If you’re craving a sweet, moist, and tropical dessert that brings the flavors of paradise straight to your table, look no further than Hawaiian Pineapple Cake. This cake is a perfect blend of light, fluffy cake with the sweet, tangy richness of pineapple and coconut, often topped with a creamy frosting to make it even more indulgent. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering, a special occasion, or just as a treat for yourself, this cake is sure to impress with its refreshing tropical flavors.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes Hawaiian Pineapple Cake so special? It’s the combination of the natural sweetness of pineapple, the richness of coconut, and the buttery softness of the cake itself. Pineapple adds a juicy and sweet tang, and when paired with coconut, it creates a perfect balance of tropical flavors that transport you to an island getaway. The moistness of the cake ensures that every bite is full of flavor and lightness, while the frosting adds the creamy element that ties it all together. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this cake is easy to make and full of flavor, making it a reliable go-to recipe for any occasion.
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
This cake is made with simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, with the star of the show being the pineapple. Here’s everything you’ll need:
For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or white cake mix for a lighter texture)
- 1 (15 oz) can crushed pineapple (with juice, not drained)
- 3/4 cup shredded coconut (sweetened)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter for a richer flavor)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for added texture)
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (to adjust the consistency)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your oven is at the perfect temperature for baking the cake. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and the can of crushed pineapple with its juice. Stir well until everything is fully combined, but be careful not to overmix. The pineapple juice will keep the cake moist, so it’s important not to drain it. Then fold in the shredded coconut and chopped nuts (if using) for added texture and flavor.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be sure to check the cake a few minutes before the end of the baking time, as oven temperatures can vary.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
While the cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, about 1/2 cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Once the frosting is smooth, add vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated. If the frosting is too thick, add a little milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
Step 5: Frost the Cake
Once the cake has completely cooled, spread a generous layer of frosting over the top. Be sure to cover the entire cake evenly, reaching all the edges. You can use a spatula to smooth it out. For a little extra tropical flair, sprinkle some shredded coconut on top of the frosting as a garnish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the cake into squares or rectangles, serve, and enjoy the tropical flavors! This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature, so feel free to refrigerate any leftovers to keep it fresh.
Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success
- Make It Moist: Don’t drain the pineapple juice. The juice from the canned pineapple is what keeps the cake moist and flavorful.
- Texture Variations: If you prefer a denser texture, you can replace half of the vegetable oil with melted butter. The butter will give the cake a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the tropical ingredients.
- Coconut Lovers: If you’re a big fan of coconut, you can add more shredded coconut to both the cake and the frosting. Try adding 1/2 cup more to the cake batter for extra coconut flavor.
- Add Some Spice: For a warm touch, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix. It complements the pineapple and coconut perfectly.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the frosted cake to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This helps the frosting set and makes the cake even more refreshing.
- Nut-Free Version: If you or your guests prefer not to have nuts, you can easily omit the walnuts or pecans from the cake.
How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Cake
- Serve Chilled: After refrigerating, the cake becomes even more refreshing, perfect for warm weather. The cream cheese frosting firms up nicely, giving it a rich, smooth texture.
- With a Scoop of Ice Cream: Serve a slice of this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or coconut-flavored ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- At Parties: Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or tropical-themed parties. Its tropical flavors make it a great dessert for summer gatherings.
- With Whipped Cream: If you want to lighten things up, a dollop of freshly whipped cream pairs wonderfully with the rich cream cheese frosting and adds a creamy, airy element to each bite.
Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Cooling Time: 1 hour (if refrigerating before serving)
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
This cake is rich and indulgent, but it’s also packed with tropical flavors that make it a fun treat to enjoy on occasion.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350 kcal per serving (depending on the frosting and portion size)
- Fat: 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
- Protein: 2-3 grams
- Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugar: 25-30 grams
Conclusion
Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of pineapple, coconut, and creamy frosting into one irresistible treat. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just want to indulge in a slice of tropical paradise, this cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and transport you to a sunny beach. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, it’s a perfect recipe for bakers of all skill levels. So go ahead and bake a batch, and enjoy the tropical bliss!