Pineapple Pound Cake is a classic Southern dessert that brings tropical flavors to the rich, buttery world of pound cakes. Its moist crumb, sweet pineapple undertones, and a luscious glaze make it a delightful treat perfect for any season.
Whether served as a holiday dessert, a potluck favorite, or an everyday indulgence, this cake always makes an impression. What sets this cake apart is the infusion of crushed pineapple, which not only enhances flavor but also adds incredible moisture.
Originating from traditional pound cake recipes that use a pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, the Pineapple Pound Cake transforms the basic formula by adding fruit, flavorings, and often a decadent glaze. This modern twist makes it both familiar and refreshingly unique.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract (optional for extra flavor)
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup sour cream
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, well-drained
1/4 cup pineapple juice (reserved from can or added separately)
For the Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons pineapple juice (adjust for consistency)
1 tablespoon melted butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt or tube cake pan thoroughly, ensuring all crevices are coated to avoid sticking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light, fluffy, and pale yellow. This process usually takes 4–5 minutes and is essential for incorporating air into the batter.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts. The mixture should look smooth and creamy at this point.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix. Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and pineapple juice until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan and tap lightly to remove air bubbles. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Glaze
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack. Let it cool completely.
For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, pineapple juice, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled cake.
Variations
Coconut Pineapple Pound Cake: Add 1/2 cup of sweetened shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical coconut twist.
Pineapple Upside-Down Pound Cake: Layer pineapple rings and maraschino cherries in the bottom of the Bundt pan with brown sugar and melted butter before adding the batter.
Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake: Substitute half of the butter with cream cheese for a richer, tangier cake.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.
Cooking Note
Always ensure your ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature. This helps them blend more easily and contributes to the cake’s structure.
Drain the pineapple well; excess moisture can make the cake too dense or soggy.
The sour cream adds a creamy tang and enhances moisture—do not skip it.
Bundt pans with intricate designs require extra greasing and flouring to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Pair with a cup of coffee or a chilled glass of pineapple juice for a tropical-themed brunch.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves and pineapple wedges for a festive presentation.
Drizzle with caramel sauce or add crushed nuts on top for added texture and flavor.
Tips
Room Temperature Ingredients: Always bring your butter, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter.
Toothpick Test: Insert a toothpick in the thickest part of the cake. If it comes out clean or with dry crumbs, the cake is ready.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the cake tough. Mix until just combined.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze it (unglazed) for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to bring back the fresh-baked taste.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour – 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Slice, approx.)
Calories: 420
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 220mg
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Sugars: 38g
Fiber: 1g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes, but ensure it’s finely chopped or crushed and drained very well. Canned pineapple tends to be more consistent in moisture content.
Q: Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?
A: Absolutely! Plain Greek yogurt is a good substitute and provides a similar tangy richness.
Q: Why did my cake stick to the pan?
A: Pound cakes are dense and sticky, so use a generous coating of butter and flour or a baking spray with flour. Allow the cake to cool slightly before inverting.
Q: How long does the cake stay fresh?
A: It stays fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to 7 days refrigerated.
Q: Can I make this in loaf pans?
A: Yes, this recipe can be divided between two standard loaf pans. Reduce baking time to about 45–55 minutes.
Conclusion
Pineapple Pound Cake is a moist, rich, and vibrant dessert that balances the buttery decadence of traditional pound cake with the tropical brightness of pineapple. With a tender crumb, aromatic flavor, and glossy glaze, it’s a crowd-pleasing masterpiece perfect for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions.
Whether you stick to the classic or explore variations, this cake is sure to become a beloved recipe in your collection.