Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Dessert (Print Version)

Moist pineapple cake with a creamy, nutty topping brings a vibrant tropical flavor to any gathering.

# Ingredients:

→ Hawaiian Pineapple Cake

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
03 - 2 teaspoons baking soda
04 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
05 - 2 large eggs, at room temperature
06 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
07 - 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained

→ Cream Cheese Topping

08 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
09 - 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
10 - 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
11 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
12 - 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Set oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan, optionally lining the base with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt until fully incorporated.
03 - Create a well in the dry mixture; add eggs, vanilla extract, and the undrained crushed pineapple. Stir gently until blended, taking care not to overmix.
04 - Spread batter evenly in prepared pan. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean.
05 - Remove pan to a wire rack and allow cake to cool completely before applying the topping.
06 - Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Slowly add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing at low, then high, until frosting is fluffy.
07 - Spread topping over cooled cake. Sprinkle with chopped nuts if using. Slice and serve.

# Notes:

01 - Allow cake to cool entirely before frosting to maintain creamy topping texture.