Introduction
Transform everyday ingredients into a slice of sunshine with this unbelievably moist and flavorful pineapple cake! Perfect for busy weeknights or impressive weekend gatherings, this recipe prioritizes speed and simplicity without compromising on taste. Get ready to wow your taste buds (and your friends!) with minimal effort.
Why This Works
This recipe works because it balances the sweetness of pineapple with a subtle tang, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. The use of crushed pineapple adds incredible moisture, ensuring a tender crumb every time. Plus, the simple method means you can whip up this delicious cake in a flash – ideal for those short on time!
Key Ingredients
- 🍍 2 cups crushed pineapple, drained
- 🥚 3 large eggs
- ☕ 1 cup vegetable oil
- 🥛 1 cup milk
- 砂糖 2 cups granulated sugar
- 🍋 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 🌾 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 🥄 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 🧂 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ⅛ tsp salt
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3️⃣ In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4️⃣ Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix!
5️⃣ Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple.
6️⃣ Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
7️⃣ Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8️⃣ Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Handy Tips
- For extra moist cake, add a tablespoon of pineapple juice to the batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to a tough cake.
- Using room temperature ingredients helps create a smoother batter.
Heat Control
Baking at 350°F (175°C) ensures even cooking and prevents burning. Check the cakes at 30 minutes; if they start browning too quickly, loosely tent with foil.
Crunch Factor
This recipe focuses on a soft, moist crumb. For a slightly crispier top, broil the cakes for the last minute of baking time, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Use a stand mixer for easier mixing, especially if you’re making a double batch.
- For an intensified pineapple flavor, add a teaspoon of pineapple extract along with the vanilla.
- Add a ½ cup of shredded coconut to the batter for extra texture and tropical flavor.
Storage Tips
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This cake is perfect for gifting! Wrap individual slices in cellophane and tie with ribbon, or bake it in a smaller pan and present it in a pretty cake carrier.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Coconut Cream Frosting: Top with a creamy coconut frosting for an extra tropical twist.
🌟 Spiced Pineapple: Add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
🌟 Cream Cheese Frosting: A classic cream cheese frosting complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
🌟 Lime Zest: Add the zest of one lime to the batter for a bright, citrusy note.
Troubleshooting
- Cake is dry: You may have overbaked it. Next time, check for doneness at 30 minutes.
- Cake is dense: You may have overmixed the batter. Try mixing until just combined next time.
- Cake sunk in the middle: The oven temperature may have been too low, or the batter wasn’t evenly distributed.
FAQ
- Can I use canned pineapple chunks instead of crushed? Yes, but be sure to drain them well and chop them into smaller pieces before adding them to the batter.
- Can I freeze this cake? Yes, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.
- What kind of frosting goes best with this cake? A cream cheese frosting, coconut cream frosting, or even a simple glaze are all delicious options.
- How many servings does this recipe make? This recipe makes about 12 servings.
- Can I make this cake in a bundt pan? Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a bundt pan. Adjust baking time as needed.
Conclusion
This quick and easy pineapple cake is sure to become a new family favorite! Its moist texture and vibrant tropical flavor will transport you to paradise with every bite. Don’t forget to share your baking creations and tag us on social media! Happy baking!
30-Minute Tropical Escape: Pineapple Cake Bliss
A light and fluffy pineapple cake that transports you to a tropical paradise with every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 175u00b0C (350u00b0F) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and crushed pineapple.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with coconut milk, until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips
- For added tropical flavor, top the cake with fresh pineapple slices and toasted coconut flakes.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful finish.