Description

This Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is soft, moist, and bursting with tropical flavor. Made with crushed pineapple and topped with a rich coconut glaze, it’s the perfect easy dessert for potlucks, parties, or a taste of sunshine any day of the year.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice (undrained)
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Topping (Optional but Recommended):

1/2 cup unsalted butter
3/4 cup sugar
2/3 cup evaporated milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup shredded coconut

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add eggs, vanilla, and crushed pineapple (with juice) into the dry mix. Stir until just combined. Don’t overmix—it should be a little lumpy.

Step 4: Fold in Nuts

If using, gently fold in chopped pecans or walnuts. They add a beautiful crunch!

Step 5: Bake

Pour batter into the greased dish and bake for 30–35 minutes. Check with a toothpick—when it comes out clean, you’re good.

Step 6: Make the Coconut Topping

While the cake bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add sugar, evaporated milk, and vanilla. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Once thickened, stir in shredded coconut.

Step 7: Pour and Soak

While the cake is still hot, pour the topping evenly over it. Let it soak in as the cake cools.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Let the cake cool completely before slicing. The topping will thicken and settle

Notes

Use pineapple in juice, not syrup for the right sweetness and texture—syrup can make the cake overly sweet and soggy.
Optional topping, but worth it! The coconut glaze soaks into the cake and adds incredible richness and texture
Want to make it vegan? Swap eggs for flax eggs and use plant-based butter and milk in the topping.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Category: dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Hawaiian-American