This Southern Pineapple Cake is a delightful dessert bursting with tropical flavors. Moist layers of pineapple-infused cake are paired with a luscious pineapple cream cheese frosting for a treat that’s as irresistible as it is beautiful. Perfect for celebrations or to bring a touch of sunshine to any day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Southern Pineapple Cake is a delightful fusion of rich, moist cake layers and a tangy, creamy frosting infused with tropical pineapple flavor. This dessert brings a little bit of sunshine to your table, whether it’s for a family celebration, potluck, or Sunday dinner. With its tender crumb, luscious cream cheese frosting, and optional garnishes of toasted coconut and cherries, this cake is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress with its vibrant flavors and textures!
Key Ingredients
Crushed Pineapple: Adds natural sweetness and moisture to both the cake and frosting, making every bite refreshing and tropical.
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation for a soft and fluffy cake structure. Be sure to measure accurately for best results.
Butter and Vegetable Oil: The combination of fats provides both richness and moisture, ensuring the cake is tender and flavorful.
Cream Cheese: Key to the frosting, it lends a tangy contrast to the sweet pineapple and powdered sugar.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavors of both the cake and frosting with its warm, sweet aroma.
Optional Garnishes: Fresh pineapple, maraschino cherries, and toasted coconut flakes elevate the presentation and add extra bursts of tropical flavor.
Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set the Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking for the cake layers.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Pans
Grease and Flour: Grease three 9-inch round cake pans thoroughly and lightly dust them with flour, or line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 3: Prepare the Pineapple Cake Batter
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt Stir until evenly combined.
Add Wet Ingredients: Add the following to the dry ingredients:
1/2 cup softened butter
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup undrained crushed pineapple
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Blend the Batter: Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture at medium speed until smooth and well combined. Scrape the sides of the bowl as necessary.
Step 4: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the Batter: Evenly distribute the batter among the three prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Make the Pineapple Cream Cheese Frosting
Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a mixing bowl, beat together:
1/2 cup softened butter
8 ounces softened cream cheese Beat until smooth and creamy.
Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually incorporate:
4 cups powdered sugar Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Add Flavorings: Stir in:
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup drained crushed pineapple Mix until evenly combined.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
First Layer: Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of frosting evenly over the top.
Second Layer: Add the second cake layer on top and spread another layer of frosting over it.
Third Layer: Top with the final cake layer and frost the top and sides. Use a spatula to smooth the frosting for a polished finish.
Step 7: Garnish the Cake
Optional Toppings: Garnish with:
Fresh pineapple slices
Maraschino cherries
Toasted coconut flakes These add a tropical flavor and visual appeal.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Slice and Serve: Cut the cake into slices and serve. Each piece will be rich, moist, and bursting with pineapple flavor—a true Southern delight!
Serving Suggestions
Classic Presentation: Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Tropical Spread: Pair with a fresh fruit salad of mangoes, kiwis, and pineapples to enhance the tropical theme.
Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a cold glass of sweet tea or a refreshing piña colada for the ultimate Southern-inspired treat.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Storing Leftovers: Cover the assembled cake tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors intensify as it rests!
Freezing: Wrap unfrosted cake layers individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before assembling.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the frosting and cake layers a day in advance. Store the frosting in the refrigerator and the cake layers at room temperature, tightly wrapped. Assemble just before serving.
Variations
Coconut Pineapple Cake: Stir 1/2 cup shredded coconut into the batter for a coconut-infused twist.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Inspired: Arrange pineapple rings and cherries at the bottom of the cake pans before adding the batter for a caramelized surprise.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free treat without sacrificing texture.
Lemon Pineapple: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter and frosting for a zesty complement to the pineapple.
Cupcakes: Transform this recipe into cupcakes by dividing the batter into a muffin tin. Bake for 18–22 minutes and frost each cupcake individually.
Conclusion
Southern Pineapple Cake is the perfect blend of tropical flavor and Southern charm. Its moist, tender layers, paired with creamy pineapple-infused frosting, make it a standout dessert for any occasion. The vibrant garnishes add a touch of elegance, while the simple preparation ensures that bakers of all skill levels can achieve delicious results. Whether you’re indulging in a slice on a warm summer evening or bringing it to a festive gathering, this cake is sure to become a cherished favorite. Serve it, savor it, and enjoy a little slice of tropical bliss!
Southern Pineapple Cake Recipe: A Taste of Tropical Bliss
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup canned crushed pineapple undrained
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened (for frosting)
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 1 cup canned crushed pineapple drained (for frosting)
- fresh pineapple slices optional garnish
- maraschino cherries optional garnish
- toasted coconut flakes optional garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 9-inch round cake pans and lightly dust with flour, or line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add softened butter, vegetable oil, undrained crushed pineapple, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer at medium speed until smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a bowl, beat softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract and drained crushed pineapple until well combined.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting over the top. Add the second layer and repeat. Top with the final layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Garnish with fresh pineapple slices, maraschino cherries, or toasted coconut flakes if desired. Slice and serve.