Easiest Pineapple Cake Recipe

The Easiest Pineapple Cake Recipe That Tastes Like Paradise

Sweet memories often bloom around a classic pineapple cake that transforms ordinary afternoons into delightful celebrations.

Baking becomes magical when simple ingredients combine with minimal effort.

My grandmother’s cherished technique ensures anyone can master this delectable dessert.

Tropical flavors dance through each moist, tender slice, promising pure delight.

Perfectly balanced between tangy and sweet, this recipe welcomes bakers of all skill levels.

Warm kitchen aromas will transport you to sunny island moments.

You can create this irresistible treat in less than an hour, making every bite a joyful experience.

Variations on Easiest Pineapple Cake

  • Tropical Coconut Pineapple Cake: Replace half the all-purpose flour with coconut flour and add shredded coconut to the batter for an extra tropical flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free Pineapple Delight: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use almond flour for added moisture and texture.
  • Vegan Pineapple Paradise: Swap eggs with mashed bananas or applesauce, use dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and replace butter with coconut oil for a plant-based version.
  • Low-Sugar Pineapple Option: Reduce sugar content by using stevia or monk fruit sweetener, and incorporate crushed fresh pineapple for natural sweetness and moisture.

Pairing Suggestions for Pineapple Cake

  • Match this pineapple cake with a smooth, golden rum like Bacardi to enhance the tropical fruit undertones and create a delightful Caribbean-inspired dessert experience.
  • Serve alongside a rich, medium-roast Colombian coffee with hints of caramel and nutmeg, which perfectly complements the cake's cream cheese frosting and adds depth to each bite.
  • Pair with a cold, creamy vanilla milkshake that balances the cake's sweetness and provides a refreshing contrast to the rich cream cheese frosting and nutty crunch.

Storage Tips for Easiest Pineapple Cake

  • Store cake in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and maintain moisture.
  • Wrap cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Keep cake covered at room temperature for 1-2 days if serving soon. Place in a cake carrier or cover with a clean kitchen towel to preserve freshness.

FAQs

  • What makes this pineapple cake different from other cakes?

This cake stands out for its incredibly simple preparation method and moist texture, using basic ingredients that come together quickly without complex techniques.

  • Can I make this cake if I'm a beginner baker?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for novice bakers because it requires minimal baking skills and uses straightforward mixing and baking steps that are easy to follow.

  • Is this cake suitable for special occasions?

Yes, the cream cheese frosting and optional nut topping elevate this cake from everyday dessert to a delightful treat perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Why Easiest Pineapple Cake Is a Tropical Favorite

Savor Simplicity: Quick Pineapple Cake Delight!

  • Minimal Ingredient Magic: Gather just a few pantry staples to create a mouthwatering cake without complicated shopping or complex techniques.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Delivers a deliciously moist dessert that appeals to all ages, making it perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or casual weekend treats.
  • No-Fuss Frosting Fun: Cream cheese topping comes together smoothly with basic ingredients, adding a rich, creamy layer that elevates the entire dessert experience without requiring advanced baking skills.
  • Versatile Celebration Star: Adapts beautifully to various occasions, from casual afternoon snacks to special dessert moments, ensuring everyone gets a delightful slice of happiness.

Ingredients for Easiest Pineapple Cake

Cake Base Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: A key foundational ingredient that provides structure for the cake.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender cake texture.
  • Baking Powder: Ensures the cake rises and becomes light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide moisture to the cake.
  • Vegetable Oil: Creates a moist and tender cake texture.
  • Pineapple, Crushed Pineapple: Provides natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a rich and aromatic flavor to the cake.
Frosting Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese, Butter: Create a smooth and creamy base for the frosting.
  • Confectioners' Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps thicken the frosting.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese frosting.
  • Nuts, Chopped Nuts: Optional topping that adds crunch and extra flavor to the cake.

How to Bake Easiest Pineapple Cake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven dial to a toasty 350°F. This creates the perfect cozy environment for your cake to rise and shine.

