pineapple cake

Pineapple cake is a dessert that brings a tropical and fresh touch at any time of the year. This classic recipe, particularly flavorful, combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with a fluffy base, offering an unforgettable taste experience. Very popular in various cultures, pineapple cake has become a symbol of hospitality in many households, often served on special occasions. Moreover, it is a simple recipe that can be made quickly, without requiring advanced baking skills.

Next, I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect, soft, and aromatic pineapple cake. Whether you serve it alongside a scoop of ice cream or on its own, this cake will surely impress everyone.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

- 500 g pineapple slices (fresh or canned)
- 180 g sugar (for caramelizing)
- 110 g butter (at room temperature)
- 380 g sugar (for the batter)
- 130 g flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- a pinch of salt
- 1 packet of vanilla (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- juice from one lemon
- 2-3 tablespoons of milk

Preparation

1. Caramelizing the sugar: In a non-stick pan, add the 180 g of sugar and place it over medium heat. Let the sugar melt, stirring gently, until it turns golden. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt caramel will give an unpleasant taste. Once the sugar has melted, pour it evenly over the bottom of a baking tray (30x20 cm). Let it cool completely.

2. Preparing the pineapple: If using fresh pineapple, slice it thinly, and if using canned pineapple, drain the slices well from the juice. Arrange the pineapple slices on top of the caramel, cut in half, and drizzle with lemon juice. The acidity of the lemon juice will balance the sweetness of the cake and add a note of freshness.

3. Preparing the batter: In a large bowl, beat the butter at room temperature with 380 g of sugar until you obtain a fluffy, light-colored cream. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

4. Mixing the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and vanilla. Sifting the flour is important to avoid lumps in the batter.

5. Combining the ingredients: Add half of the flour mixture to the butter cream and gently mix with a spatula. Then add the milk and the remaining flour, mixing carefully until the ingredients are fully integrated. Avoid overmixing, as the batter will become dense.

6. Baking: Pour the batter over the pineapple slices in the tray and level the surface with a spatula. Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for about 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle of the cake comes out clean.

7. Cooling and inverting: Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the tray for 10-15 minutes. Then, using a large plate, carefully invert the cake so that the caramelized pineapple slices are on top.

Practical tips

- Burnt sugar: If you are inexperienced in caramelizing, you can use brown sugar, which is more forgiving to burning.
- Nut or almond variation: You can add chopped pecans or almonds on top of the pineapple slices before pouring the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Serving: The cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Drizzle with caramel sauce for a decadent dessert!
- Complementary drinks: This cake pairs beautifully with fruit tea or a sweet wine, which will highlight the flavors of the caramelized pineapple.

Nutritional benefits

Pineapple is an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system. It is also rich in fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. The olive oil and butter in the recipe provide healthy fats, while the eggs add quality protein. However, it is important to consume the cake in moderation, considering the sugar content.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen pineapple?
Yes, frozen pineapple is a good option! Make sure to let it thaw and drain well before use.

2. How can I store the cake?
The pineapple cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 4 days. You can serve it cold or warm it slightly in the oven.

3. Is it possible to make the cake without sugar?
Yes, you can experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but note that the final texture and taste may vary.

The pineapple cake is not just a delicious recipe, but also an opportunity to bring a bit of tropical sunshine into your kitchen. Whether you prepare it for a party, a family gathering, or simply to treat yourself, it will surely be a hit. Try it and enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: 500 g pineapple slices (fresh or canned) 110 g butter 380 g sugar 130 g flour 2 eggs 1 teaspoon baking powder a bit of milk (2-3 tablespoons) vanilla, salt, a lemon