Why Southern Pineapple Cake Is a Must-Try Dessert
Southern Pineapple Cake is a delightful, juicy dessert that captures the heart of Southern hospitality with every bite. This cake combines moist pineapple-infused layers with a tender crumb and a lightly sweet frosting that perfectly balances tropical flavor and Southern charm. Whether served at a family gathering or a casual afternoon tea, Southern Pineapple Cake brings warmth, nostalgia, and a burst of fresh sweetness to your table, making it a must-try dessert for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A burst of tropical flavor: The pineapple perfectly brightens the rich cake base, giving it a fresh, lively taste.
- Moist and tender texture: Every slice stays wonderfully moist, thanks to the juicy pineapple and careful baking technique.
- Simple ingredients: You don’t need fancy or hard-to-find items, making this recipe easy and accessible.
- Perfect for gatherings: Its irresistible sweetness and charm make it a crowd-pleaser at family dinners or celebrations.
- Great for year-round enjoyment: Tropical flavor in a comforting cake makes it perfect any season, not just summer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple but essential ingredients come together to create a cake full of flavor, moisture, and beautiful color. Each one plays a special role, from providing the perfect crumb to balancing sweetness with tangy pineapple notes.
- Crushed pineapple: Fresh or canned, it adds natural sweetness and keeps the cake moist.
- All-purpose flour: The base that gives the cake structure and tenderness.
- Sugar: Sweetens the cake just enough without overpowering the pineapple.
- Butter: Adds richness and contributes to a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Eggs: Act as a binder and help in leavening for a light cake.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Essential leavening agents that make the cake rise beautifully.
- Sour cream or yogurt: Provides moisture and a subtle tang that complements the pineapple’s sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, aromatic note.
- Powdered sugar: For a sweet, creamy frosting that melts perfectly over the cake.
- Cream cheese (optional): If you prefer, add for a tangy frosting that pairs wonderfully with the pineapple.
Variations for Southern Pineapple Cake
One of the best parts about Southern Pineapple Cake is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to suit dietary needs or switch up the flavor, there are plenty of delicious ways to make this cake your own.
- Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake accessible without sacrificing texture.
- Coconut twist: Add shredded coconut to the batter or sprinkle on top for extra tropical flair.
- Vegan substitute: Replace eggs and dairy with plant-based alternatives like flax eggs and coconut yogurt.
- Spiced pineapple cake: Add cinnamon and nutmeg for a warming depth of flavor.
- Pineapple and pecan combination: Mix chopped pecans into the batter or sprinkle on frosting for a crunchy contrast.
How to Make Southern Pineapple Cake
Step 1: Prepare your ingredients
Start by draining the crushed pineapple well to prevent excess moisture from making the batter too wet. Measure out all ingredients so you’re ready to mix smoothly.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt to ensure even rising and flavor distribution.
Step 3: Cream the butter and sugar
Using a mixer, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy—this creates the delicate crumb texture essential to Southern Pineapple Cake.
Step 4: Add eggs and vanilla
Incorporate eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract, blending thoroughly after each addition for a smooth, homogenous mix.
Step 5: Combine pineapple and sour cream
Stir the drained pineapple into sour cream or yogurt to add moisture and tang, then mix this gently into the batter to keep the texture light.
Step 6: Fold dry ingredients into wet
Slowly add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, folding carefully to maintain the batter’s airy quality while ensuring everything is blended.
Step 7: Bake to golden perfection
Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake at a moderate temperature until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, ensuring a moist, baked-through cake.
Step 8: Frost and serve
Once cool, spread a gentle layer of cream cheese or powdered sugar frosting over the cake, then slice and enjoy your Southern Pineapple Cake.
Pro Tips for Making Southern Pineapple Cake
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps everything blend perfectly for a smooth batter.
- Don’t skip draining the pineapple: Too much juice can make the cake soggy or lead to uneven baking.
- Mix gently after adding flour: Overmixing can make the cake tough instead of tender.
