ππ§π° Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake β Rich, Moist & Tropical Favorite
π΄ Introduction
If you love classic pound cake but crave a little tropical twist, this Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake is about to become your new favorite. Itβs rich and buttery like a traditional pound cake, but the addition of cream cheese gives it a velvety texture, while crushed pineapple adds natural sweetness and incredible moisture.
The result? A dense yet tender cake with a smooth crumb, golden crust, and bursts of sweet pineapple in every bite. Itβs perfect for family gatherings, holidays, afternoon tea, or whenever you want a comforting homemade dessert that feels a little special.
π§Ύ Ingredients
π§ For the Cake:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained
π Optional Pineapple Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2β3 tablespoons pineapple juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
π©βπ³ Instructions
1οΈβ£ Prepare
- Preheat oven to 325Β°F (165Β°C).
- Grease and flour a loaf pan (or line with parchment paper).
2οΈβ£ Cream the Base
- In a large bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy (about 2β3 minutes).
- Gradually add sugar and continue beating until light and creamy.
3οΈβ£ Add Eggs & Vanilla
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
4οΈβ£ Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5οΈβ£ Mix & Fold
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix just until combined.
- Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple. Do not overmix.
6οΈβ£ Bake
- Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 55β70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7οΈβ£ Optional Glaze
- Whisk powdered sugar, pineapple juice, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle over cooled cake.
π° Baking Methods & Tips
β Room Temperature Ingredients β This ensures a smooth batter and even texture.
β Drain Pineapple Well β Too much juice can make the cake dense or soggy.
β Do Not Overmix β Overmixing develops gluten and can make the cake tough.
β Low & Slow Baking β Pound cakes bake best at a moderate temperature for even cooking.
β Bundt Option β Double the recipe and bake in a bundt pan for a beautiful presentation.
π History of Pound Cake
Traditional pound cake dates back to 18th-century Europe and was named for its simple formula: one pound each of flour, butter, sugar, and eggs. Over time, bakers adapted the recipe, adding ingredients like cream cheese for richness and fruit for flavor.
The pineapple twist became popular in the mid-20th century when canned pineapple became widely available. Tropical flavors quickly found their way into classic American desserts, creating beloved recipes like this one.
π Formation & Texture
This cake forms a:
β¨ Golden crust on the outside
β¨ Dense but tender interior
β¨ Smooth, creamy crumb
β¨ Moist structure from pineapple
β¨ Buttery richness balanced with fruity brightness
It slices beautifully and holds its shape, making it perfect for serving with tea or coffee.
β€οΈ Why Cake Lovers Adore This Recipe
- Cream cheese lovers enjoy the extra richness
- Tropical flavor fans love the pineapple sweetness
- Pound cake purists appreciate its classic structure
- Home bakers love how simple and reliable it is
Serve it: π With whipped cream
π With fresh pineapple slices
π Lightly toasted with butter
π With vanilla ice cream
π Conclusion
Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake is the perfect blend of comfort and tropical charm. Itβs rich without being heavy, sweet without being overpowering, and simple enough for everyday bakingβyet elegant enough for special occasions.
One slice is never enough⦠and it tastes even better the next day.
Would you like a coconut version next? π₯₯π°