Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe

If you love fruity and moist cakes, you’re going to enjoy this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake. It’s soft, sweet, and full of tropical flavor in every bite. Made with crushed pineapple and simple ingredients, this cake is easy to put together and perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it plain, with frosting, or a scoop of ice cream, it’s the kind of dessert that makes people smile. It’s light, refreshing, and tastes like a little slice of sunshine straight from the islands.

Key Takeaways

• Tropical Flavor: This cake bursts with the sunny sweetness of crushed pineapple, creating a juicy, tropical flavor in every bite. Optional toppings like toasted coconut or crunchy macadamia nuts add extra island flair, making each slice taste like a mini getaway.
• Easy and Moist: With a simple one-bowl method, this pineapple poke cake is very easy to make. The crushed pineapple keeps it incredibly moist and tender, so you get a soft, flavorful cake without any complicated steps or special equipment.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer a drizzle of glaze, a layer of cream cheese frosting, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, this cake adapts to your taste. Add coconut flakes, chopped nuts, or even maraschino cherries in this recipe for hawaiian pineapple cake to make it uniquely yours.

Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe

Recipe by Lutfan

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

12

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

35

minutes

Calories

550

kcal

Ingredients You’ll Need for Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Recipe

• Cake Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 2 tsp baking soda

• 2 large eggs

• 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple (undrained)

• ¼ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ tsp salt

• Optional Toppings/Frosting:

• 1 cup shredded coconut (toasted if you like)

• ½ cup chopped nuts (macadamia, pecans, or walnuts work great)

• Cream cheese frosting (soften 8 oz cream cheese + ½ cup butter, beat with 1½–2 cups powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla)

• Whipped cream or a simple powdered-sugar glaze for serving

How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Cake – Step by Step Instructions?

• Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This helps the cake release easily later.
• Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, crushed pineapple (with its juice), oil, and vanilla. Stir or beat the batter for about 2–3 minutes until everything is well combined. The pineapple juice will make the batter very moist.
• Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake will rise nicely and smell amazing as it bakes!
• Make the Topping: While the cake is in the oven, prepare the topping. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup evaporated milk, 1½ cups sugar, ¾ cup butter (or margarine), and 1 tsp vanilla. Stir constantly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add 1 cup shredded coconut and 1 cup chopped nuts. Stir for 2 more minutes so everything melts together.
• Add the Topping: As soon as you take the cake out of the oven, pour the hot topping evenly over it. Use a spatula to smooth it out; the topping will seep into the cake’s cracks and edges. It’s okay if it looks very moist, that’s what makes it deliciously gooey.
• Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool for at least 15–20 minutes so the topping sets up a bit. You can cut it warm for a gooey dessert, or chill it in the fridge for firmer slices. Top with extra coconut, a drizzle of cream cheese frosting, or whipped cream if you like. Slice, grab a fork, and enjoy your tropical treat.

Chef Recommendations

• Don’t Drain the Pineapple: Keep that pineapple juice. It keeps the pineapple poke cake extra moist and delicious. Use the undrained crushed pineapple and mix the juices right into the batter.
• Boost the Tropical Vibe: In this recipe for Hawaiian pineapple cake, stir in a handful of shredded coconut or chopped macadamia nuts right into the batter, or sprinkle some on top before baking. Toasting the coconut and nuts first adds even more flavor and crunch.
• Cool for Neat Slices: For clean cuts and a set topping, let the pineapple poke cake cool slightly (or refrigerate it) before slicing. If you like a gooey experience, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Also check out the delicious recipe of Sushi Cake.

Andes Mint Baking Chips      

What to serve with Hawaiian Pineapple Cake?

Hawaiian Pineapple Cake pairs well with a variety of sides that bring out its tropical charm. A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream adds a cool, creamy touch that balances the cake’s sweet and fruity flavor. 

Whipped cream is another simple way to add softness and richness. For a fresh bite, try serving this pineapple poke cake with tropical fruit like mango, kiwi, or strawberries. 

A light fruit salad also works beautifully, adding color and natural sweetness to the plate. To drink, you can stick with the island theme by offering iced tea, lemonade, or chilled pineapple juice. If you’re serving adults, a coconut cocktail or piña colada mocktail makes a fun and flavorful pairing.

FAQs

Amira Rahman

I’m a sweet chef who loves creating irresistible cakes, pastries, and sweet treats. When I’m not baking, you’ll find me experimenting with new flavors, enjoying a good cup of coffee, and sharing my passion for desserts with the world.