Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake stands out for its simplicity and vibrant flavor. Incorporating crushed pineapple directly into the batter ensures a moist texture and a rich, fruity taste throughout. The addition of a light pineapple glaze enhances its sweetness without overwhelming the palate. This cake is versatile enough for both casual afternoons and special occasions, offering a refreshing alternative to more traditional desserts.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine with Sour Cream and Dry Mixture: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in Pineapple: Gently fold the drained crushed pineapple into the batter until evenly distributed.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and pineapple juice until smooth.
- Glaze the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it cascade down the sides.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields one loaf, approximately 8-10 slices.
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes
Variations
- Coconut Twist: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the batter for an extra layer of tropical flavor.
- Nutty Addition: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped macadamia nuts or walnuts to introduce a delightful crunch.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon or lime zest into the batter to enhance the citrusy notes.
- Spiced Flavor: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or ginger for a warm, spiced undertone.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For extended freshness, refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezing: Wrap the cake (whole or sliced) tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm, microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds. If reheating from frozen, allow slices to thaw at room temperature before microwaving.
FAQs
What type of pineapple should I use for this cake?
Canned crushed pineapple works best for this recipe. Ensure it’s well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the batter.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Finely chop the pineapple and drain any excess juice before adding to the batter.
Is there a substitute for sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream in equal amounts.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
How do I prevent the cake from becoming too dense?
Ensure not to overmix the batter. Mix until the ingredients are just combined to maintain a light texture.
What’s the best way to glaze the cake?
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake using a spoon, allowing it to flow naturally over the edges for an appealing finish.
Can I add other fruits to this cake?
While pineapple is the star, you can experiment by adding small amounts of other fruits like finely chopped mango or papaya. Ensure they are well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
How can I tell when the cake is done
Print
Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake
- Total Time: ~1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8-10 slices)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the tropical flavors of this Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake, a moist and flavorful loaf cake made with crushed pineapple and topped with a light pineapple glaze. Perfect for gatherings, tea time, or whenever you crave a sweet escape, this easy-to-make pineapple cake will bring sunshine to every bite!
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained
- Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in Pineapple:
- Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple until evenly distributed.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smooth the top, and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and pineapple juice until smooth.
- Glaze the Cake:
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, letting it naturally cascade down the sides.
Notes
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds .
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
