Pineapple Heaven Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tropical Flavor: The use of pineapple infuses the cake with a refreshing and sweet taste that transports you to a tropical paradise.
• Moist Texture: The incorporation of pineapple juice ensures a moist and tender crumb in every bite.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward ingredients and steps, this cake is easy to prepare, even for novice bakers.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or topped with whipped cream for added indulgence.

Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon pineapple juice (reserved from the can)
• Optional: Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, crushed pineapple (with juice), vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until the batter is smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Bake the Cake
   Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Prepare the Glaze
   While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar with the reserved pineapple juice until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more juice until you reach the desired consistency.
5. Glaze the Cake
   Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately poke holes all over the top using a fork or skewer. Pour the glaze evenly over the hot cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
6. Cool and Serve
   Let the cake cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 12 servings
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes

Variations

• Add Coconut: For a more tropical flair, fold in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut into the batter.
• Pineapple Upside-Down Style: Arrange pineapple rings and maraschino cherries at the bottom of the pan before pouring in the batter for a decorative touch.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Instead of the glaze, top the cooled cake with a rich cream cheese frosting for added decadence.
• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the glaze for a delightful crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cover the cake tightly and store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: To enjoy warm, microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Ensure you crush it finely and include any juice extracted to maintain the cake’s moisture.

Is it necessary to use the glaze?

The glaze adds extra moisture and sweetness, but if you prefer a less sweet cake, you can omit it or reduce the amount.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake stays moist for several days, making it a great make-ahead dessert option.

What can I substitute for vegetable oil?

You can use an equal amount of melted butter or a neutral-flavored oil like canola oil as a substitute.

How can I tell when the cake is done?

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

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes, white or pineapple-flavored cake mix can be used for a different flavor profile.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Grease and flour the baking pan thoroughly, or use parchment paper to line the bottom for easy removal.

Can I add other fruits to the batter?

While pineapple is the star ingredient, you can add drained mandarin oranges or chopped maraschino cherries for added flavor and color.

What if I don’t have powdered sugar for the glaze?

You can make a simple syrup by dissolving granulated sugar in a bit of water and using that as a glaze.

Is this cake suitable for layering?

This cake is quite moist and may not hold up well as a layered cake. It’s best enjoyed as a single-layer sheet cake.

Conclusion

Pineapple Heaven Cake is

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