Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk (whole milk works best)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice for later use)
For the Pineapple Topping:
- ½ cup crushed pineapple (additional, undrained)
- ½ cup pineapple juice (from drained pineapple)
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
For Optional Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Work
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- With the mixer on low, alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture in three additions, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Fold in Pineapple:
- Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple using a spatula, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Pineapple Topping
- In a small saucepan, combine the additional crushed pineapple, reserved pineapple juice, and powdered sugar.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly (about 3-5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Once the cake has cooled, use a fork or skewer to poke small holes across the top of the cake.
- Pour the warm pineapple topping evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
Step 6: Optional Whipped Cream Topping
- In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the top of the cake before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Garnish with additional crushed pineapple, maraschino cherries, or toasted coconut for extra flair.
Enjoy your Pineapple Heaven Cake—a sweet, tropical delight that will transport you to dessert paradise! 🍍