🍰 Tropical Hawaiian Pineapple Delight Cake Recipe 🍰🍍
Take a bite of paradise with this Tropical Hawaiian Pineapple Delight Cake! This cake is a sweet, moist treat brimming with pineapple goodness and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Each slice is light, fluffy, and perfect for any special occasion or whenever you’re craving a little taste of the tropics.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For the Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat & Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt until evenly blended.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the beaten eggs, crushed pineapple (including the juice), and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
- Optional: Fold in Nuts: If you’re using nuts, gently fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts at this point for a bit of added crunch.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: While the cake is cooling, make the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Frost the Cooled Cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Optional: Garnish & Chill: For an added tropical touch, sprinkle shredded coconut over the top. Place the cake in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour before serving. This step helps the frosting set and enhances the flavor.
Helpful Tips:
- Don’t Drain the Pineapple: Using the juice from the crushed pineapple is key to keeping the cake moist and flavorful.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before making the frosting to ensure a smooth texture.
- Nuts or No Nuts: If you’re not a fan of nuts, feel free to omit them. You can also substitute with dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a different texture.
- For Extra Pineapple Flavor: Add 1/2 teaspoon of pineapple extract to the cake batter or frosting for a bolder tropical taste.
Storage & Reheating Tips:
- Store: Keep the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Slice and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Thaw: Let the frozen cake thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Reheat: Enjoy the cake chilled or bring it to room temperature. If you prefer it warm, pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a soft and gooey texture.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, just make sure to crush the pineapple and keep the juices to include in the batter. - Can I make cupcakes instead of a full cake?
Absolutely! This recipe makes around 24 cupcakes. Bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. - Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
You can reduce the granulated sugar to 1 1/2 cups if you prefer a less sweet cake. - Can I use coconut cream in the frosting?
For an extra tropical twist, replace the butter in the frosting with 1/2 cup of thick coconut cream. - What can I use instead of cream cheese for the frosting?
Try a Greek yogurt frosting (mix Greek yogurt with powdered sugar and a little vanilla) for a tangy and lighter alternative. - Can I add coconut to the batter?
Yes, stir in 1/2 cup of shredded sweetened coconut for more texture and flavor. - Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour. - How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. - Can I use other nuts besides pecans or walnuts?
Yes, chopped macadamia nuts or almonds would be delicious additions. - Can I add spices to the batter?
A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg would complement the tropical flavors well. - What if I don’t have vanilla extract?
Use almond extract or coconut extract as a substitute for a different flavor profile. - Can I add other fruits?
Chopped mango, banana, or papaya would pair beautifully with the pineapple. - Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead, frost it, and store it in the refrigerator. - Can I make a layer cake instead?
Yes, divide the batter between two 9-inch round cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Double the frosting recipe for ample coverage. - What if my frosting is too thick?
Add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out to your desired consistency. - What if my frosting is too runny?
Beat in additional powdered sugar, 1/4 cup at a time, until it thickens. - Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. - Can I use brown sugar in the frosting?
Yes, but it will create a caramel-like flavor, so only use it if you want a richer taste. - Can I add a tropical glaze?
Drizzle a pineapple glaze (pineapple juice and powdered sugar) over the frosting for added sweetness. - What can I use instead of cream cheese frosting?
Try a whipped coconut frosting (coconut cream whipped with powdered sugar) for a lighter option.
Secrets for Culinary Perfection:
- Do Not Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to avoid a dense texture.
- Juicy Pineapple: Always use the juice from the can for the perfect moisture balance.
- Extra Tang: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the cream cheese frosting for a subtle tang.
- Textured Icing: Toast the shredded coconut lightly for a crispier topping.
- Nutty Twist: Use caramelized pecans for a deeper, sweeter crunch.
- Pineapple Extract: A few drops in the batter elevate the tropical notes.
- Layering Tip: Freeze the cake for 15 minutes before frosting to avoid crumbs in your icing.
- Keep It Chilled: This cake tastes best when slightly chilled for a refreshing bite.
- Mini Desserts: Use the batter for mini loaf pans for individual servings.
- Double the Icing: For extra indulgence, double the cream cheese frosting—no one will complain! Enjoy
