Southern Pineapple Cake: A Taste of Southern Sunshine 🌴🍰🍍
Ingredients:
For the Pineapple Cake Layers:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1 cup undrained canned crushed pineapple
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Pineapple Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter
– 8 ounces softened cream cheese
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup drained canned crushed pineapple
For Garnish (Optional):
– Fresh pineapple slices
– Maraschino cherries
– Toasted coconut flakes
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Pineapple Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the softened butter, vegetable oil, crushed pineapple, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until well combined and smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Bake the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
4. Make the Pineapple Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract and drained crushed pineapple until well incorporated.
5. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of pineapple cream cheese frosting over the top. Repeat with the remaining cake layers and frosting, stacking them on top of each other.
6. Frost the Cake: Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining pineapple cream cheese frosting, smoothing it out with a spatula for an even finish.
7. Garnish (Optional): Decorate the top of the cake with fresh pineapple slices, maraschino cherries, and toasted coconut flakes for a tropical touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve your Southern Pineapple Cake to your guests, and let them bask in the taste of Southern sunshine with every delightful bite!
