Moist Pineapple Cake

Instructions
For the Cake:
1. Preheat and Prepare:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
3. Add Wet Ingredients:

Stir in the can of crushed pineapple along with its juice, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until all ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
4. Fold in Extras:

If using, gently fold in chopped pecans or shredded coconut for a delightful added texture.
5. Bake:

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth it out evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the cake should feel springy to the touch.
6. Cool:

Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
For the Frosting:
1. Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese:

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add Sugar and Vanilla:

Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated. If you want a hint of extra pineapple flavor, you can mix in a tablespoon of pineapple juice at this stage.
3. Frost the Cake:

Once the cake has completely cooled, generously spread the frosting over the top and sides of the cake. For a decorative finish, sprinkle with more chopped pecans or shredded coconut, if desired.
Tips for Success
Don’t Drain the Pineapple: The pineapple juice is crucial for adding moisture to the cake, so be sure to use the entire can, juice and all.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and other ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This helps the batter come together smoothly and ensures even baking.
Add a Pineapple Glaze: For even more pineapple flavor, you can brush the cake with a simple pineapple glaze made by simmering pineapple juice with a bit of sugar until it thickens. This adds an extra layer of moisture and tanginess to the cake.
Make It Ahead: This cake is perfect for making ahead of time, as it gets even more moist after sitting for a day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Conclusion
This Moist Pineapple Cake is a tropical treat that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its tender crumb, rich pineapple flavor, and creamy frosting make it a dessert that everyone will love, whether it’s for a special celebration or just a sweet treat at the end of a long day. Easy to make and packed with natural sweetness, this cake will transport your taste buds to a sunny paradise with every bite. So, grab a can of pineapple and get ready to bake the ultimate tropical dessert!