This Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is the perfect way to bring a tropical feel to your dessert table. The cake is rich yet fluffy, with a delightful hint of fresh pineapple throughout. Finished with a pineapple glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness and citrusy zing, it’s an ideal treat for summer gatherings or to brighten up any occasion.
This Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake offers a delightful tropical escape with every bite. The crushed pineapple adds bursts of flavor and texture to the soft, moist cake, while sour cream ensures each slice is rich and fluffy. It's a dessert that's as bright and sunny as a summer day on a tropical beach. This cake is finished with a simple but delicious pineapple glaze, infusing it with a sweet citrusy twist.
INGREDIENTS
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
- All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup, softened
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup
- Large eggs: 2, at room temperature
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Sour cream: ½ cup
- Crushed pineapple: 1 cup, drained
- Powdered sugar: ½ cup, for the glaze
- Pineapple juice: 2 tablespoons, for the glaze
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a loaf pan.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve warm or at room temperature. For a more indulgent experience, pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Helpful Notes
- For an extra pineapple punch, consider adding some chopped pineapple chunks to the batter.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Anna recommends using fresh pineapple for a brighter flavor, but canned will work perfectly in a pinch.
How to Achieve a Flawless Pineapple Cake
Ensuring your pineapple cake turns out fluffy and moist comes down to a few simple tips. First, always drain your pineapple well. Excess moisture can make the cake too dense. Second, use room-temperature ingredients to help the batter mix evenly. Finally, do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added—this can lead to a denser cake.
Why Sour Cream Makes Cakes Moist
Sour cream is a secret weapon in many baked goods. Its slightly tangy flavor and creamy texture not only balance the sweetness of desserts like this pineapple cake, but it also adds extra moisture without thinning the batter, resulting in a perfectly moist crumb.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple will work just as well. Just be sure to drain any excess juice to avoid making the batter too watery.
How should I store this cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it, or freeze individual slices for up to a month.
Summary
The Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a luscious dessert that brings a burst of tropical flavors to every bite. Made with fresh pineapple, it has a moist, fluffy crumb, while sour cream adds a rich texture. The star of the show is the sweet pineapple glaze drizzled on top, elevating the cake's fruity profile with a zingy, citrusy sweetness. The recipe is perfect for a relaxed summer dessert or any occasion when you want a taste of sunshine. It's quick to make, with straightforward ingredients, and the result is an unforgettable cake that will have everyone asking for seconds.