Description
Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake
Experience a slice of paradise with this Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake! Bursting with the tropical flavor of crushed pineapple and topped with a sweet glaze, this cake is a delightful treat for any occasion. Moist, fluffy, and delicious, it’s sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
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, drained
½ cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons pineapple juice
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and 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 with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the sour cream, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
Gently fold in the crushed pineapple until evenly distributed.
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 to make a glaze. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Calories: 280 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
Enjoy this tropical delight that transports you straight to a sunny beach with every bite!
#lovealletherecipes
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect cake every time. First, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing. Preheat your oven and prepare your loaf pan thoroughly by greasing and lightly flouring it to prevent sticking. When creaming the butter and sugar, beat for a full 3-5 minutes until pale and fluffy; this incorporates air for a lighter texture. When adding the dry and wet ingredients, mix on low speed and stop as soon as the flour is incorporated to avoid a tough cake. Gently fold the drained pineapple with a spatula to maintain the batter’s structure. Test for doneness at the 50-minute mark; the cake is ready when the top is golden and a skewer comes out clean.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile cake pairs wonderfully with various toppings and occasions. For a decadent dessert, serve a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes or a maraschino cherry for extra tropical flair. It makes an excellent addition to a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and coffee. For a festive touch, decorate the glazed top with edible flowers or thin pineapple slices.
How-to Summary
In summary, create this Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake by: 1) Whisking dry ingredients. 2) Creaming butter and sugar until fluffy. 3) Incorporating eggs and vanilla. 4) Alternately mixing in dry ingredients and sour cream. 5) Folding in drained crushed pineapple. 6) Baking until golden and cooked through. 7) Cooling completely before drizzling with a simple glaze of powdered sugar and pineapple juice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? Yes, but you must crush and drain it very well. Fresh pineapple contains more moisture and active enzymes that can affect texture, so thorough draining is crucial.
What can I substitute for sour cream? Full-fat plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk are excellent 1:1 substitutes that will maintain the cake’s moisture and tender crumb.
How should I store this cake? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The glaze may become sticky.
Can I make this into a layer cake or cupcakes? Absolutely. For a layer cake, double the recipe and use two 8-inch round pans. For cupcakes, fill liners 2/3 full and bake for 18-22 minutes.
Why did my cake sink in the middle? This is often due to underbaking, opening the oven door too early, or using too much pineapple liquid, which makes the batter too heavy. Ensure proper draining and baking time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Draining the Pineapple: Excess liquid will make the batter soggy and can cause the cake to collapse. Press the crushed pineapple in a fine-mesh strainer.
- Overmixing the Batter: Once the flour is added, mix only until just combined. Overworking develops gluten, leading to a dense, tough cake.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter, eggs, or sour cream won’t emulsify properly, resulting in a curdled batter and uneven texture.
- Glazing a Warm Cake: The glaze will melt and absorb into the cake if it’s not fully cooled, creating a wet, sticky top instead of a sweet drizzle.
Conclusion
This Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a straightforward yet impressive dessert that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you can achieve a perfectly moist, flavorful cake every time. Whether served simply with a cup of tea or dressed up for a special occasion, its bright pineapple flavor is guaranteed to delight. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!