Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe

Introduction

Indulge in the tropical flavors of Hawaii with this delicious Hawaiian Pineapple Cake recipe. This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the sweetness of pineapple and coconut, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a luau-themed party or simply craving a taste of the islands, this cake will transport your taste buds to paradise.

Ingredients

For the cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup shredded coconut

For the cream cheese frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.

3. Add the softened butter and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until well combined.

5. Fold in the crushed pineapple and shredded coconut until evenly distributed.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely before frosting.

Step 2: Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.

2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and continue beating until well incorporated.

3. Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

Step 3: Assembling the Cake

1. Once the cake has cooled, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top.

2. Optionally, you can sprinkle some shredded coconut or decorate with pineapple slices for an extra tropical touch.

3. Slice and serve this delightful Hawaiian Pineapple Cake to enjoy the tropical flavors.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding some chopped macadamia nuts to the batter or sprinkling them on top of the frosting. You can also experiment with different fruit fillings, such as mango or passion fruit, for a unique flavor combination.

Tips

Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to prevent excess moisture in the cake.
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
For a lighter texture, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with cake flour.
To make the cake even more moist, you can brush the layers with a pineapple syrup or simple syrup before frosting.
Ensure the cream cheese and butter for the frosting are at room temperature for easy mixing and a smoother texture.

Conclusion

The Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a tropical delight that will transport you to the beautiful beaches of Hawaii with every bite. The combination of pineapple, coconut, and cream cheese frosting creates a truly irresistible flavor profile. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a taste of paradise, this cake is sure to impress.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh pineapple?

Yes, you can use canned pineapple as a substitute. Just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the batter.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Frost the cake just before serving for the best taste and texture.

3. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze this cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

4. Can I use a different type of frosting?

While cream cheese frosting complements the flavors of this cake wonderfully, you can certainly use a different frosting of your choice, such as buttercream or whipped cream.