Irresistible Pineapple Dream Cake – A Sweet Tropical Delight

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By Gianna Poulef

Pineapple Dream Cake

Thank you so much for stopping by my kitchen today! I’m thrilled to share with you one of my family’s all-time favorite desserts: Pineapple Dream Cake. Bursting with sunshine flavor and a dreamy soft crumb, this cake is as comforting as it is delightful. If you’re someone who loves a moist, fruity cake that feels like a hug from the tropics, you’re in the right place.

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Overview of Recipe Content

What is Pineapple Dream Cake?
This cake is a light, tropical-inspired dessert that combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with a soft, moist cake base. It’s quick to whip together and perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or when you just need a little slice of sunshine in your day.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Super moist and tender.
  • Sweet and tangy tropical flavor.
  • Only a few pantry-friendly ingredients.
  • Perfect make-ahead dessert.

What It Tastes Like:
Imagine a fluffy, slightly caramelized cake with sweet bursts of pineapple in every bite. It’s refreshing, indulgent, and yet surprisingly light.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

This Now, Make It Later!
  • 2 cups crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda

Tools Needed:

  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand whisk or stand mixer
  • 9×9-inch baking pan (or similar)
  • Cooling rack

Suggested Substitutions:

  • Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.
  • Use whole wheat flour for a slightly denser, nuttier cake.
  • Fold in shredded coconut for extra tropical flair.

How to Make Pineapple Dream Cake

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour your baking pan.
  2. Mix dry ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda.
  3. Add pineapple – Stir in the crushed pineapple (make sure it’s drained well, but leave a little juice for moisture). The batter will be thick but luscious.
  4. Bake – Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  5. Cool & enjoy – Let it rest for 10 minutes, then cool on a rack before slicing.

The aroma of warm pineapple cake filling the kitchen is pure magic—I promise you’ll be tempted to cut in before it cools!

What to Serve with Pineapple Dream Cake

  • A dollop of fresh whipped cream.
  • A scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream.
  • Fresh fruit like mango or strawberries for a vibrant side.
  • Try it chilled with iced coffee or hot tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Tips for Making It Perfect

  • Don’t overmix – Mix just until combined to keep the cake fluffy.
  • Drain pineapple well – Too much juice can make the cake gummy.
  • Add texture – Toasted coconut or chopped nuts sprinkled on top before baking make a lovely crunchy contrast.

Storage Instructions

  • Room temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days.
  • Fridge: Keeps fresh for 5 days when wrapped tightly.
  • Freezer: Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
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General Information

The Pineapple Dream Cake has roots in classic Southern potluck recipes from the 1960s and 70s, when canned pineapple was a pantry staple. It’s a nostalgic treat that never fails to bring smiles. Perfect for spring, summer, or whenever you crave sunshine on your plate!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes! Just finely chop it and drain the excess juice.

2. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust baking time to 40–45 minutes.

3. Can I frost Pineapple Dream Cake?
Yes! Cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with this cake.

4. Is this cake dairy-free?
Yes, as written—no butter or milk needed.

5. Can I make cupcakes with this batter?
Yes—bake in a muffin tin for 18–20 minutes.

Conclusion

And there you have it—your very own Pineapple Dream Cake, a soft, sunny, and nostalgic dessert that’s guaranteed to brighten your day. If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy these tropical-inspired treats from my kitchen:

Happy baking, friends! Don’t forget to pin this recipe to your Pinterest board and share it with your loved ones.

Interactive Elements

I’d love to see your creations! If you make this Pineapple Dream Cake, leave me a comment below and let me know how it turned out. Even better—share a photo on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram. Your kitchen wins always brighten my day.

Nutritional Information (per slice, 9 servings)

CaloriesCarbsSugarFatProteinFiberSodium
21045g24g2g3g2g120mg
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Irresistible Pineapple Dream Cake – A Sweet Tropical Delight


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  • Author: Poulef
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 9 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Pineapple Dream Cake is a moist, tropical-inspired dessert made with crushed pineapple and pantry staples. Sweet, soft, and perfect for any occasion!


Ingredients

Scale

2 cups crushed pineapple, drained

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch pan.

2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda.

3. Fold in the drained crushed pineapple until well combined.

4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

5. Cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add shredded coconut or chopped pecans before baking.

Serve with whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh fruit for a tropical twist.

This cake is naturally dairy-free.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 2g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
Irresistible Pineapple Dream Cake – A Sweet Tropical Delight
Gianna Poulef
CEO, Chef & Recipe Creator at BLYNO LLC | Website

I’m Gianna Poulef from Poulef Recipes. I love sharing perfected dishes from my kitchen. I’m sure they’ll earn a spot in your heart. Let’s savor this journey together!.

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