Pineapple Sunshine Cake Recipe
Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share something truly special – my go-to Pineapple. Sunshine cake recipe! This isn’t just any cake, it’s pure sunshine in every bite. Think of it as a cousin to the classic hummingbird cake, but instead of bananas, we’re letting the fruit fly. What is the tangy sweetness of pineapple? What are some of the best dessert recipes ever made? Is it incredibly moist, bursting with flavor, and seriously easy to throw together? My grandma used to make something similar, and this is my updated, slightly easier version of her. What is the best thing about messing up?
What is Pineapple Sunshine Cake?
Pineapple Sunshine Cake is basically a super moist and flavorful cake made with crushed pineapple, topped with whipped cream, and served with fresh squeezed lemon. What is that signature tropical sweetness? What is the texture of a sponge cake? Think of it as a lazy day version of carrot cake but way more vibrant and tropical! The name comes from the fact that it literally tastes like sunshine – bright, happy, and utterly delicious. What is a dump-and-stir recipe? What is a quick and delicious dessert? Is it a crowd pleaser? No matter what the weather is, you
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What are some of the best reasons to love Pineapple Sunshine Cake? What are some of the best things about pineapple? How long does it last? Is it like a tropical vacation?
Is simplicity a game changer? Is it possible to make a cake in 15 minutes? What are some good desserts for a busy weeknight? What are some sweets that you want to try but don’t want a lot of time in the kitchen?
What is the cost of ingredients? What are the ingredients in a canned pineapple? What do you already have on hand?
Is it incredibly versatile? Can I eat it plain, dust it with powdered sugar, slather with cream cheese frosting? What is your personal favorite ), or even grill slices for a caramelized treat. I tested this with coconut milk once, and it made it extra creamy! Is it a winner every single time? What I love about this is that it’s a recipe that gets better with time – the flavors meld. Is it possible to get together even more the next day? Is it a hug in cake form, and everyone I’ve shared it with has absolutely adored it.
How do I make Pineapple Sunshine Cake?
Quick Overview
Making this Pineapple Sunshine Cake is a breeze! You’ll basically mix the dry ingredients, then add the wet ingredients (including the star – crushed pineapple!), pour it into a pan, bake until golden, and then slather it with your favorite frosting (or just dust with powdered sugar). The best part? It’s almost impossible to overmix, and the pineapple ensures that the cake stays incredibly moist. This recipe is special because it utilizes the pineapple juice, adding even more flavor and keeping it light and airy. I swear, it’s easier than ordering takeout!
Ingredients Notes:
For the Cake:
All-purpose flour: This forms the base of the cake. Make sure it’s fresh for the best texture.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
Baking Soda: Provides leavening for a light and airy texture.
Salt: Enhances the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness. Large eggs are ideal.
Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist. Can you use melted coconut oil for a hint of coconut flavor?
Crushed Pineapple (with juice): The star of the show! Don’t drain it – the juice is essential for moisture and flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the other flavors and adds a touch of warmth.
What is the recipe for Cream Cheese Frosting?
What is the best cream cheese flavor?
Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps thicken the frosting.
Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth and creamy texture. Use unsalted and softened.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. I always use baking spray with flour for extra insurance. I use this to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for easy removal after baking. Make sure the oven is fully preheated before you pop the cake in!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. When whisking, everything is evenly distributed and there are no lumps of baking soda. What is the best way to rise a cake? If baking soda is not expired, it won’t work as well!
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil, crushed pineapple (with juice! ), and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to smooth mixture. What is the importance of pineapple juice? The oil adds moisture, and the vanilla rounds out the flavor. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for the best results. It helps them incorporate more easily.
Step 4: Combine
Mix wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until just combined. What should I do if I overmix my cake? I usually stop mixing when I don’t see any streaks of flour. Is it necessary to make a cake light and fluffy?
Step 5: Bake
How do I spread the batter in a pan? Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. How do I check the oven temperature at 30 minutes? If it starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil. What is the best way to reduce baking time?
