazed?
Once glazed, it’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. Keep it refrigerated to preserve the glaze and prevent spoilage, bringing it back to room temperature before serving.
What type of pan works best for this recipe?
A standard loaf pan is perfect to achieve the classic shape and bake the Pineapple Heaven Cake Recipe evenly. Using a pan that’s too shallow or wide may affect baking time and texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a cake that brings sunshine to any table, the Pineapple Heaven Cake Recipe is a guaranteed winner. Its luscious pineapple flavor, tender crumb, and dreamy glaze make it a joy to bake and share. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience a little slice of heaven baked right in your own kitchen!
Print
Pineapple Heaven Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Pineapple Heaven Cake is a moist and flavorful loaf cake featuring crushed pineapple folded into a tender buttery batter. Topped with a sweet pineapple glaze, this delightful cake balances fruity freshness with a soft crumb, perfect for afternoon tea or dessert.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp pineapple juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan well to prevent the cake from sticking during baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until combined. Set aside for later use.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color, which creates a tender cake texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, beating well after each addition to maintain an emulsified batter. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Flour and Sour Cream: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Fold in Pineapple: Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple with a spatula, being careful not to overmix so the cake remains light and airy.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, remove it from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
- Prepare and Apply Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and pineapple juice until smooth. Drizzle this glaze evenly over the cooled cake for a sweet, tangy finish.
Notes
- Ensure the crushed pineapple is well drained to prevent excess moisture in the batter.
- Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to keep the cake tender.
- The glaze can be adjusted in thickness by adding more powdered sugar or pineapple juice as needed.
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
