Tropical Pineapple Cake: A Sweet, Moist Delight
Indulge in the sunny flavors of this Tropical Pineapple Cake! With its moist, pineapple-infused sponge and creamy pineapple frosting, this dessert brings a taste of the tropics to your table. Perfect for summer gatherings, birthdays, or any time you crave a sweet escape. Optional shredded coconut adds an extra layer of island flair. Here’s how to make this irresistible cake.
Tropical Pineapple Cake Recipe
Serves: 8–10
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 50–60 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- ½ cup buttermilk
For the Pineapple Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9-inch round cake pan to ensure easy release.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, 1 tsp baking soda, and ½ tsp salt until well combined.
- Incorporate Butter & Eggs: Add ½ cup softened unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix with an electric mixer or pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate small bowl, beat 3 eggs with 1 tsp vanilla extract. Add the egg mixture to the flour-butter blend and mix until just combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Gently stir in 1 cup drained crushed pineapple and ½ cup buttermilk until the batter is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10–15 minutes. Carefully invert the cake onto the wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Make the Pineapple Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat ½ cup softened unsalted butter with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add 4 cups powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Mix in ¼ cup drained crushed pineapple and 1 tsp vanilla extract until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
- Frost & Garnish: Once the cake is fully cooled, spread the pineapple frosting generously over the top and sides. For a tropical touch, sprinkle ¼ cup shredded coconut on top (optional).
- Serve & Enjoy: Slice and serve your Tropical Pineapple Cake, savoring its moist texture and bright, fruity flavors!
Why You’ll Love This Cake
- Tropical Vibes: The crushed pineapple in both the cake and frosting delivers a burst of sweet, tangy flavor.
- Moist & Tender: Buttermilk and butter ensure a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Versatile: Perfect for casual desserts, celebrations, or potlucks, with an optional coconut garnish for extra flair.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Pair with a tropical drink like a piña colada or iced pineapple tea.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze unfrosted cake for up to 2 months.
Pro Tip
For a layered cake, double the recipe and bake in two 9-inch pans. Stack with extra frosting between layers for a show-stopping dessert!
This Tropical Pineapple Cake is your ticket to a sweet, sunny escape. Try it for your next gathering and let us know how it turns out in the comments! Craving more tropical treats? Check out our Mango Coconut Tart Recipe for another island-inspired delight.
Originally published on 25insurance.com August 22, 2025.
