This Moist Pineapple Cake is a deliciously simple dessert packed with tropical flavor and topped with a rich, creamy icing. It’s one of the easiest homemade cakes you’ll ever bake—no mixers or complicated steps required. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a birthday, or just satisfying a sweet tooth, this pineapple cake is the perfect solution.
Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Cake
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Made with just a handful of pantry ingredients
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No oil or butter needed in the batter
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Moist and tender thanks to crushed pineapple
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Perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy
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Great for potlucks, holidays, or casual weeknight treats
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Cake:
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1 can pineapple (undrained) – Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and tropical flavor.
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1 cup all-purpose flour – The structure-building base of the cake.
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1½ cups granulated sugar – Provides just the right amount of sweetness.
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2 large eggs – Adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients.
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2 tsp baking soda – Leavens the cake for a soft, fluffy texture.
For the Icing:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened – Creates a creamy, tangy frosting.
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1 stick butter, softened (½ cup) – Adds richness and smoothness.
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2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the icing.
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2 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances flavor with warm undertones.
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2 tbsp milk – Thins the icing slightly for easy spreading.
Tips and Tricks
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Use the full can of pineapple with juice — it provides the moisture and flavor.
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Frost while warm for an ultra-moist cake that soaks in the icing.
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Store leftovers covered in the fridge to keep the frosting fresh.
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Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the frosting for a crunchy twist.
Variations and Customizations
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Add shredded coconut for a tropical spin
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Swap cream cheese frosting with whipped topping for a lighter dessert
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Fold in raisins or crushed nuts into the batter for extra texture
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Make Pineapple Cupcakes by dividing batter into muffin tins and adjusting bake time to 20–22 minutes
Pairing Suggestions
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Serve with coffee or chai tea for a cozy dessert moment
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Pair with grilled pineapple slices for extra fruit-forward flavor
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days
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Freeze: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months
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To Serve from Frozen: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bring to room temperature before enjoying
Popular Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, but it must be very finely chopped and juicy. Add extra liquid if needed to match the canned pineapple’s moisture.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen and the frosting melds into the cake.
Can I use a hand mixer for the batter?
It’s not necessary—this cake mixes easily by hand. Just don’t overmix to avoid a dense texture.