Pineapple Pound Cake is a delightful treat that brings a tropical vibe to your kitchen. This cake is not just flavorful but also incredibly easy to make. With its moist texture and sweet pineapple flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special day or just want to enjoy a slice with your afternoon tea, this cake is sure to impress.
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you try making Pineapple Pound Cake? First of all, it’s a fantastic way to use up crushed pineapple, which adds a juicy sweetness to each bite. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Every time I bake this cake, my family can’t get enough of it. It’s perfect for weekend gatherings, birthdays, or just when you want something sweet at home. This delightful cake combines the richness of a pound cake with the fruity goodness of pineapple, making it irresistible.
How to Make Pineapple Pound Cake
Now, let’s get to the fun part—making the Pineapple Pound Cake! It’s pretty straightforward, so even if you’re a beginner in baking, you can whip this up without any fuss.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
Directions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). You want it nice and hot for that perfect bake.
- Prepare the Bundt Pan: Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan. This will help your cake come out smoothly after baking.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take a few minutes.
- Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time. After each egg, make sure it’s well mixed before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for that lovely aroma.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This will ensure even distribution of the baking powder and salt in your cake.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix well until everything is combined.
- Fold in Pineapple: Gently fold in the crushed pineapple. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the batter light.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Pineapple Pound Cake
Serving Pineapple Pound Cake is easy! You can enjoy it plain, or for an extra treat, add a dusting of powdered sugar on top. You can also serve it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious combination. It’s wonderful as a dessert after dinner or as a sweet snack anytime.
How to Store Pineapple Pound Cake
To keep your Pineapple Pound Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also refrigerate it if you want it to last a little longer, but it’s best enjoyed at room temperature. If you want to save some for later, this cake freezes well. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to three months.
Tips to Make Pineapple Pound Cake
- Use Fresh Pineapple: If you can, use fresh pineapple for this recipe. It adds an even fresher taste compared to canned varieties.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Every oven is different!
Variation
For a fun twist, try adding different types of fruit like coconut or mango to the batter along with the pineapple. You can also incorporate nuts, like chopped walnuts or pecans, for a little crunch.
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the butter?
Yes, you can use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute, but it may change the taste and texture slightly.
2. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of crushed?
Absolutely! Just chop fresh pineapple into small pieces and drain any excess juice.
3. What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
This could happen if the batter is overmixed or if the oven temperature is too low. Make sure to mix gently and check your oven temperature with a thermometer.
For more baking tips and delicious recipes, check out Baking Basics and AllRecipes for inspiration! Happy baking!
