Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Delight

Introduction

Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Delight is a soft, moist, sunshine-filled dessert that tastes like a tropical getaway in every bite. This cake is loaded with sweet crushed pineapple, light vanilla cake, and topped with a creamy whipped frosting that melts right into the crumb. It’s simple, nostalgic, and incredibly satisfying — the kind of dessert that shows up at potlucks, family gatherings, and summer celebrations and disappears fast.

What makes this cake special is its texture and ease. The pineapple juice bakes directly into the batter, creating a naturally moist cake without the need for complicated techniques. Finished with a fluffy, lightly sweet topping, it’s refreshing, comforting, and perfect year-round.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

  • Ultra-moist thanks to crushed pineapple

  • Easy one-bowl style recipe

  • Light, fluffy frosting

  • Perfect for parties and potlucks

  • No fancy decorating required

Ingredients

Pineapple Cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1½ cups granulated sugar

  • 2 teaspoons baking soda

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Creamy Topping

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold

Optional Garnishes

  • Toasted coconut flakes

  • Chopped pecans or walnuts

  • Maraschino cherries

  • Extra pineapple chunks

Equipment Needed

  • 9×13-inch baking pan

  • Mixing bowls

  • Electric mixer

  • Rubber spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

  3. In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.

  4. Add eggs, crushed pineapple (with juice), and vanilla.

  5. Mix until fully combined and smooth.

No mixer required for the cake batter.

Step 2: Bake

  1. Pour batter evenly into prepared pan.

  2. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  3. Allow cake to cool completely in the pan.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Topping

  1. Beat cream cheese until smooth.

  2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla; beat until creamy.

  3. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks.

  4. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.

Step 4: Frost the Cake

  1. Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake.

  2. Add optional garnishes if desired.

  3. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving for best texture.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert

  • Perfect after grilled meals or summer dinners

  • Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or coffee

Tips for Best Results

  • Do not drain the pineapple — juice is essential

  • Let cake cool fully before frosting

  • Chill before slicing for clean cuts

  • Toast coconut for deeper flavor

Variations

Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Cake

Add 1 cup shredded coconut to the batter.

Pineapple Pecan Delight

Sprinkle chopped pecans over the frosting.

Mandarin Pineapple Cake

Fold drained mandarin oranges into the batter.

Lighter Version

Use whipped topping instead of homemade frosting.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Store covered in the refrigerator up to 4 days

  • Cake base can be baked 1 day ahead

  • Not freezer-friendly once frosted

Preparation Time

  • Prep time: 15 minutes

  • Bake time: 35 minutes

  • Chill time: 1 hour

  • Total time: ~1 hour 50 minutes

Estimated Calories

  • Approximately 320–360 calories per slice

  • Based on 12 servings

  • Varies depending on frosting thickness

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Delight is soft, sweet, and wonderfully tropical — a dessert that feels light yet indulgent at the same time. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to whenever you need something easy, crowd-pleasing, and comforting.