Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Easy Pineapple Cake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 37 reviews

  • Author: Amina
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 16 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Easy Pineapple Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert featuring crushed pineapple both in the batter and the buttercream frosting. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake is perfect for any occasion. The combination of olive oil and crushed pineapple keeps the cake tender and delightfully fruity, topped with a luscious pineapple-infused buttercream for a tropical twist.


Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 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

For the Pineapple Buttercream Frosting

  • 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


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 356ºF (180ºC). Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper or alternatively, grease and lightly flour a non-stick pan to ensure your cake has smooth sides.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well blended. Set this dry mixture aside until ready to use.
  3. Mix Sugar and Eggs: Using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the sugar and eggs on medium speed for about 1 minute, scraping down the bowl as needed, until the mixture is well combined and slightly airy.
  4. Reserve Pineapple for Frosting: Before adding the pineapple to the batter, scoop out and set aside 2 tablespoons of the crushed pineapple with juice for use in the frosting later.
  5. Incorporate Remaining Pineapple and Oil: Pour the remaining crushed pineapple along with the olive oil into the bowl with the sugar and eggs. Beat on medium speed for 15 seconds to combine.
  6. Add Dry Ingredients: Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix gently and briefly for about 15 seconds until just combined; be careful not to over-mix to keep the cake light and tender.
  7. Transfer Batter to Pan: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and smooth the surface with a spatula to ensure even baking.
  8. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
  9. Cool: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
  10. Prepare Pineapple Buttercream Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with electric beaters or a stand mixer on medium speed for 1 minute until smooth, pale, and creamy.
  11. Add Powdered Sugar Gradually: Add half the powdered sugar and beat until combined. Add the second half and continue beating until the frosting is smooth and well incorporated.
  12. Add Reserved Pineapple and Salt: Mix in the reserved 2 tablespoons of crushed pineapple with juice along with the salt. Beat the frosting for 1 minute until it becomes light and fluffy.
  13. Frost Cake: Once your cake is completely cool, spread the pineapple buttercream frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.
  14. Serve: Cut the cake into 16 squares and serve. Enjoy the moist cake with a tropical twist!

Notes

  • Do not drain the crushed pineapple for the cake batter; the juice helps keep the cake moist.
  • Be careful not to over-mix the batter once the flour is added to avoid a dense cake texture.
  • Using olive oil results in a lighter texture and subtle flavor; alternatively, you can substitute with vegetable oil if preferred.
  • Ensure the cake is fully cooled before applying frosting to prevent it from melting.
  • For best results, use room temperature ingredients for easier mixing and better texture.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American