Pineapple Cake

This simple pineapple cake is truly a must-make for all your spring and summer gatherings. Its ultra-moist texture, perfect sweetness, and vibrant pineapple flavor make it an ideal dessert for celebrations, picnics, or family dinners. The cake’s delightful aroma and golden color are sure to impress your guests and brighten up any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This pineapple cake requires simple steps and common ingredients, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Deliciously Moist: Thanks to the fresh pineapple and sour cream, every bite is bursting with moisture and flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a delightful dessert or a sweet treat at brunch; this cake fits any occasion.
• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of pineapple, lime zest, and vanilla creates a refreshing taste that’s perfect for warmer weather.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: With its bright flavors and beautiful presentation, this cake is sure to be a hit with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will help you create the best pineapple cake possible. Having everything ready ensures a smooth baking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Stand mixer or electric beater
• Spring-form cake pan (9 inches)
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Stand mixer or electric beater: Makes beating eggs and sugar quick and easy for a fluffy batter.
• Spring-form cake pan: Allows for easy removal of the cake, ensuring it retains its shape without crumbling.
• Spatula: Essential for scraping down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients evenly.

Ingredients

This simple pineapple cake is truly a must-make for all your spring and summer gatherings. It’s ultra-moist, perfectly sweet, and packed with all the goodness and brightness of pineapples!

Ingredients:
– 15 oz (425 grams) Fresh pineapple, peeled and cored (it’s half a pineapple, or sub with 20-oz canned pineapple in juice).
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 ¼ cup (125 grams) sugar
– ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
– 1 cup (240 grams) sour cream (or Greek yogurt), at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 lime, juice and zest (or lemon)
– 2 ¼ cup (260 grams) all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoon baking powder
– ⅛ teaspoon fine salt

How to Make Pineapple Cake

Step 1: Prep the Pineapple

1. Core and peel half a pineapple. Cut it in half again.
2. Dice one half into small pieces and slice the other half into thin rounds.
3. Alternatively, drain a 20-oz can of pineapple in juice if using canned.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 355°F/180°C.
2. Place a rack in the middle position.
3. Line the bottom of a spring-form cake pan (diameter 23 cm/9 inches) with parchment paper.
4. Generously grease the sides and bottom of the pan with butter and flour, shaking out excess flour.

Step 3: Make the Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together eggs and sugar using a stand mixer or electric beater for about 3-4 minutes until pale and fluffy.
2. Reduce speed; gradually add vegetable oil, sour cream, vanilla extract, and lime juice/zest until smooth.
3. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and fine salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing gently with a spatula until just combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Transfer half of the batter into the prepared cake pan. Level it out with a spatula or spoon.
2. Top with diced pineapple pieces evenly across the batter.
3. Pour in the remaining batter on top, leveling once more.
4. Gently arrange sliced pineapple over the top using light pressure.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

1. Bake in preheated oven for about 40 minutes.
2. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if clean, it’s ready! If not, bake an additional five minutes before checking again.

Step 6: Cool Down & Serve

1. Once baked, transfer immediately to a cooling rack for about ten minutes.
2. Carefully remove from pan; place on serving plate.
3. Dust with powdered sugar or brush with warm honey or apricot jam for added glossiness before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade pineapple cake!

How to Serve Pineapple Cake

Serving pineapple cake can elevate any gathering, making it a delightful centerpiece. With its bright flavors and moist texture, this cake pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

• Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
• Citrus Slices: Orange and lemon slices can enhance the tropical vibe while offering a zesty kick.

Add Whipped Cream

• Freshly Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream brings a creamy texture that complements the moistness of the cake beautifully.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts into the warm cake, creating a delicious combination of flavors and temperatures.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Caramel or Fruit Sauce: A drizzle of caramel or homemade fruit sauce can add an indulgent touch that pairs perfectly with pineapple.

Garnish with Mint

• Fresh Mint Leaves: Adding mint leaves not only enhances presentation but also offers a refreshing flavor that balances the richness of the cake.

How to Perfect Pineapple Cake

To achieve the best pineapple cake, attention to detail during preparation is essential. Here are some tips for perfecting your cake:

• Bold Choice of Pineapple: Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor, but canned options work well too—just make sure they’re in juice, not syrup.
• Bold Temperature Control: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature; this helps create a smooth batter and even baking.
• Bold Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing your batter; gently fold in dry ingredients to keep your cake light and fluffy.
• Bold Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking time; ovens vary. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time.
• Bold Cooling Method: Allow the cake to cool properly before serving. This helps set its structure and enhances flavor.
• Bold Decorative Finish: For an appealing finish, dust with powdered sugar or brush lightly with warm honey for added shine.

Best Side Dishes for Pineapple Cake

Pairing side dishes with pineapple cake can create a balanced meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad featuring greens like arugula or spinach dressed in citrus vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with herbs can provide savory contrast alongside sweet desserts.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds earthy flavors that complement pineapple’s sweetness beautifully.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs makes for a pleasant side that doesn’t overpower the dessert.
5. Quinoa Salad: A chilled quinoa salad loaded with veggies offers a nutritious complement to sweet treats like pineapple cake.
6. Savory Bread Rolls: Soft, warm bread rolls serve as a comforting addition that balances out dessert’s sweetness nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking a pineapple cake, it’s easy to overlook some crucial steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold eggs or sour cream can lead to a dense cake. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a tough texture. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy cake.
• Not Measuring Flour Accurately: Too much flour can make the cake dry. Use a kitchen scale or spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off.
• Ignoring Oven Temperatures: Every oven is different, and an incorrect temperature can ruin your cake. Always preheat and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Neglecting to Prepare the Pan Properly: Failing to grease or line the pan can cause sticking. Use parchment paper and grease the sides generously for easy removal.

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover pineapple cake in an airtight container.
• item It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Pineapple Cake

• item Wrap slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• item The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Pineapple Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices in 20-30 second intervals until warm, being cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Pineapple Cake so moist?

The combination of sour cream and fresh pineapple contributes to its moisture, creating a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, using canned pineapple is perfectly fine! Just drain it well before adding it to your batter.

How do I customize my Pineapple Cake?

You can add coconut flakes, nuts, or even cream cheese frosting for added flavor and texture variations.

How long does Pineapple Cake last?

When stored properly, this delicious pineapple cake lasts about 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup for similar results.

Conclusion

This simple pineapple cake is perfect for any spring or summer gathering. Its moist texture, vibrant flavors, and customization options make it an ideal dessert. Whether you enjoy it as is or with added toppings, this recipe is sure to impress!

---

Desserts & Sweets

SEO Information

SEO Title: Delightful Pineapple Cake Recipe You Must Try!

Meta Description: Enjoy this moist Pineapple Cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and deliciously sweet—try it today!

Synonyms/Keywords: