Pineapple Heaven Cake

Name: Pineapple Heaven Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained; 1 cup milk; 3 eggs; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This delightful Pineapple Heaven Cake is a tropical escape that will sweeten any occasion. Luscious layers of moist pineapple-infused cake meet creamy frosting for a dessert that is light, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a sweet treat year-round, this cake is sure to impress friends and family alike with its beautiful presentation and irresistible taste.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2025-11-28T08:05:36.318Z

This cake is inspired by my love for tropical flavors and the joy of baking for friends and family during the summer months. The combination of pineapple and creamy frosting creates a delicious harmony that is both refreshing and satisfying.

The Perfect Combination of Flavors

Pineapple Heaven Cake is an ode to tropical flavors, seamlessly blending the sweetness of fresh pineapple with the richness of cream cheese frosting. The cake's moist texture, derived from the crushed pineapple, is both refreshing and indulgent, making it ideal for warm summer days. Each bite is a burst of flavor that transports your taste buds to a sunny beach escape.

This cake's delightful flavor profile is further enhanced by the light vanilla notes, complementing the pineapple beautifully. Whether it's a festive celebration or a casual family dinner, this dessert is sure to be the talk of the table. Its versatility allows it to shine in any setting, whether served as a simple dessert or a centerpiece for special occasions.

A Celebration Throughout the Year

While Pineapple Heaven Cake makes a stunning addition to summer gatherings, its appeal transcends any particular season. The invigorating taste of pineapple combined with cream cheese frosting provides a refreshing contrast to heavier winter desserts. It is the perfect dessert to lift spirits during the holidays or to brighten up a dreary day.

Moreover, this cake is suitable for various occasions, from birthdays to anniversaries, or even a delightful treat just because. Its beautiful layers and vibrant colors make it visually appealing, ensuring it can take center stage at any dessert table. Everyone will be asking for seconds, and you might find it hard to resist slices yourself!

Baking Tips for Success

Achieving the perfect Pineapple Heaven Cake requires attention to detail and a few baking tips to ensure success. First, be sure to properly drain the crushed pineapple to avoid excess moisture that could make the cake dense. Use fresh eggs and soft butter for optimal texture, and remember to measure your flour correctly to avoid an overly dry cake.

Additionally, allowing your cakes to cool completely before frosting is essential for preventing melting or sliding. This will ensure a clean and beautiful finish. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding toasted coconut on top or incorporating some shredded coconut into the batter for added texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup milk
3 eggs
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup crushed pineapple, drained

Make sure to have all ingredients ready for a smooth preparation process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your cake:

Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture, alternating with milk and crushed pineapple until just combined.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.

Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until blended.

Add heavy cream and vanilla extract, mixing until light and fluffy.

Fold in crushed pineapple until well distributed.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter.

Spread a generous layer of frosting on top of the first cake layer.

Carefully place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Decorate with additional pineapple or coconut if desired.

Slice and enjoy your delicious Pineapple Heaven Cake!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Pineapple Heaven Cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy gatherings. To keep it fresh, cover the cake with plastic wrap or foil. For serving, allow the cake to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before slicing, ensuring the frosting is at its creamiest consistency.

For an extra touch, serve each slice of cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh fruit, such as strawberries or additional pineapple slices, makes for an attractive garnish that enhances the tropical theme. This approach not only boosts the visual appeal but also adds to the flavor experience, making each bite unforgettable.

Variations to Try

While the classic Pineapple Heaven Cake recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily experiment with different flavors and ingredients. For instance, substitute half of the crushed pineapple with mango or peach puree for a unique twist on the tropical theme. This will introduce new flavors and add a colorful touch to your cake.

Another fun variation is to create a layered version by adding additional fillings, such as a tangy lime curd or homemade pineapple jam, between the cake layers. This not only enhances the flavor profile but adds a delightful surprise to each slice. You could also experiment with different frostings, like a whipped coconut cream, to amplify the tropical experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple can be used, just make sure to finely chop and drain it well.

→ How can I store leftover cake?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.