Indulge in the luscious flavors of this tropical-inspired cake! With its tender crumb, rich pineapple filling, and tangy-sweet glaze, the Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a crowd-pleaser for parties, picnics, or simply satisfying your dessert cravings.
Ingredients Breakdown
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cake. For a lighter texture, sift the flour before measuring.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cake rise beautifully.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and ensures a tender, moist crumb. Allow it to reach room temperature for easy creaming.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and aids in the creaming process for a fluffy texture.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together while adding moisture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Complements the pineapple’s tropical notes with a warm, aromatic touch.
- ½ cup sour cream: Creates a moist, dense texture while balancing sweetness with a slight tang.
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained: Infuses the cake with fruity flavor and moisture. Draining is crucial to prevent excess liquid.
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar: Dissolves smoothly to create a silky glaze.
- 2 tbsp pineapple juice: Enhances the pineapple flavor while thinning the glaze for a perfect drizzle.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and lightly flour a loaf pan (9×5 inches) to prevent sticking. Alternatively, line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent for consistent rising.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale yellow. This step is crucial for incorporating air, which contributes to a tender texture.
- Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for a fragrant base.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently to avoid overworking the batter, which can result in a dense cake.
- Fold in Pineapple:
- Using a spatula, gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple. This ensures an even distribution of fruit without deflating the batter.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top for an even bake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and pineapple juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more juice or sugar as needed.
- Finish with Glaze:
- Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Let it set for a few minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions and Tips
- Portions: This cake yields 8 generous slices, perfect for a small gathering or an indulgent treat.
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Optional Additions: Add shredded coconut or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Pairing Ideas: Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the tropical vibes.
Nutritional Information (per slice):
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
Enjoy this delightful treat that’s sure to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise!