Golden Pineapple Moist Cake

Introduction:
Few desserts capture the sunshine of the tropics and the charm of home baking like the Golden Pineapple Moist Cake. Sweet, juicy chunks of pineapple nestle into a rich, buttery crumb—moist, tender, and golden brown. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or serving at festive gatherings, this cake is more than dessert—it’s a heartwarming hug on a plate.
History:
The pineapple has symbolized hospitality since the 1500s, when European explorers brought it back from South America. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake gained popularity in the 1920s when canned pineapple became widely available. Over the years, variations emerged, including this moist pineapple cake, beloved in many tropical and Southern kitchens. It’s a descendant of vintage “dump cakes” and butter cakes, but elevated by juicy fruit and deep flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream or yogurt
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- ¾ cup pineapple juice (from the can or fresh)
- ½ cup diced pineapple chunks (for topping)
Optional Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp pineapple juice
Instructions & Methods:
- Preheat Oven:
- Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour 9-inch round cake pans or use disposable aluminum pans like in the photo.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In another bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
- Add Eggs and Flavoring:
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Fold in Pineapple:
- Stir in the crushed pineapple and pineapple juice until just combined.
- Pour into Pans:
- Divide the batter among the prepared pans. Sprinkle the top with diced pineapple chunks.
- Bake:
- Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. The tops should be golden brown and springy.
- Cool and Glaze (Optional):
- Let the cakes cool. Mix glaze ingredients and drizzle on top for extra pineapple zing.
Formation & Presentation:
Serve each cake individually in the aluminum pans or flip them onto a serving plate for a rustic yet elegant look. Add a sprig of mint or a dollop of whipped cream for flair.
Lovers of the Cake:
This cake is adored by:
- Southern bakers who appreciate classic comfort desserts
- Tropical fruit lovers who crave juicy, sweet-tart flavor
- Grandmas and aunties passing down treasured recipes
- Modern bakers who want a fail-proof, crowd-pleasing cake
- Kids and adults alike, thanks to its light sweetness and moist texture
Nutritional Information (Per slice, assuming 12 servings):
- Calories: ~310
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Vitamin C: From pineapple, around 6% DV
Benefits:
- Mood Booster: Pineapple contains serotonin-boosting properties.
- Digestion Aid: Bromelain in pineapple helps with digestion.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Protects against inflammation and aging.
- Versatile Dessert: Easy to adapt for gluten-free or dairy-free diets.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Stays moist for days and freezes well.
Conclusion:
The Golden Pineapple Moist Cake isn’t just a sweet treat—it’s a celebration of sunshine, comfort, and shared joy. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or treating yourself, this cake never fails to impress with its beauty and flavor.