Southern Pineapple Cake Delight

This sweet and simple Southern pineapple cake has been a cherished centerpiece at our family gatherings for as long as I can remember The warm spice of nostalgia meets the juicy tang of pineapple in every tender bite making this cake as memorable as it is easy to make

I first made this cake for my grandmother’s birthday one spring and everyone kept asking for the recipe The texture and tropical flavor still brings back memories of laughter and full plates

Gather Your Ingredients

• All purpose flour: provides the structure of the cake For best results choose fresh flour with no musty smell
• Granulated sugar: levels up sweetness and helps brown the cake Look for uniform fine grains
• Large eggs: bind everything together Make sure they are at room temperature for smoothest blending
• Baking soda: encourages the cake to rise Select fresh baking soda that fizzes in water to ensure lift
• Crushed pineapple with juice: delivers signature tang and moist crumb Use high quality canned pineapple packed in juice not syrup
• Cream cheese: for the frosting adds richness and a slight tang Use full fat for the creamiest topping
• Butter: combines with cream cheese to create a fluffy frosting Allow it to soften completely
• Powdered sugar: sweetens and thickens the frosting Sift for the smoothest texture
• Vanilla: rounds out flavor in the frosting Pure vanilla extract gives the best depth

How to Make It

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to a moderate cake baking temperature usually around 350 degrees Fahrenheit Prepare a nine by thirteen inch pan by greasing thoroughly or lining with parchment for easy removal

Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl combine your all purpose flour granulated sugar eggs and baking soda Blend with a sturdy spoon or paddle until the mixture is relatively smooth and free of large lumps Try not to overmix to keep the cake tender

Incorporate the Pineapple:

Open the can of crushed pineapple and pour the fruit and all its juices directly into the mixing bowl Stir everything together until evenly moistened and you see no dry pockets This step ensures that moisture is distributed throughout the batter

Transfer and Bake:

Pour the finished batter into your prepared pan spreading gently to even it out Bake on the center rack for about thirty five to forty five minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs Begin checking at thirty minutes to avoid overbaking

Cool the Cake:

Allow the cake to cool completely in its pan at room temperature Rushing this step can cause the frosting to melt and slide off later

Prepare the Frosting:

While the cake cools beat cream cheese and softened butter together in a large bowl until light and creamy Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla blending constantly until the mixture is smooth and fluffy

Frost and Serve:

Scoop the cream cheese frosting onto the cooled cake and spread evenly with a spatula Once finished slice the cake into squares and serve to eager guests

I have brought this cake to school bake sales and church picnics for years Each time folks say it reminds them of sunny afternoons and Southern hospitality My own favorite moment was watching my little ones lick the frosting bowl clean with happy faces

Flavor Boosters

Fresh pineapple can be used in peak tropical season Chop fine and drain well swapping cup for cup with the canned During summer months add a swirl of lemon zest to the batter for brightness In winter a pinch of cinnamon complements the pineapple and makes the cake extra cozy

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled or at room temperature but not straight from the fridge to allow the frosting to shine Top slices with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for special occasions This cake is especially lovely next to a cup of black coffee or cool iced tea on a warm day

Creative Twists

Swap the cream cheese frosting for a simple dusting of powdered sugar if cream cheese is not on hand For added crunch fold in a cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter If you enjoy a coconut flavor sprinkle sweetened coconut on the frosting for a tropical twist

This cake is a slice of Southern tradition and a true family favorite Make it once and you will find yourself baking it for every gathering to come

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What adds moisture to Southern pineapple cake?

The crushed pineapple, including its juice, brings natural sweetness and keeps the cake moist after baking.

→ Can nuts or coconut be added?

Yes, chopped pecans or shredded coconut can be stirred into the batter for extra texture and flavor.

→ How should the cake be stored?

Store refrigerated in an airtight container, especially if preparing in advance or after frosting.

→ Is it necessary to cool the cake before frosting?

Yes, letting the cake cool completely prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a smooth finish.

→ Can this cake be made ahead?

Absolutely! Bake and frost the cake, then refrigerate until ready to serve for convenience and freshness.