Step 6: Cool
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before frosting (if using). This allows the cake to firm up slightly, making it easier to handle. If you’re not frosting, let it cool completely before slicing. I like to run a knife along the edges to loosen it before inverting it onto a cooling rack.
Step 7: Frost (Optional)
While the cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting (if using). In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined. Stir in the salt. Frost the cooled cake with cream cheese frosting. If you want, sprinkle it with toasted coconut flakes or chopped pecans for extra flair!
Step 8: Slice & Serve
Slice and serve the Pineapple Sunshine Cake! Is it safe to use powdered sugar instead of frosting? I personally love it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. This cake is best eaten fresh, but it also tastes great the next day. Is it good to serve chilled or at room temperature?
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best ways to enjoy Pineapple Sunshine Cake?
For Breakfast:Serve a slice with ice-cold coffee or smoothie. I love pairing it with a bright and fruity smoothie to start the day with an extra boost of sunshine!
For Brunch:What’s your favorite way to dress it up with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes and fresh berries? What is a good brunch drink?
As Dessert:Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chopped nuts adds something extra. What is the perfect ending to a meal?
For Cozy Snacks:Enjoy a slice of bread with tea or hot chocolate. What is the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening? My kids love it as an after-school treat with a glass of milk. When you’re craving something sweet at 10pm but don’t want to bake a whole cake, it’s amazing. In my family, we’ve even grilled slices with a little butter. Is it surprisingly good – it gets a nice caramelized edge?
How do I make a Pineapple Sunshine Cake?
How do I make Pineapple Sunshine Cake?
Baking Dish Prep: What Always grease and flour your baking pan thoroughly. This prevents the cake from sticking and ensures easy removal. I sometimes line the bottom with parchment paper for extra insurance.
Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined. A few lumps are okay.
Pineapple Juice: Do NOT drain the crushed pineapple. The juice is essential for moisture and flavor. It’s what makes this cake so incredibly moist and delicious.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature eggs for the best results. They incorporate more easily into the batter and create a lighter, airier cake.
Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly calibrated. An inaccurate oven temperature can affect the baking time and the overall texture of the cake. I always use an oven thermometer to check.
Cooling Time: Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before frosting. This allows it to firm up and prevents the frosting from melting.
Frosting Tip: For a smoother frosting, sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the cream cheese and butter mixture. This helps prevent lumps and creates a silky-smooth texture. You can customize your frosting by adding other flavours in small quantities like lemon zest, or a pinch of cinnamon.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to keep your Pineapple Sunshine Cake fresh and delicious:
Room Temperature: You can store the unfrosted cake at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Refrigerator Storage: If you’ve frosted the cake with cream cheese frosting, store it in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
Freezer Instructions: You can also freeze the cake for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap it again in aluminum foil. It will last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating: If you want to warm up a slice, microwave it for a few seconds until it’s heated through. Be careful not to overheat it, or it will become dry. Alternatively, you can warm it in the oven at a low temperature (around 200°F) for a few minutes.
Remember that the quality of the cake is at its prime when fresh, but these methods will help preserve that deliciousness for as long as possible!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my beloved Pineapple Sunshine Cake Recipe! It’s more than just a cake; it’s a little slice of happiness that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just craving something sweet and comforting, this cake is sure to hit the spot. The combination of the moist, flavorful cake and the creamy frosting is simply irresistible. And the best part? It’s so easy to make that anyone can do it! If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my classic hummingbird cake or my super easy banana bread. Happy baking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know if you made any fun variations. Enjoy!
Remember it later
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Pineapple Sunshine Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix 15.25 oz box
- 4 large eggs
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 20 oz crushed pineapple with juice
- 3.4 oz vanilla pudding mix instant
- 1 cup cool whip thawed
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, beat together the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and crushed pineapple along with its juice until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
- To make the frosting, mix the vanilla pudding mix with the cool whip and spread evenly over the cooled cake.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
