Name: Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-485693H5M16S
Total time: PT-485693H5M16S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup sour cream; 1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained; ½ cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp pineapple juice

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s easy to prepare and delivers a burst of tropical flavor in every bite. The combination of tangy pineapple and rich sour cream creates a moist, tender crumb that’s hard to resist. It’s a crowd-pleaser that always leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream
1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained
½ cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons pineapple juice

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Fold in the drained crushed pineapple gently.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and pineapple juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields one loaf cake, serving approximately 8 slices. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with a baking time of 50–60 minutes. Allow additional time for cooling and glazing.

Variations

Coconut Twist: I sometimes add ½ cup of sweetened shredded coconut to the batter for an extra tropical flavor.
Nutty Addition: Chopped pecans or walnuts can be folded into the batter for added texture and taste.
Citrus Zest: Adding a teaspoon of lemon or lime zest enhances the citrus notes in the cake.
Cream Cheese Frosting: For a richer topping, I replace the glaze with a layer of cream cheese frosting.

Storage and Reheating

I store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I refrigerate it for up to a week. To freeze, I wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To enjoy, I thaw the slices at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, I can use fresh pineapple. I make sure to crush and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

I substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk, which provide a similar tangy flavor and moisture.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, I use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour, ensuring it’s suitable for baking.

How do I know when the cake is done?

I insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! I bake the cake a day ahead and store it covered at room temperature. I add the glaze just before serving for the best presentation.

Conclusion

The Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with a moist, tender crumb. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion, bringing a taste of the tropics to your table. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a scoop of ice cream, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.