Pineapple Cake
A luscious slice of Pineapple Cake can transport you to a tropical paradise with just one bite. The vibrant flavors of pineapple combined with the moist, tender crumb create an unforgettable dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving something sweet, this cake promises to be a hit.
This Pineapple Cake is not only delectable but also incredibly simple to make. With just a handful of ingredients including self-raising flour, caster sugar, and crushed pineapple, you can create a dessert that is both aromatic and satisfying. The inclusion of a delicious cream cheese frosting or a scoop of ice cream turns this cake into a delightful treat that will impress your family and guests alike. Let’s dive deeper into why you’ll want to make this enchanting dessert.
Why make this recipe
The combination of pineapple’s tropical sweetness with a light and fluffy cake provides a refreshing contrast that is simply irresistible. It’s effortless enough for a weekday dessert yet elegant enough to shine at special gatherings. The use of canned crushed pineapple not only adds moisture but also infuses the cake with natural fruit flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the other sweet components. Plus, it gives you a chance to skip some of the more involved steps of preparing fresh fruit, making this recipe a quick and straightforward choice for bakers of all levels.
Another reason to make this Pineapple Cake is its versatility. You can enjoy it plain or elevate it by adding a luscious cream cheese frosting, which complements the pineapple’s flavor perfectly. This cake can also be served warm or chilled, making it adaptable to the season and your personal preference. Whether enjoyed at room temperature on a hot summer day or warmed up in the colder months, this cake is always welcome.
How to make Pineapple Cake
To ensure your Pineapple Cake turns out light and fluffy, it’s important to follow a few simple steps. The key begins with preheating your oven to the correct temperature. This helps provide even baking as you prepare your batter. Greasing your cake tin and lining it with baking paper is essential, ensuring your cake releases flawlessly once baked.
Mixing the ingredients is another important part of the process. When combining the self-raising flour, caster sugar, and crushed pineapple, be careful not to overmix. A gentle hand should be applied here to keep the cake airy. After transferring the batter to the prepared tin, smoothing out the top ensures even baking. Timing is crucial, so keep an eye on it in the oven; you want a toothpick to come out clean from the center to confirm it’s perfectly baked.
Once baked, allow the cake to cool briefly in the tin before carefully transferring it to a cooling rack. This step prevents any tearing and maintains the integrity of the cake. Finally, either serve it warm for a delightful treat or allow it to cool completely and store it for later enjoyment, all while keeping its flavors intact in an airtight container.
Ingredients
- 250g self-raising flour
- 200g caster sugar
- 450g canned crushed pineapple (with juice)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F / Gas mark 4. Grease a 20cm round springform cake tin with cooking oil and line the bottom with a circle of nonstick baking paper.
- Put all the ingredients into a large mixing bowl and mix with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until combined.
- Pour into the prepared tin and smooth the top evenly. Bake for 50–60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool (or serve warm). Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Time Breakdown
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50–60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5–15 minutes
• Servings: 8
How to serve Pineapple Cake
Serving your Pineapple Cake is part of its charm. When it comes to presentation, simplicity works wonders. A plain slice, perhaps dusted with powdered sugar, elegantly showcases the cake’s rich texture and inviting flavor. Opt for a generous dollop of cream cheese frosting for those who crave a bit more sweetness, creating a beautiful contrast against the cake’s moist crumb.
Additionally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or your favorite cream can elevate the experience, offering a creamy element that complements the fruity notes of pineapple. For an impressive finish, garnish each plate with a slice of fresh pineapple or a sprig of mint. This not only adds a touch of color but enhances the tropical vibe of your dessert.
How to store Pineapple Cake
To keep your Pineapple Cake fresh, it’s best to store it in an airtight container. This will help maintain its moisture and prevent it from drying out. If properly stored, the cake can last for up to three days at room temperature. If you live in a particularly warm climate, refrigeration may be necessary to ensure its longevity.
If you find that you have some leftovers, consider wrapping the cake tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in the fridge. For longer storage, this cake freezes quite well. Slice it into pieces, wrap them in freezer-safe packaging, and store in the freezer for up to three months. When you want to enjoy a slice again, simply allow it to thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before indulging.
Tips to make Pineapple Cake
To achieve the best possible outcome with your Pineapple Cake, consider using room temperature ingredients. This simple step helps promote better mixing and a more uniform texture throughout the cake. Be mindful of the mixing process; overmixing can lead to a denser cake, which deviates from the desired lightness.
Choosing high-quality canned crushed pineapple can also make a significant difference in flavor and texture. The quality of the fruit plays an integral role in the overall taste of the cake. Should you prefer a more intense pineapple flavor, you can increase the amount of crushed pineapple, keeping in mind that you must adjust the dry ingredients accordingly to maintain the right balance of wet and dry elements in your batter.
Variation
No major variations, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
• Calories: 290 kcal
• Protein: 2 g
• Carbohydrates: 60 g
• Fat: 1 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 24 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but be sure to finely chop it and adjust the moisture level accordingly by removing excess juice.
Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend that includes a leavening agent.
Q: How can I enhance the cake’s flavor?
A: You can add a teaspoon of coconut extract or vanilla extract to the batter for an added depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the pineapple.
Pineapple Cake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 250 g self-raising flour
- 200 g caster sugar
- 450 g canned crushed pineapple (with juice) Use high-quality canned crushed pineapple for best flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F / Gas mark 4.
- Grease a 20cm round springform cake tin with cooking oil and line the bottom with a circle of nonstick baking paper.
Mixing
- Put all the ingredients into a large mixing bowl and mix with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until combined, taking care not to overmix.
Baking
- Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and smooth the top evenly.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool (or serve warm).
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
