Southern Pineapple Cake Recipe

This Southern Pineapple Cake is moist, tender, and loaded with tropical flavor, all topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting. It’s one of those easy-to-make, old-fashioned cakes that’s perfect for a family gathering or celebration.

The natural sweetness of crushed pineapple pairs beautifully with the richness of the cream cheese, making each bite melt in your mouth. It’s a true Southern classic, bursting with flavor in every slice!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Spatula
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients Overview

For the Cake:

• Crushed Pineapple: Adds sweetness, moisture, and a bright, tropical flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: Creates structure and stability for the cake.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness while balancing the pineapple’s tartness.
• Eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cake rise for a light, fluffy texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor and adds warmth.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• Cream Cheese: Makes a smooth, tangy, and rich frosting.
• Butter: Adds creaminess and a hint of savory richness.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting and creates a smooth texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Complements the cream cheese with added warmth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

For the Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of baking soda.
3. Add Wet Ingredients:
   Add two large eggs, 1 can (20 oz) of crushed pineapple (including juice), and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until well combined.
4. Bake the Cake:
   Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Cool the Cake:
   Allow the cake to cool completely in the baking dish before frosting.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter:
   In a medium bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of softened butter until creamy and smooth.
2. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla:
   Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fluffy.
3. Frost the Cake:
   Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.

Recipe Tips

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smooth frosting and even cake texture, allow the cream cheese, butter, and eggs to come to room temperature.
• Do Not Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Optional Garnish: Sprinkle toasted coconut or chopped pecans on top of the frosting for added texture and flavor.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• Fresh Pineapple Slices: Complements the cake’s tropical flavor.
• Iced Tea: A cold, refreshing iced tea pairs perfectly with this sweet, Southern dessert.
• Coffee: A cup of coffee balances the cake’s sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake and frost the cake a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Can I use fresh pineapple?
Yes, but make sure to finely chop and drain it well before adding to the batter.

How should I store leftovers?
Cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Serving Suggestions

• Top with Fresh Berries: Strawberries or blueberries make a beautiful addition.
• Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, a scoop of ice cream goes wonderfully with this cake.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 large eggs
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, with juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and baking soda. Add eggs, crushed pineapple (with juice), and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
3. Pour batter into the baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
4. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fluffy.
5. Spread frosting over cooled cake, slice, and enjoy!

This Southern Pineapple Cake

This Southern Pineapple Cake is moist, tender, and loaded with tropical flavor, all topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting. It’s one of those easy-to-make, old-fashioned cakes that’s perfect for a family gathering or celebration.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• 9x13-inch baking dish
• Spatula
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  

• For the Cake:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 large eggs
• 1 can 20 oz crushed pineapple, with juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 8 oz cream cheese softened
• 1/2 cup butter softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
• In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and baking soda. Add eggs, crushed pineapple (with juice), and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
• Pour batter into the baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
• Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fluffy.