There’s something magical about a homemade cake that’s both incredibly moist and bursting with tropical flavor. This Moist and Delicious Pineapple Cake is everything you want in a dessert—soft, sweet, and perfectly fruity. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a potluck, or just because you’re craving something delicious, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

I can’t tell you how many times this recipe has saved me when I needed a quick and impressive dessert. With simple ingredients and an easy one-bowl method, you’ll have a rich, flavorful cake that stays moist for days. And the best part? You don’t need any fancy mixers or special techniques—just mix, bake, and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Cake

Incredibly Moist: Thanks to the natural juices from the pineapple, this cake stays soft and fresh
Easy One-Bowl Recipe: No complicated steps or special equipment—just mix and bake
Naturally Sweet & Fruity: The crushed pineapple adds just the right amount of natural sweetness and tropical flavor
Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it plain, with a glaze, or topped with whipped cream—it’s versatile and always delicious

What Does This Pineapple Cake Taste Like?

Imagine biting into a cake that’s soft, fluffy, and melts in your mouth with every bite. The pineapple gives it a naturally sweet, slightly tangy flavor that balances beautifully with the light vanilla undertones. It’s like a tropical vacation in dessert form! If you love pineapple upside-down cake, this recipe is like its simpler, fuss-free cousin—just as delicious but way easier to make.

Ingredients for Moist Pineapple Cake

To keep this recipe simple and fuss-free, we’re using pantry staples plus one star ingredient—crushed pineapple!

Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
½ cup vegetable oil

Optional Toppings

½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Powdered sugar for dusting
Cream cheese frosting (recipe below!)

Tools You’ll Need

Large mixing bowl
Whisk or wooden spoon
9×13-inch baking dish
Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)
Cooling rack

How to Make Moist Pineapple Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, crushed pineapple (with juice), and vegetable oil. Stir everything together until well combined. The batter will be thick and slightly lumpy—that’s perfect!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell filling your kitchen will be incredible!

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool completely before slicing. If you’re adding frosting, make sure the cake is completely cool first

Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional but Highly Recommended!)

This cake is delicious on its own, but if you want to take it to the next level, a simple cream cheese frosting is the way to go!

Ingredients

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth
Add powdered sugar and vanilla, and continue beating until creamy
Spread over the cooled cake and enjoy!

What to Serve with Pineapple Cake

This cake is delicious all on its own, but if you want to get creative, try serving it with

A scoop of vanilla ice cream – The combination of warm cake and cold ice cream is heavenly
Fresh berries – Strawberries or raspberries add a nice contrast of tartness
Toasted coconut flakes – For an extra tropical twist

Tips for the Best Pineapple Cake

Use crushed pineapple with juice – This keeps the cake extra moist and flavorful
Don’t overmix the batter – Stir just until combined to keep the cake soft
Let it cool completely before frosting – Otherwise, the frosting will melt
Store leftovers properly – Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week

How to Store and Freeze Pineapple Cake

Storing

Room Temperature: If unfrosted, store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
Refrigerated: If frosted, store in the fridge for up to 1 week

Freezing

Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes! Just finely chop fresh pineapple and include the juices for moisture. You’ll need about 2 ½ cups

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop

What can I substitute for vegetable oil?

You can use melted butter, coconut oil, or even unsweetened applesauce for a slightly healthier option

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a simple yet show-stopping dessert, this Moist and Delicious Pineapple Cake is a must-try. It’s tropical, sweet, and irresistibly soft—everything you want in a homemade treat!

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear from you! Leave a review, snap a picture, and share it on Pinterest. Happy baking! 🍍💛

More Delicious Recipes to Try

If you love this pineapple cake, here are more easy and delicious recipes to add to your baking list!

Vanilla Raisin Loaf Cake – A soft and lightly spiced loaf with juicy raisins
Hamburger Potato Casserole – A comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners
Cheese Bread – A cheesy, buttery bread that’s impossible to resist

Let me know in the comments if you try any of these recipes! Happy baking!