Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake is a burst of tropical flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this cake is not just delicious; it’s a joy to make. Whether you’re hosting a summer get-together or looking for a sweet treat to brighten your day, Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake is the answer.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 360
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 36g
Sodium: 210mg
Why Make Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake
Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake is not just a delightful dessert; it’s a fantastic way to incorporate the sweetness of pineapple into your diet. Rich in flavor and moisture, this cake is perfect on its own and does not require elaborate garnishing. The addition of pecans and coconut gives it a unique texture and crunch, making it a great choice for those who love a bit of variety with their desserts.
Beyond its taste, Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake is remarkably versatile. You can serve it at birthdays, picnics, or even as a comforting afternoon snack. It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike, ensuring that everyone at your gathering will leave satisfied.
How to Make Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake Step by Step
Ingredients
1 box yellow cake mix
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
4 large eggs
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup milk
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan.
- In a large bowl, combine cake mix, crushed pineapple with juice, eggs, and vegetable oil. Beat for 2 minutes on medium speed.
- Stir in chopped pecans and shredded coconut.
- Pour batter into prepared bundt pan and bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool cake in pan for 10 minutes; remove from pan and cool completely on a wire rack.
- For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy.
- Stir in vanilla extract and milk until desired spreading consistency is reached.
- Spread frosting over cooled cake and serve.
How to Serve Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake
Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or blueberries. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream also pairs beautifully with this cake. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top for added indulgence.
How to Store Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake
To keep your Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake fresh, store it in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It can last up to five days in the fridge. For reheating, simply microwave a slice for a few seconds. If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months; just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Expert Tips for Cooking Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake
- For a lighter texture, separate the egg whites and beat them until stiff, then fold them into the batter before baking.
- Experiment with adding a splash of coconut extract for an extra tropical flavor.
- If you prefer a less sweet frosting, reduce the amount of powdered sugar to taste.
- To enhance the coconut flavor, toast the shredded coconut before adding it to the cake.
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in your frosting.
Delicious Variations of Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake
You can easily customize Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake to suit your taste. Consider adding a hint of lime zest for a refreshing citrus kick. For a spicy twist, incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the batter. If you want to make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake is truly a delightful treat that everyone will love. Its incredible flavor, ease of making, and versatility make it a must-try for any home baker. Enjoy the sunshine in every bite!
