Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

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🍍 Hawaiian Pineapple Cake: A Tropical Delight 🍰

🌺 Introduction:

Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a moist, sweet, and vibrant dessert that brings the spirit of the islands right to your kitchen. Infused with crushed pineapple, this cake is known for its rich texture, tropical flavor, and nostalgic feel. Whether served plain, with a cream cheese frosting, or a dusting of coconut flakes, it’s perfect for family gatherings, summer picnics, or just a sunny bite of happiness on any day.

🍍 Ingredients:

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch of salt
  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)

Optional Topping (Classic Cream Cheese Frosting):

  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • Shredded coconut for garnish (optional)

🧁 Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
    In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Add the sugar and vanilla and mix until combined.
  3. Add Pineapple:
    Stir in the crushed pineapple with juice. Do not drain it — the juice keeps the cake moist and flavorful.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
    In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually stir into the wet mixture until fully combined.
  5. Pour and Bake:
    Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Cool Completely:
    Let the cake cool in the pan before frosting or slicing.

🥄 Frosting Method (Optional):

  1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fluffy.
  3. Stir in vanilla.
  4. Spread over cooled cake.
  5. Sprinkle chopped nuts and/or shredded coconut for a tropical finish.

📜 History of Hawaiian Pineapple Cake:

Though not native to Hawaii, pineapples became synonymous with Hawaiian culture in the 20th century due to the booming pineapple industry led by companies like Dole. This cake emerged during the mid-century as a symbol of hospitality, often served at potlucks and luau-style gatherings. Its simplicity, moistness, and unique tropical flavor quickly made it a favorite across the U.S., especially in the South.

💪 Health Benefits:

  • Pineapple: High in vitamin C, bromelain (aids digestion), and antioxidants.
  • Eggs: A good source of protein and essential amino acids.
  • Optional Nuts: Provide healthy fats and add a crunchy contrast.

Note: Due to sugar and flour, it’s best enjoyed in moderation.

🔬 Formation (How the Cake Comes Together):

  • The pineapple’s juice acts as both moisture and sweetener.
  • Baking soda reacts with the acidic pineapple to help the cake rise.
  • Eggs bind everything, while sugar caramelizes slightly for a golden finish.
  • Frosting adds a creamy, tangy complement to the naturally sweet crumb.

❤️ Lovers of the Cake:

This cake is beloved by:

  • Tropical flavor seekers
  • Home bakers looking for easy one-bowl desserts
  • Those who enjoy nostalgic, vintage-style recipes
  • Families at picnics, potlucks, or summer reunions

🍽️ Nutrition Estimate (Per Slice – 1/12 cake, without frosting):

  • Calories: ~270
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Sugars: 27g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Vitamin C from pineapple: ~12% DV

Frosting adds approximately 150–200 extra calories per serving.

✅ Conclusion:

The Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is more than just dessert — it’s a celebration of sunny days, cherished memories, and the joy of simple baking. It’s as easy to make as it is to love. Moist, rich, and naturally sweet, this cake is a reminder of how just a few pantry staples can transport us to paradise.

💕 For the Lovers of This Cake:

If you adore banana bread, carrot cake, or coconut cream pie — you’ll likely fall in love with this tropical classic. Try pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel, or even serve it chilled with a pineapple glaze.

Would you like a version with coconut inside the batter? Or a printable format of this recipe?

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