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Delicious Hawaiian Pineapple Cake topped with sweet pineapple slices.

Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

A moist, tender Hawaiian Pineapple Cake topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, capturing the essence of tropical paradise.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American, Hawaiian
Servings 12 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cake

  • 1 box yellow cake mix Offers a lovely sweetness and soft texture.
  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained Adds tropical brightness and moisture to the cake.
  • 3 large eggs Ensures richness and binds the ingredients together.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil Contributes to the cake's moist, tender crumb.
  • 1 cup shredded coconut Provides a delightful chewiness and aromatic quality.
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional) Adds a crunchy surprise and nutty flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the overall sweetness and brings warmth.

For the Frosting

  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened Forms a velvety base for the frosting.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Enriches the frosting, making it delightful.
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Sweetens the frosting to perfection.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract To deepen the flavorful notes in the frosting.
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk (if needed) Helps achieve the ideal frosting consistency.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the yellow cake mix, undrained crushed pineapple, eggs, and vegetable oil until just combined.
  • Gently fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans (if using).
  • Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.

Baking

  • Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Frosting

  • In a separate mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy.
  • Gradually add the powdered sugar and the teaspoon of vanilla extract, blending until well mixed.
  • If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Assembly

  • Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
  • Garnish with additional shredded coconut and chopped pecans if desired.

Notes

Measure ingredients accurately, avoid overmixing, and let the cake cool completely before frosting.
Keyword Cream Cheese Frosting, Hawaiian Pineapple Cake, Pineapple Dessert, Summer Cake, Tropical Cake