🍍 Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake 🍰 is the tropical escape we all need from time to time, right? This cake is so light, fluffy, and moist, it feels like you’re taking a bite straight out of a pineapple-scented breeze on a sunny island. The combo of sweet crushed pineapple with a tangy glaze is what truly makes this cake shine. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, brunch, or just treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser—or a perfect little moment of indulgence just for you!
I made this for a summer potluck once, and let’s just say it was the first dessert to disappear. The tropical flavor paired with the light sweetness from the pineapple glaze just keeps you coming back for “one more slice.” Now, let’s get baking!
Ingredients:
- Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour 🍞
- 1 teaspoon baking powder ⏲️
- ½ teaspoon salt 🧂
- Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
- 1 cup granulated sugar 🍬
- 2 large eggs 🥚
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌼
- ½ cup sour cream 🥛
- Pineapple Goodness:
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained 🍍
- For the Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar 🍬
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice 🍍
Directions:
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan to prevent sticking. 🏠
2️⃣ Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. 🍽️
3️⃣ Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until it’s light and fluffy—this is key to a fluffy cake! 🎂
4️⃣ Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is well incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for that sweet, fragrant aroma. 🍦
5️⃣ Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix! 🔄
6️⃣ Fold in the Pineapple: Gently fold the drained crushed pineapple into the batter, ensuring it’s evenly distributed without overmixing. 🍍
7️⃣ Pour into the Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. 🥄
8️⃣ Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden on top and smell amazing! ⏳
9️⃣ Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. 🌬️
🔟 Make the Glaze: While the cake cools, whisk together the powdered sugar and pineapple juice in a small bowl to create a glaze. Once the cake is fully cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top for that extra pop of pineapple flavor. 🍰
Serving & Storing:
- Servings: Makes about 8 slices, perfect for sharing (or not!).
- Storage: This cake stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It can also be refrigerated for longer storage.
Pro Tips:
- Pineapple Love: For even more pineapple flavor, don’t drain the pineapple too thoroughly—leave a little juice for extra moisture!
- Optional Toppings: If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts on top after glazing for added texture.
- Pan Choice: If you don’t have a loaf pan, this cake works just as well in a round or square cake pan—just adjust the baking time and keep an eye on it.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to dice it finely and drain any excess liquid so the cake doesn’t get too wet.
Q: Can I substitute the sour cream?
Yes, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a similar texture and tang.
Q: How can I make this cake dairy-free?
Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative and use a plant-based yogurt in place of the sour cream. It’ll still be delicious!
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts:
This Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is exactly what you need when you’re craving something tropical and sweet. It’s light, moist, and packed with pineapple flavor, making it perfect for any occasion—from sunny picnics to cozy nights at home. With its fluffy texture and the drizzle of pineapple glaze, it’s a little slice of paradise in every bite! 🍍🌞