Pineapple Cream Cheese Cake

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Pineapple Cream Cheese Cake: A Tropical Delight

If you’re looking for a cake that’s moist, sweet, and irresistibly creamy, this Pineapple Cream Cheese Cake is the one for you. Bursting with the tropical flavor of pineapple and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a holiday, or simply craving something sweet, this cake is sure to impress.

What sets this cake apart is its simplicity. You don’t need a mixer for the batter—just a few bowls, a whisk, and a spatula. The result is a light, tender cake packed with crushed pineapple and topped with a creamy, tangy frosting. Let’s dive into the recipe and tips to make this cake absolutely perfect.

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Icing

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

Preparing the Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and crushed pineapple (including the juice). Stir the ingredients together by hand until well blended.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the cake’s texture.

Step 3: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Note: The cake may look slightly underdone because it is extremely moist. Rest assured, it will set as it cools.

Step 4: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan before adding the icing. Cooling is essential to prevent the frosting from melting.

Preparing the Cream Cheese Icing

Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together using a hand mixer or a whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Add the Vanilla

Stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 3: Incorporate the Powdered Sugar

Gradually add the powdered sugar, about 1/2 cup at a time, beating between each addition until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese icing evenly over the top using a spatula. Refrigerate the cake for about 30 minutes to set the frosting if you’re not serving it immediately. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.

Tips for Success

  1. Use Fresh Pineapple for Extra Flavor: If you want a fresher taste, you can substitute canned pineapple with finely chopped fresh pineapple. Make sure to include its juice for moisture.
  2. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of light and tender. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
  3. Chill the Icing: If your frosting feels too soft to spread, place it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to firm up before spreading it on the cake.
  4. Add a Tropical Twist: Sprinkle toasted coconut or chopped nuts like pecans on top of the icing for added flavor and texture.
  5. Serve Chilled: This cake tastes even better when served cold. Refrigerate for a few hours before serving for the best flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cake a day ahead. Bake and cool the cake, then store it covered at room temperature. Prepare the icing and frost the cake before serving or refrigerate the frosted cake until needed.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

While low-fat cream cheese can be used, it may result in a slightly less rich frosting. For the best flavor and texture, stick with full-fat cream cheese.

How long does this cake last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it (unfrosted) for up to 2 months.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix. Ensure the mix contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you’re out of cream cheese, mascarpone can be used as a substitute. It will give a slightly sweeter and creamier frosting.

With its luscious pineapple flavor and creamy frosting, this Pineapple Cream Cheese Cake is a delightful dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy every bite!