- Allow cake to cool fully: Frozen or warm cake won’t hold frosting well and can melt it.
- Test for doneness early: Check with a toothpick to avoid overbaking, which dries the cake.
How to Serve Southern Pineapple Cake
Garnishes
Top your Southern Pineapple Cake with fresh pineapple slices, toasted coconut flakes, or a handful of chopped pecans to add visual appeal and extra flavor layers.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a fresh berry salad to balance sweetness with a bright, natural touch.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this cake as mini cupcakes for a party, layer it as a trifle with whipped cream and fruit, or cut into squares and arrange on a decorative platter for festive gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Southern Pineapple Cake tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and moist.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooled cake (frosting optional) in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to soften the cake and enhance flavors, but avoid overheating to prevent dryness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple works wonderfully, just be sure to chop it finely and drain any excess juice before adding it to the batter to maintain the right texture.
Is Southern Pineapple Cake suitable for freezing?
Yes, it freezes well. To preserve texture, freeze without frosting and add the frosting after thawing.
What frosting pairs best with Southern Pineapple Cake?
Cream cheese frosting is a classic choice, but a simple powdered sugar glaze or whipped cream topping also complements the cake beautifully.
Can I make this cake vegan?
With some substitutions like flax eggs and plant-based dairy alternatives, you can definitely enjoy a vegan version of Southern Pineapple Cake.
How long does Southern Pineapple Cake stay fresh?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, it stays fresh for up to 3 days; beyond that, freezing is recommended for best taste.
Final Thoughts
Southern Pineapple Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavor and tradition that’s both comforting and refreshingly bright. Easy to make and endlessly enjoyable, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep close for every special moment and simple craving alike. Give it a try and bring a delicious slice of Southern sweetness into your home.
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Southern Pineapple Cake
Southern Pineapple Cake is a moist and tender dessert combining juicy crushed pineapple with a soft crumb and lightly sweet frosting. This classic Southern cake offers a balanced tropical flavor with simple, accessible ingredients, perfect for family gatherings or casual afternoons, delivering warmth, nostalgia, and fresh sweetness in every bite.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free flour substitution)
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (or fresh pineapple, finely chopped and drained)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version)
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Frosting Ingredients
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (optional, for tangy frosting)
- 2–4 tablespoons milk or cream (to desired consistency)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Optional Add-ins and Garnishes
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (for coconut twist)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for pineapple and pecan combination)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (for spiced pineapple cake)
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to remove excess moisture. Measure out all ingredients and bring them to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and any optional spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to ensure even rising and flavor distribution.
- Cream the butter and sugar: Using an electric mixer, beat the room temperature butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes, to create a delicate crumb texture.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated for a smooth, homogenous batter.
- Combine pineapple and sour cream: Stir the drained pineapple into the sour cream or yogurt. Gently mix this into the batter to add moisture and a slight tang while keeping the batter light.
- Fold dry ingredients into wet: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, folding carefully with a spatula to maintain the batter’s airy quality without overmixing.
- Bake to golden perfection: Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch pan or two 9-inch round pans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake is lightly golden.
- Frost and serve: Allow the cake to cool completely. Prepare the frosting by beating powdered sugar with cream cheese (if using), milk or cream, and vanilla to a spreadable consistency. Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for best blending and texture.
- Drain the pineapple well to prevent sogginess or uneven baking.
- Mix gently after adding flour to avoid a tough cake.
- Allow cake to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting.
- Test for doneness early with a toothpick to avoid overbaking and dryness.
- For gluten-free options, use a trusted gluten-free flour blend.
- To make vegan, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based yogurt and butter alternatives.
- Freeze unfrosted cake for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before frosting.
- Enhance with toppings like fresh pineapple slices, toasted coconut flakes, or chopped pecans.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Southern Pineapple Cake, pineapple cake, tropical cake, moist cake, Southern dessert, pineapple dessert, easy pineapple cake, cream cheese frosting
