Hawaiian Pineapple Cake
A delightful tropical dessert featuring a moist cake with crushed pineapple and a creamy cream cheese frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix for a soft, airy base with a golden hue
- 20 oz crushed pineapple, undrained juicy sweetness saturates the cake
- 3 pieces eggs ensures richness and depth in each moist crumb
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil adds moisture, ensuring the cake stays tender
- 1 cup shredded coconut brings texture and hint of chewy sweetness
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional) for added crunch and nutty flavor
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances all flavors
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened providing a creamy, tangy contrast
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened for richness and smooth consistency
- 4 cups powdered sugar creating a sweet, luscious frosting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for enhanced flavor
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (if needed) to achieve the perfect spreading consistency
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, crushed pineapple (with juice), eggs, and vegetable oil. Stir gently until just combined.
- Fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Baking
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Frosting
- While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Add milk, if needed, to reach desired consistency.
Assembly
- Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Garnish with additional shredded coconut and chopped pecans, if desired.
Notes
For success, don’t overmix, ensure canned pineapple is fully mixed in with its juices, and consider making the frosting ahead of time. Overbaking can lead to dryness.