Step 2: Mix the Magical Cake Batter

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and toss in your cake ingredients:
  • Flour
  • Sugar
  • Eggs
  • Butter
  • Pineapple chunks
  • Baking powder

Stir everything together until the mixture looks smooth and dreamy, with no lumpy surprises hiding.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Vessel

Grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and give it a quick spray of cooking oil or a light butter massage to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 4: Pour and Spread

Gently pour your cake batter into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, creating a perfect canvas for deliciousness.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and let it transform for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a gorgeous golden-brown and looks absolutely irresistible.

Step 6: Craft the Creamy Frosting

While the cake cools, whip up the cream cheese frosting:
  • Cream cheese
  • Butter
  • Vanilla extract
  • Powdered sugar

Beat these ingredients until they become a smooth, cloud-like mixture that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Step 7: Frost with Flair

Once the cake has cooled down, spread the cream cheese frosting like a pro.

Make sure every inch gets some creamy love.

Step 8: Add a Nutty Finale

Sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for an extra crunch and wow factor.

Totally optional, but totally delicious.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Let the cake sit for a few minutes to set.

Then slice, serve, and watch everyone’s eyes light up with pure joy!

Pro Tips for Moist and Flavorful Pineapple Cake

  • Opt for room-temperature ingredients to ensure a smoother, more consistent cake batter that blends effortlessly.
  • Check cake doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean with minimal crumbs.
  • Prevent over-mixing the batter to maintain a tender, light cake texture that melts in your mouth.
  • Chill the cream cheese frosting briefly before spreading to achieve a more stable and easier-to-apply consistency.
  • Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to preserve its freshness and flavor.
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Easiest Pineapple Cake Recipe

Easiest Pineapple Cake Recipe


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4.7 from 29 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Brazilian pineapple cake showcases tropical sweetness with simple ingredients and straightforward preparation. Home bakers can quickly master this delightful dessert that brings sunshine to any gathering.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (480 ml) all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 can (20 oz or 567 g) crushed pineapple (in natural juice)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup (100 g) chopped nuts
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese (softened)
  • 0.5 cups (113 g) unsalted butter
  • 1.5 cups (180 g) confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Heat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan with a light grease coating.
  2. Combine all cake ingredients in a large mixing bowl, whisking until the mixture becomes smooth and fully integrated.
  3. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, ensuring an uniform distribution.
  4. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, watching for a golden-brown surface that springs back when gently touched.
  5. While the cake bakes, craft the cream cheese frosting by blending butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until completely smooth.
  6. Gradually fold in confectioners’ sugar, stirring consistently to prevent lumps and achieve a creamy texture.
  7. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for approximately 15 minutes at room temperature.
  8. Generously spread the cream cheese frosting across the cake’s entire surface, creating an even layer.
  9. Optional: Sprinkle chopped nuts over the frosted cake for added texture and visual appeal.
  10. Allow the cake to set for an additional 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Adjust oven temperature and baking time for high-altitude locations to prevent dry or sunken cake texture.
  • Swap traditional ingredients with gluten-free flour and dairy-free cream cheese for celiac and lactose-intolerant dietary needs.
  • Room temperature ingredients blend more smoothly, creating a more consistent cake batter with better overall texture.
  • Drain pineapple chunks thoroughly to prevent excess moisture that could make the cake soggy or dense.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 325
  • Sugar: 24 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 44 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Clara Bennett

Clara Bennett

Contributing Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Development, Gluten-Free and Allergy-Friendly Recipe Creation, Culinary Storytelling and Food Journalism, Recipe Testing and Standardization, Southern Comfort Foods and Modern Twists

Education

Sullivan University – National Center for Hospitality Studies
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts

Focus: Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing, and Culinary Journalism.

Clara specialized in crafting desserts that blend classic Southern comfort with modern techniques, while developing strong writing skills to tell the story behind every dish.

Lane Community College (Certificate Program)
Certificate in Food Writing and Photography

Focus: Culinary storytelling, recipe formatting, food styling, and visual presentation.


Clara’s love of baking started young, powered by homemade pies, biscuits, and stories passed around the family table.
After earning her degree at Sullivan University and a food writing certificate at Lane Community College, she turned her passion into a craft: sharing recipes that are simple, soulful, and always full of heart.
She’s big on bold flavors, flexible ideas, and creating sweets that fit any table (yes, even if you’re gluten-free). When she’s not baking, you’ll find her wandering farmers’ markets, styling food for the next photo shoot, or working on her ever-growing recipe journal.

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