Step-by-step instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, crushed pineapple with juice, and vanilla extract. Mix together until the batter is smooth.
- Bake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake it in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes or until it turns a golden color. Once done, let the cake cool completely in the pan.
- Make the Creamy Topping: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and the additional teaspoon of vanilla extract while continuing to beat until well combined. In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream to stiff peaks, then gently fold this whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until just combined.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake is cooled, spread the creamy topping evenly across the surface. You can dress it up with toasted coconut, nuts, cherries, or even extra pineapple. Chill it for at least one hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Delight is all about the presentation! Slice it into generous squares and arrange them on a colorful platter. Garnish each piece with a sprinkle of toasted coconut and a cherry on top for that classic look. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside fresh tropical fruits like mango or kiwi. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperature and texture!
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your leftover Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Delight, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. It can be kept in the fridge for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, this cake freezes wonderfully! Just cut into portions, wrap them tightly, and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it overnight in the fridge!
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few tips to elevate your baking game:
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in your frosting.
- For an extra kick of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of coconut extract to the frosting.
- If you’re short on time, you can skip the chilling phase, but letting the cake rest will significantly enhance the flavor and texture!
Creative twists
Feel free to put your own spin on this recipe! You can create layers by baking in multiple round cake pans and stacking them with frosting in between. Experiment with adding mashed bananas for a delightful twist or switch the cream cheese frosting for a lime-flavored one for a zesty contrast. If you’re looking for a healthier version, consider using Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese.
FAQs
What is the preparation time for Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Delight?
Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with an additional 30-35 minutes baking time.
Can I substitute crushed pineapple with fresh pineapple?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but ensure you finely chop it and include some juice to achieve the right consistency.
How can I make this dessert gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup for cup. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
How do I store my leftover cake?
Store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. It can also be frozen for longer storage; just wrap portions tightly and freeze.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream as a substitute for the heavy whipping cream to achieve a delicious dairy-free version.
