Description
This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a moist and flavorful tropical dessert featuring crushed pineapple, chopped walnuts, and shredded coconut, topped with a creamy and tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for gatherings and make-ahead occasions, this easy sheet cake combines classic flavors with a luscious texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional)
Frosting Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to ensure the cake does not stick.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients until they are evenly distributed.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and the entire can of crushed pineapple with its juice into the dry mixture. Mix gently until all ingredients are fully combined, taking care not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Fold in Nuts and Coconut: If using, fold in the chopped walnuts and shredded sweetened coconut evenly into the batter to add texture and flavor.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the baking dish before frosting.
- Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating continuously until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. For an extra touch, consider sprinkling toasted coconut on top.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the frosted cake until ready to serve to let the flavors meld and the frosting set for best texture.
Notes
- The cake becomes moister as it sits, making it ideal for preparing a day ahead.
- Omit walnuts and coconut for a simpler version.
- Toasted coconut sprinkled on top adds great texture and enhances the flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
