Name: Pineapple Layer Cake Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: PT-486385H54M28S
Total time: PT-486385H54M28S
Cuisine: Americans
Ingredients: • 2 cups all-purpose flour• 2 teaspoons baking powder• 1/2 teaspoon salt• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar• 3 large eggs• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract• 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained• 1 cup buttermilk• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened• 4 cups confectioners’ sugar• 2 tablespoons pineapple juice• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract• Pinch of salt

Pineapple layer cakes have long been a beloved dessert, capturing the essence of tropical indulgence in every bite. This recipe takes the classic pineapple cake to new heights, delivering a moist, flavorful treat that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue or as the centerpiece of a celebratory gathering, this pineapple layer cake is a showstopper that’s sure to impress.

With its vibrant pineapple flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, it’s no wonder this pineapple layer cake has become a perennial favorite. The combination of sweet pineapple, fluffy cake layers, and creamy frosting creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and extraordinary, making it a go-to choice for anyone seeking a truly exceptional dessert.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓

What sets this pineapple layer cake apart is its irresistible balance of flavors and textures. The moist, dense cake layers are complemented by the light and airy pineapple frosting, creating a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, the recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it an accessible option for home bakers of all skill levels.

One of the best things about this pineapple layer cake is its versatility. It can be enjoyed as a dessert, a snack, or even a special breakfast treat. The make-ahead potential also makes it a great option for busy hosts who want to get a head start on their party planning. With its tropical-inspired flair and crowd-pleasing appeal, this pineapple layer cake is a true crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a new family favorite.

🛒 What You Need to Prepare Pineapple Layer Cake ❓

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

The beauty of this pineapple layer cake is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of sweet pineapple, rich butter, and tangy buttermilk creates the tropical-inspired flavor profile that has made pineapple cake recipes perennially popular.

📝 How to Make Pineapple Layer Cake Step-by-Step ❓

• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
• Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
• Step 3: In a large bowl, cream the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
• Step 4: Add the drained crushed pineapple and buttermilk to the butter mixture, alternating between the two and mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
• Step 5: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Step 6: In a large bowl, beat the 1 cup of unsalted butter until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, pineapple juice, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, mixing until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
• Step 7: Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of the pineapple frosting over the top. Top with the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting, creating a smooth, even finish.
• Step 8: Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set.

⏱️ Timing Overview

• Preparation time: 25 minutes
• Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
• Total time: 50-55 minutes

Compared to traditional pineapple upside-down cake which can take up to an hour to prepare, this pineapple layer cake saves you 10-15 minutes of your cooking time while delivering similar tropical flavors.

👩🏻‍⚕️ Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 501
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 71g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 216mg

These pineapple layer cakes provide approximately 25% of your daily carbohydrate requirements and 35% of your daily fat needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.

🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Reduced-fat option: Use low-fat or non-fat cream cheese in the frosting and substitute Greek yogurt for the buttermilk in the cake batter.
• Lower-carb version: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a low-carb flour blend and use a sugar substitute in place of the granulated sugar.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Substitute plant-based milk (such as almond or coconut milk) for the buttermilk and use a dairy-free butter or coconut oil in the frosting.
• Added protein: Mix in a scoop of vanilla protein powder to the frosting for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Boost vegetables: Grate or finely chop fresh carrots and fold them into the cake batter for added moisture and texture.

These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the pineapple layer cake.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Pair with a refreshing tropical fruit salad or a light, citrusy salad for a complete dessert.
• Complement the pineapple layer cake with a chilled glass of pineapple juice or a tropical-inspired cocktail for a truly indulgent experience.
• For a brunch or breakfast spread, serve the pineapple layer cake alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit.
• Create an elegant dessert platter with the pineapple layer cake, coconut macaroons, and mango-passion fruit sorbet.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a tough, dense cake texture. Be sure to mix the ingredients just until they are combined, avoiding the temptation to over-stir.
• Underbaking the cake: Underbaked cakes can be gummy and prone to sinking in the center. Always use a toothpick or cake tester to ensure the cakes are fully cooked through before removing them from the oven.
• Skipping the pineapple juice in the frosting: The pineapple juice adds a burst of flavor and helps to balance the sweetness of the confectioners’ sugar. Don’t omit this important ingredient.
• Frosting the cake while it’s still warm: Attempting to frost a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and become a mess. Make sure the cakes are completely cooled before assembling and frosting the cake.
• Forgetting to refrigerate the finished cake: The pineapple frosting needs to be chilled to set properly. Refrigerating the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving helps the frosting maintain its creamy texture.

🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe

These pineapple layer cakes retain their quality remarkably well:

• Refrigeration: Store the assembled and frosted cake in the refrigerator, covered with a cake dome or plastic wrap, for up to 5 days.
• Freezing unbaked: Wrap the unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before assembling and frosting the cake.
• Freezing baked: Allow the cake layers to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before assembling and frosting the cake.
• Reheating: To restore the texture of the cake, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes before serving.

❓ FAQs

Can I make the pineapple layer cake in advance?

Absolutely! The cake layers can be baked and frozen up to 3 months in advance. Simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before assembling and frosting the cake. You can also assemble the entire cake and refrigerate it for up to 5 days before serving.

Can I substitute the pineapple with a different fruit?

Yes, you can experiment with other tropical fruits like mango, papaya, or guava. Just be sure to adjust the sugar and liquid measurements accordingly, as different fruits have varying levels of sweetness and moisture content.

Is there a dairy-free or vegan version of this recipe?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be dairy-free or vegan. Use plant-based milk, such as almond or coconut milk, in place of the buttermilk, and substitute dairy-free butter or coconut oil for the butter in the frosting. You can also find dairy-free cream cheese alternatives to use in the frosting.

What if my cake layers come out uneven or domed?

If your cake layers are uneven or have a domed top, simply use a serrated knife to trim the tops flat before assembling the cake. This will ensure a smooth, even finish. If the cakes are particularly domed, you can also try baking them at a slightly lower temperature (325°F/165°C) for a bit longer to prevent excess rising.

Can I add any mix-ins or toppings to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can fold in shredded coconut, chopped macadamia nuts, or even a layer of sweetened cream cheese between the cake layers. For the topping, consider sprinkling the frosted cake with toasted coconut flakes, fresh pineapple slices, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Conclusion

These pineapple layer cakes represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a show-stopping dessert at a summer barbecue or a special breakfast treat on a leisurely weekend, they’re sure to impress with their moist, tropical-inspired goodness. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these pineapple layer cakes demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the baking and assembly process. So why not indulge in a slice of this tropical delight and let the flavors of the islands transport you to a world of culinary bliss?