Name: Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-487833H5M10S
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: For the Cake:; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained; 1/2 cup buttermilk; For the Frosting:; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2-3 tablespoons pineapple juice (optional); For Garnish:; Pineapple slices or chunks; Maraschino cherries (optional); Toasted coconut flakes (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a tropical delight that combines tender, moist cake layers with sweet pineapple and creamy frosting. Its light, fluffy texture and juicy pineapple flavor make it perfect for celebrations, dessert tables, or just a sweet treat after dinner. The cake’s tropical charm is balanced by a smooth, buttery frosting that melts in your mouth, creating a dessert experience that feels like a little slice of paradise with every bite. This cake is easy to make, visually stunning, and guaranteed to impress anyone who tries it.

Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake Recipe

Ingredients

For the Cake:

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

For the Frosting:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons pineapple juice (optional, for extra flavor)

For Garnish:

Pineapple slices or chunks
Maraschino cherries (optional)
Toasted coconut flakes (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Incorporate Pineapple and Buttermilk: Mix in the drained crushed pineapple. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Prepare the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until fully combined. Stir in vanilla extract and pineapple juice (if using) until smooth and fluffy.
Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly. Garnish with pineapple slices, maraschino cherries, and toasted coconut flakes if desired.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve this tropical delight to your family and friends. The cake is best enjoyed at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Add Coconut: Fold 1/2 cup of shredded coconut into the cake batter for extra tropical flavor.
Make It Upside-Down: Line the cake pan with pineapple rings and brown sugar before pouring in the batter for a pineapple upside-down version.
Tropical Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped mango or papaya to the batter for a fruity variation.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing: The unfrosted cake layers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and frost before serving.
Reheating: This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature; reheating is not necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, canned crushed pineapple works perfectly. Make sure to drain it well to prevent excess moisture in the cake.

2. Can I make this cake in one pan?

Yes, you can bake it in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust the baking time to 35-40 minutes and check for doneness with a toothpick.

3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead, wrap it tightly, and store it at room temperature. Frost it just before serving for the freshest taste.

4. Can I use a different frosting?

You can use whipped cream frosting or a simple buttercream frosting if you prefer a lighter option.

5. How do I make the cake extra moist?

Adding pineapple and buttermilk ensures a moist texture. Be careful not to overbake to maintain juiciness.

6. Can I use a stand mixer or hand mixer?

Yes, both work well. Cream the butter and sugar first, then incorporate other ingredients gradually.

7. Can I make cupcakes instead of a cake?

Yes, this batter works great for cupcakes. Bake for 18-22 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

8. How should I store leftover frosted cake?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow to sit at room temperature before serving.

9. Can I add nuts to the cake?

Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts can be folded into the batter for a crunchy texture.

10. Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce the sugar slightly in the cake or frosting, but keep in mind it may affect the sweetness and texture.

Conclusion

Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a tropical indulgence that combines moist, tender cake layers with sweet pineapple and luscious frosting. Its vibrant flavors and delicate texture make it perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet treat to brighten your day. Easy to make and versatile, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of paradise to any occasion.