Pineapple Drizzle Cake

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Pineapple Drizzle Cake

Introduction

Pineapple Drizzle Cake is a tropical-inspired dessert that combines the sweetness of pineapple with a buttery, tender crumb. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a delightful treat after dinner. The drizzle on top enhances its flavor, making it irresistibly moist and delicious.

History of Pineapple Cake

Pineapple cakes have been enjoyed worldwide for centuries. In the 1900s, canned pineapple became widely available, leading to the invention of pineapple-based desserts. Pineapple upside-down cake became iconic in the U.S., while in Asia, pineapple cakes (often filled with pineapple jam) are a traditional treat. This drizzle cake is a modern twist, focusing on simplicity and moisture while preserving the tropical essence of pineapple

Pineapple-based cakes have a rich and diverse history, rooted in both tropical traditions and modern baking innovations. This Pineapple Drizzle Cake is a contemporary take on classic pineapple desserts, bringing out the sweet, tangy flavors in a moist and buttery loaf.

1. The Introduction of Pineapple in Baking

  • Pineapples were first introduced to Europe in the 15th century after Christopher Columbus brought them from South America.
  • By the 18th and 19th centuries, pineapples became a luxury fruit in European desserts.
  • Pineapple cakes started appearing in Hawaiian and American recipes in the early 20th century, after canned pineapple became widely available.

2. The Rise of Pineapple Cakes

  • The 1920s & 1930s saw a surge in pineapple upside-down cakes, a famous dessert created using canned pineapple slices.
  • In Taiwan and China, pineapple cakes (Fènglísū) became a traditional delicacy, often served during Lunar New Year.
  • In Western baking, pineapple-infused cakes, muffins, and bread became popular, leading to creations like the Pineapple Drizzle Cake.

3. Evolution into a Drizzle Cake

  • Drizzle cakes originated in Europe, particularly in British baking, where simple sponge cakes were enhanced with syrups or glazes.
  • By combining tropical pineapple with the drizzle cake technique, this recipe became a fusion of classic European and tropical flavors.

Why Pineapple Drizzle Cake Became Popular

Easy to Make – Requires simple ingredients but delivers big flavor.
Moist & Soft Texture – Thanks to the pineapple juice and yogurt.
Tropical & Refreshing – A perfect cake for warm-weather desserts.
A Twist on Classic Cakes – Combines elements of traditional drizzle cakes and pineapple desserts.

The Pineapple Drizzle Cake is a modern, tropical twist on classic baking, drawing inspiration from both traditional European drizzle cakes and pineapple-based desserts from around the world. Whether you enjoy it as a snack, a dessert, or a tea-time treat, this cake is a timeless favorite for pineapple lovers!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup (120ml) sour cream or yogurt
  • ½ cup (120ml) pineapple juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (150g) crushed or chopped pineapple (drained)

For the Drizzle:

  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp pineapple juice
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 4: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in the sour cream, pineapple juice, and vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold in the dry ingredients. Be careful not to overmix. Stir in the crushed pineapple gently.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 7: Make the Drizzle

Whisk powdered sugar, pineapple juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.

Benefits of Pineapple Drizzle Cake

  • Rich in Vitamin C – Pineapple boosts immunity and promotes glowing skin.
  • A Natural Energy Booster – The sugars provide quick energy.
  • A Moist and Satisfying Treat – The combination of butter, pineapple, and yogurt makes it incredibly soft.
  • No Artificial Sweeteners – Natural pineapple juice adds sweetness

1. Rich in Vitamin C (Boosts Immunity & Skin Health)

  • Pineapple is an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system, fight colds, and promote healthy, glowing skin by stimulating collagen production.

2. A Natural Energy Booster

  • The combination of natural sugars from pineapple and carbohydrates in the cake provides a quick energy boost, making it a great snack to keep you energized throughout the day.

3. Promotes Digestion & Gut Health

  • Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps break down proteins, aiding digestion and reducing bloating.
  • The yogurt or sour cream in the batter provides probiotics, which support gut health.

4. Keeps the Cake Moist Without Excess Fat

  • Instead of relying on excessive butter or oil, this cake gets its moisture from pineapple juice and yogurt, making it a lighter yet indulgent treat.

5. Heart-Healthy Ingredients

  • Pineapple has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the risk of heart disease.
  • The cake can be made with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.

6. Good for Bones & Joints

  • Pineapple contains manganese, which supports bone strength and helps reduce joint pain.

7. No Artificial Sweeteners

  • The natural sweetness of pineapple and a moderate amount of sugar make it a more natural dessert choice compared to heavily processed sweets.

8. Mood-Boosting & Stress-Relieving

  • Eating a tropical-flavored dessert like this boosts serotonin levels, improving mood and reducing stress.

9. Versatile & Easy to Customize

  • Can be made gluten-free by using almond or oat flour.
  • Can be made dairy-free with coconut yogurt or almond milk.
  • Pairs well with nuts for added protein and healthy fats.

This Pineapple Drizzle Cake is not just a treat—it’s a nutritious and comforting dessert packed with benefits for your immunity, digestion, energy levels, and overall well-being. Enjoy a slice guilt-free!

Nutrition (Per Slice – Approximate)

  • Calories: 280
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 30g

Based on a standard 10-slice loaf

  • Calories: 280
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 30g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Key Nutritional Highlights

Moderate Calories – A satisfying treat without being overly heavy.
Rich in Vitamin C – Supports immunity and skin health.
Good Source of Healthy Fats – From butter and eggs, helping with brain function.
Low in Fiber – Can be improved by using whole wheat or almond flour.
Balanced Sugar Levels – Mostly from natural pineapple, but can be reduced with honey or coconut sugar.

Ways to Make It Healthier

  • Use whole wheat flour for more fiber.
  • Replace some sugar with honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness.
  • Add nuts for extra protein and healthy fats.
  • Use coconut yogurt to make it dairy-free.

Serving and Presentation

  • Serve warm with a cup of tea or coffee.
  • Add whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
  • Garnish with fresh pineapple chunks or toasted coconut.

Conclusion

Pineapple Drizzle Cake is a simple yet heavenly dessert, balancing tropical flavors with a rich, buttery texture. It’s a favorite among cake lovers, bringing joy in every bite. Whether for family gatherings or a cozy treat for yourself, this cake is always a winner

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