Why Make This Recipe

Pineapple pound cake is a delicious treat that combines the richness of traditional pound cake with the tropical sweetness of pineapple. This cake is not only moist and flavorful but also brings a touch of sunshine to your dessert table. It’s perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee. Plus, it’s easy to make, so even beginner bakers can impress their family and friends.

How to Make Pineapple Pound Cake

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract (optional for extra flavor)
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup sour cream
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, well-drained
1/4 cup pineapple juice (reserved from can or added separately)
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons pineapple juice (adjust for consistency)
1 tablespoon melted butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preparation, Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt or tube cake pan thoroughly, ensuring all crevices are coated to avoid sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light, fluffy, and pale yellow. This usually takes 4–5 minutes and is essential for incorporating air into the batter.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts. The mixture should look smooth and creamy at this point.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix. Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and pineapple juice until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan and tap lightly to remove air bubbles. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack. Let it cool completely. For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, pineapple juice, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled cake.

How to Serve Pineapple Pound Cake

This pineapple pound cake can be served plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s lovely with fresh fruit on the side or a dollop of whipped cream. Feel free to slice and serve it for dessert, or enjoy it as a sweet snack during the day.

How to Store Pineapple Pound Cake

To store your pineapple pound cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. For freezing, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before serving.

Tips to Make Pineapple Pound Cake

Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for better mixing.
Do not overmix the batter once you add the flour, as this can make the cake dense.
Be sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid making the batter too wet.
Adjust the amount of pineapple juice in the glaze based on your preferred consistency.

Variation

You can experiment by adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for extra crunch. Another variation is to replace the almond extract with coconut extract for a tropical twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to finely chop it and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

2. What can I do if my cake is too dense?
If the cake turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing. Make sure to mix just until combined and follow the instructions closely next time.

3. Is it necessary to use the glaze?
The glaze is optional, but it adds a nice sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the cake. If you prefer, you can serve the cake plain.