Pineapple Pound Cake Recipe

Nothing quite says sunshine on a plate like Pineapple Pound Cake. This cheerful, buttery loaf is bursting with tropical pineapple flavor, its crumb tender and soft, with just the right amount of golden crisp at the edges. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, dessert at a gathering, or just sneaking a slice with your coffee, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser. Get ready to fall head over heels for a treat that’s as irresistible as it looks!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Pineapple Pound Cake lies in its straightforward, no-fuss ingredient list. Each component plays a key role in creating a cake that’s moist, flavorful, and completely unforgettable. Grab these pantry staples and prepare for baking bliss!

• Unsalted butter: Provides rich flavor and that melt-in-your-mouth texture you crave in a great pound cake.
• Sugar: Not just for sweetness, but also helps create a lovely caramelized crust.
• Large eggs: Give the cake structure and add richness—don’t skip them!
• Crushed pineapple: The true star—be sure to drain well for the perfect balance of moisture and pineapple zing.
• Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and makes the crumb oh-so-tender—don’t substitute regular milk!
• Vanilla extract: Lends warmth and rounds out the fruitiness beautifully.
• All-purpose flour: Keeps the cake sturdy enough to slice, but still soft and inviting.
• Baking powder: Offers just enough lift for a perfect rise every time.
• Salt: Sharpens flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.

How to Make Pineapple Pound Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and that beautiful golden color. Generously grease a loaf pan; nothing spoils the mood like a stuck cake, so don’t be shy with your butter or baking spray!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar. Take your time with this step—a good three to five minutes of mixing will result in a light, fluffy base that’s ready to embrace all that pineapple goodness.

Step 3: Add Eggs One by One

Add your eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps create a silky-smooth batter with a strong structure, setting you up for cake perfection.

Step 4: Stir in Pineapple and Vanilla

Next, gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and vanilla extract. At this point, inhale deeply—the delightful scent of pineapple and vanilla will have you swooning.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This little step keeps your leavening even and ensures no surprise lumps in the finished cake.

Step 6: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now for a baker’s trick: alternate adding the dry mixture and buttermilk to your creamed ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry. Mix gently, stopping once everything is just combined; overmixing leads to a tough cake, and we’re after tender!

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. This makes for even baking and a picture-perfect finish.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide your pan into the preheated oven and bake for 60–70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, and the kitchen smells gloriously sweet.

Step 9: Cool and Unmold

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. This resting period makes it easier to remove without breaking. Then, transfer the Pineapple Pound Cake to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely—it’s worth the wait!

How to Serve Pineapple Pound Cake

Garnishes

When it comes to topping your Pineapple Pound Cake, you have options galore! A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a little elegance, while whipped cream brings a bakery-style finish. For an extra pop of color, try scattering fresh pineapple chunks or a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top—you can’t go wrong!

Side Dishes

Pair slices of this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt for a dreamy dessert. For brunch, fresh berries or a tropical fruit salad on the side highlight the pineapple flavor in every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative: turn individual slices into Pineapple Pound Cake trifles layered with whipped cream and fruit, or cut thinner pieces to use as the base for a dramatic parfait. For parties, cut the loaf into bite-sized cubes and thread onto skewers with strawberries and kiwi for colorful, festive dessert kebabs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your Pineapple Pound Cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature—it will stay fresh and moist for up to three days. If your kitchen is especially warm or humid, consider refrigerating it to keep the cake at peak deliciousness.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the cooled cake (or individual slices) well in plastic wrap, then pop into a freezer-safe bag or container. It freezes beautifully for up to three months, making it a wonderful make-ahead treat for future cravings.

Reheating

If you prefer your pound cake warm, just pop a slice in the microwave for about 10 seconds or warm in a low oven. Frozen slices can be thawed overnight in the fridge or on the counter for an instant pick-me-up.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just be sure to crush the fresh pineapple and drain it well. Too much moisture can affect the texture, but the taste will be wonderfully vibrant.

Is it okay to substitute regular milk for buttermilk?

Buttermilk adds a signature tang and tender crumb, but if you’re out, mix 1/2 cup milk with 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes. This quick fix will do in a pinch!

Can Pineapple Pound Cake be made gluten-free?

It sure can! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. The recipe should work the same way, though texture may vary slightly.

Why does my cake sometimes sink in the middle?

A sunken cake usually means it was underbaked, overmixed, or your baking powder was expired. Always test with a toothpick and mix only until just combined for best results.

Can I add nuts or coconut to the batter?

Of course! Stir in up to 3/4 cup chopped toasted pecans, walnuts, or shredded coconut for added flavor and texture—it’s a delightful variation that makes the Pineapple Pound Cake even more special.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a treat that brings smiles, sunshine, and pure comfort to any table, give this Pineapple Pound Cake a try. It’s a classic recipe you’ll come back to again and again—I can’t wait for you to taste just how cheery and delicious homemade can be!