Name: Easy Pineapple Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 16 oz canned crushed pineapple with juice (do not drain; reserve 2 Tbsp for frosting); 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 113g unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar; 2 Tbsp crushed pineapple with juice (reserved from the can used in the cake); 1/8 tsp salt

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 37 reviews

If you’re craving a dessert that’s bursting with tropical flavor yet incredibly simple to make, this Easy Pineapple Cake Recipe is the perfect treat for you. Moist, light, and perfectly sweet, this cake blends the tangy charm of crushed pineapple with a luscious homemade pineapple buttercream frosting. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just a sweet indulgence at home, this recipe brings joy in every bite and requires only straightforward ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl rests on a white marbled surface, holding a creamy, light yellow mixture that fills about half of its depth. In the center, there is a slightly rough textured pile of finely minced or mashed pale yellow ingredient, surrounded by the smooth liquid base. Bright golden yellow oil is being poured in a thin stream from a transparent measuring cup above, landing directly on the minced pile, causing subtle ripples in the mix. The bowl’s transparent sides show the contrast between the creamy base and the minced portion. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet play a crucial role in creating the unique texture and bright flavor that make this Easy Pineapple Cake Recipe truly special. Each element works harmoniously to ensure your cake is moist, tender, and wonderfully flavorful.

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cake, providing the structure you need without weighing it down.
1 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise to a light and fluffy texture.
1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
16 oz canned crushed pineapple with juice: The superstar ingredient infusing tropical flavor and moistness—remember to reserve 2 tablespoons for the frosting!
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: Adds subtle richness and keeps the cake soft.
113g unsalted butter, softened: For the creamy frosting that complements the cake’s moist texture.
1 3/4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
2 Tbsp crushed pineapple with juice (reserved): Adds an extra burst of pineapple flavor to the frosting.
1/8 tsp salt: Enhances the frosting’s flavor balance.

How to Make Easy Pineapple Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 356ºF (180ºC). Whether you have a non-stick 8×8 inch pan or not, line it with parchment paper or grease and lightly flour it—this ensures your cake will have smooth, perfect sides and come out of the pan with ease.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these together upfront allows your leavening and seasoning to distribute evenly, ensuring every bite tastes just right.

Step 3: Beat Sugar and Eggs

Using a mixer, beat the granulated sugar and eggs together on medium speed for about a minute, until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. This step helps aerate your batter, contributing to that light and fluffy texture.

Step 4: Reserve Pineapple for the Frosting

Before adding the pineapple to the batter, carefully scoop out 2 tablespoons of the crushed pineapple with its juice and set it aside—this little step makes your frosting sing with real pineapple flavor.

Step 5: Add Pineapple and Olive Oil

Pour the remaining crushed pineapple with juice and olive oil into your mixture. Give it a quick blend for about 15 seconds, enough to combine smoothly without overworking the batter.

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Add your dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until it disappears into the batter—about 15 seconds. Avoid over-mixing here to keep your cake tender instead of dense.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the luscious batter into your prepared pan, smooth the top gently with a spatula, and place it in the oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs for that perfect soft bite.

Step 8: Cool Completely

Let your cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool fully. Patience here is key because frosting a warm cake can turn your buttercream runny.

Step 9: Make the Pineapple Buttercream Frosting

Beat the softened butter in a bowl until creamy and pale—this usually takes about a minute with a mixer. Gradually add the powdered sugar in two parts, beating to absorb the sugar fully before adding the next. Stir in the reserved crushed pineapple and salt, then beat again for one minute until fluffy and light.

Step 10: Frost and Serve

Once your cake has cooled completely, spread the pineapple buttercream evenly over the top. Cut into squares and enjoy the fresh, tropical bliss of your homemade Easy Pineapple Cake Recipe!

How to Serve Easy Pineapple Cake Recipe

This image shows a close-up view of several square pieces of cake with two layers; the bottom layer is a light golden brown cake with a soft and slightly crumbly texture, and the top layer is a thick, creamy off-white frosting with a smooth but slightly swirled finish. The squares are neatly arranged in rows on a white tray placed on a white marbled surface. One piece near the center is slightly pulled out to show the inside texture of the cake layer beneath the frosting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or a few fresh pineapple chunks makes a delightful finishing touch. These garnishes not only elevate the look of your cake but reinforce its tropical vibe.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a dollop of vanilla ice cream or a scoop of coconut sorbet to complement the pineapple’s sweet and tangy notes perfectly. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea rounds out the experience with comforting contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this cake in mini individual portions or transform it into cupcakes for a fun twist. Layering it with whipped cream and pineapple slices in clear glasses offers an elegant, trifle-inspired presentation that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain its moist texture and fresh pineapple flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cake wrapped well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving to preserve the best texture.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm, pop a slice in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Avoid reheating the entire cake with frosting to prevent melting; instead, warm individual portions right before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh crushed pineapple works wonderfully but be sure to include the juice to keep the cake moist and flavorful.

Is olive oil necessary in this Easy Pineapple Cake Recipe?

Olive oil lends a subtle richness and helps keep the cake tender. You can substitute with a mild vegetable oil if preferred, but avoid strong-flavored oils that might overpower the pineapple.

How do I avoid the cake becoming dense?

The key is not over-mixing once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Stir just until everything is blended for a light, airy texture.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Definitely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend made for baking, following the package instructions for best results.

How long does this cake stay fresh?

When stored properly at room temperature, it stays fresh for about two days, but you can refrigerate it to extend freshness up to four days, just keep it tightly covered.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly joyful about baking an Easy Pineapple Cake Recipe that’s both simple and packed with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just diving in, this recipe delivers vibrant tropical notes wrapped in moist cake and creamy pineapple frosting. I encourage you to give this delightful cake a try—you’ll find it quickly becomes a go-to favorite in your baking repertoire!