Description
Hawaiian Pineapple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist, tropical-inspired dessert bursting with crushed pineapple, coconut, and a luscious cream cheese frosting. Sweet, tangy, and easy to make — it’s the perfect crowd-pleasing treat for potlucks, barbecues, or summer celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, vanilla, and crushed pineapple (with juice). Mix until fully combined — batter will be thick and moist.
- Fold in shredded coconut and nuts, if using.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely in the pan.
- Meanwhile, prepare the frosting: beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla, and continue beating until creamy and spreadable.
- Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Chill for 30 minutes before serving for best texture.
Notes
- Use pineapple in juice, not syrup, for the perfect balance of sweetness.
- For extra tropical flavor, sprinkle toasted coconut on top after frosting.
- This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian