This Tropical Bliss Pineapple Cake is like a vacation for your taste buds. With its juicy pineapple, tangy lime, and a hint of coconut, it’s perfect for bringing a touch of the tropics into your home any time of year.
Let’s break down what makes this cake so special. The crushed pineapple is the star, providing that juicy, sunny flavor you crave. Granulated sugar sweetens the deal without overpowering it. The unsweetened shredded coconut adds texture and a touch of tropical flair. Lime juice brightens everything up with a zesty kick. Your trusty all-purpose flour forms the backbone of the cake, with baking powder and baking soda to help it rise just right. A pinch of salt enhances all these flavors. Unsalted butter keeps the cake moist and rich. Eggs bind everything together, and vanilla extract adds a subtle depth. Finally, sour cream makes the cake tender and adds a slight tang.
For a truly tropical experience, serve this cake with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted coconut. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a refreshing glass of iced tea with mint.
First, let's preheat that oven to 350°F (175°C) and get your 9-inch round cake pan greased up nicely. You don’t want your tropical masterpiece sticking to the pan, after all.
Next, grab a medium-sized bowl and combine your crushed pineapple, coconut, and lime juice. Give it a good mix and set it aside. This is going to be your flavor bomb.
In another bowl, mix together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This will ensure your cake rises perfectly.
Now, in a large mixing bowl, beat your butter and sugar together until they’re light and fluffy. This takes a bit of elbow grease but hang in there — it makes all the difference.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract to bring it all together.
It’s time to bring in the dry ingredients, but don’t dump them all at once. Gradually add them to the butter mixture, alternating with your sour cream. This helps keep everything smooth and well-mixed.
Finally, fold in that pineapple mixture you set aside earlier. Don't overdo it — just mix until everything looks combined.
Pour your batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top out with a spatula. Pop it in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This is always the hardest part because it smells so good, but trust me, it’s worth the wait.