Hawaiian Pineapple Cake 🍰🍍

Suggested Meal Time: Ideal for a tropical dessert after lunch or dinner, or as a treat for parties and gatherings.

Ingredients:

For the Pineapple Cake:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon coconut extract (optional, for extra tropical flavor)

• 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve the juice)

• ½ cup sour cream

• 1/3 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)

For the Pineapple Glaze:

• ¼ cup pineapple juice (reserved from the can)

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Whipped Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon shredded coconut, toasted (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Cake Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This will help create a tender cake texture.

2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and coconut extract (if using).

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

2. Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and shredded coconut, making sure everything is well combined but not overmixing the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

• Bake for 28-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean and the edges are golden brown.

• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Pineapple Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

2. Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the pineapple glaze evenly over the top, allowing it to soak in a bit. This adds a sweet and tangy finish to the cake.

Step 7: Prepare the Whipped Topping

1. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form.

2. Be careful not to overbeat the cream; you want it to hold its shape but still be smooth and light.

Step 8: Assemble and Serve

1. Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cooled cake.

2. Garnish with toasted shredded coconut, if desired, for a beautiful and flavorful touch.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

• Slice the cake into wedges and serve. The combination of pineapple, coconut, and a light whipped topping gives it a tropical, refreshing flavor perfect for any occasion.

Tips on Using Energy-Efficient Devices:

• To save energy, try baking multiple items at once if possible, so your oven isn't in use for just one cake.

• When whipping the cream, use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer for less energy consumption.

Who Would Benefit From This Dish:

• This cake is perfect for anyone who loves tropical flavors, especially pineapple and coconut. It’s a wonderful dessert for summer, family gatherings, or any celebration that could use a little tropical flair.

Enjoy your Hawaiian Pineapple Cake! 🍰🍍