🍰 Pineapple Heaven Cake 🍍

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 12-16 slices
Best Time to Serve: Ideal for summer gatherings, family get-togethers, or as a sweet treat after any meal!

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Ingredients

1. For the Cake:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (180g)

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp baking soda

• ¼ tsp salt

• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (115g)

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (save the juice for later)

• ½ cup sour cream (120g)

• ¼ cup coconut flakes (optional, for added texture)

2. For the Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened (225g)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (115g)

• 3 ½ cups powdered sugar (420g)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 tbsp reserved pineapple juice (from the can)

• ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for topping)

3. For Garnish (Optional):

• Extra coconut flakes

• Fresh pineapple slices or chunks

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Instructions

🔹 Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

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

3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).

4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.

6. Stir in the drained crushed pineapple and sour cream until evenly incorporated. If you're using coconut flakes, add them to the batter as well.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula.

🔹 Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

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

🔹 Step 3: Make the Frosting

1. While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting by beating the softened cream cheese and butter together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.

2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating until smooth and fluffy.

3. Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of the reserved pineapple juice. Continue to beat until the frosting is creamy and spreadable. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more pineapple juice until you reach the desired consistency.

🔹 Step 4: Frost the Cake

1. Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake using a spatula.

2. Garnish the frosting with chopped nuts (if using), extra coconut flakes, and a few pineapple slices or chunks for a tropical touch.

🔹 Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the frosting to set and the flavors to meld together.

2. Once chilled, slice the cake into squares and serve. This cake is best served cold, and it pairs wonderfully with a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade.

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Tips for the Perfect Pineapple Heaven Cake

• Pineapple Juice: Make sure to save the juice from the pineapple can to add to the frosting. It helps enhance the pineapple flavor in the frosting and makes it extra creamy.

• Cake Texture: Be sure to not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to the wet ingredients. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.

• Coconut Flakes: If you like coconut, feel free to add more coconut flakes to both the batter and the frosting for a stronger coconut flavor.

• Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch and richness to the cake, but you can skip them if you prefer a nut-free dessert.

• Tropical Twist: You can also add chopped mango or banana to the cake batter for a tropical fruit twist.

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Calories (estimated)

• 1 slice (1/12 of the cake): ~350-400 kcal (depending on the size of the slices and the exact amount of frosting used)

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Energy-Saving Tips

• Prepare the cake and frosting a day ahead of time and refrigerate overnight. This will give the cake plenty of time to set and makes it easier to serve.

• If you're short on time, consider using a store-bought frosting or whipped topping for a quicker option.

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Who Would Enjoy This?

• Tropical fruit lovers, especially those who enjoy pineapple and coconut-flavored desserts.

• Ideal for summer gatherings, potlucks, birthday parties, or any occasion that calls for a light, fruity dessert.

• Perfect for those who love cheesecake but want something a little different, with a lighter, cake-like texture.