Picture this: a slice of cake bursting with the juicy sweetness of pineapple, nestled between layers of moist, buttery cake, and topped with a dreamy pineapple-infused frosting. That’s exactly what you get with this Pineapple Heaven Cake — a tropical escape you can bake right at home! Perfect for birthdays, summer gatherings, or whenever you crave a little slice of paradise.
What You’ll Need for Pineapple Heaven Cake
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (with juice)
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1 teaspoon coconut extract (optional)
- Splash of heavy cream (to adjust consistency)
For Garnish:
- Fresh pineapple slices
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Maraschino cherries
How to Make Pineapple Heaven Cake
1. Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with both sugars until fluffy and light, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla.
Mix in the crushed pineapple with its juice for natural sweetness and moisture.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry. Stir just until combined — don’t overmix.
2. Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans, smoothing the tops.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Make the Pineapple Frosting
Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition until smooth and fluffy.
Fold in the drained crushed pineapple and coconut extract, if using. Adjust the frosting’s thickness with a splash of heavy cream as needed.
4. Assemble Your Cake
If the cake tops have domed, level them with a serrated knife.
Place one cake layer on your serving plate, spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer and frost the entire cake smoothly.
Decorate with fresh pineapple slices, toasted coconut flakes, and maraschino cherries for that perfect tropical finish.
Tips for the Best Pineapple Heaven Cake
- Make sure to drain the pineapple well before adding it to the frosting to avoid a runny texture.
- Use room temperature ingredients to create a smooth, even batter.
- Toast coconut flakes to add extra flavor and crunch to your garnish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Pineapple Heaven Cake with a scoop of coconut ice cream or a chilled piña colada for the ultimate tropical vibe. This cake is a crowd-pleaser for parties, picnics, or any time you want to impress with a stunning, delicious dessert.
Why This Cake Will Be Your Favorite
The tender, buttery cake paired with sweet pineapple and creamy frosting is a match made in dessert heaven. It’s light but indulgent, tropical yet comforting — a recipe that will quickly become a staple for all your special occasions.
FAQs
How long does the cake stay fresh?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Bake the cake layers a day in advance and wrap them tightly. Frost just before serving.
Can I use canned pineapple?
Definitely — just use crushed pineapple in juice, not syrup, for the best flavor.
What if my frosting is too thin?
Add powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time until you get the right consistency.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Wrap unfrosted layers tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Heaven Cake is a tropical delight that turns every bite into a mini vacation. Moist, flavorful layers and luscious pineapple frosting make it a standout dessert for any occasion. Bring a little sunshine to your table with this delicious slice of paradise!