Pineapple Juice Cake is a refreshing, moist, and tropical-inspired cake that’s packed with the natural sweetness and tanginess of pineapple. It’s perfect for a summer dessert or anytime you want a sweet, fruity treat. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for you:
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or white cake mix)
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (reserve the rest for the glaze)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional, for added texture and flavor)
For the Pineapple Glaze:
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (from the can of crushed pineapple)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or spray with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Cake:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, 1/2 cup pineapple juice, vegetable oil, eggs, drained crushed pineapple, vanilla extract, and shredded coconut (if using).
- Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined and smooth. You can use an electric mixer on low speed for about 2 minutes, or stir by hand.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
3. Bake the Cake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the Pineapple Glaze:
- While the cake is cooling, make the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of pineapple juice, granulated sugar, and butter.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Continue to simmer for about 3-5 minutes, until the glaze thickens slightly.
5. Glaze the Cake:
- Once the cake has cooled, poke holes all over the top of the cake using a fork or skewer (this helps the glaze soak into the cake).
- Pour the warm pineapple glaze evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
6. Serve:
- Let the cake sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the glaze before serving. You can chill the cake in the refrigerator for an hour for a colder, firmer texture.
- Slice and enjoy! You can also top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Tips:
- Extra Flavor: For even more pineapple flavor, you can add a bit of crushed pineapple or pineapple tidbits to the batter along with the juice.
- For a Frosted Version: If you prefer a frosted cake, cream cheese frosting or a simple whipped topping pairs wonderfully with the pineapple flavor.
- Optional Coconut Garnish: Sprinkle extra shredded coconut on top of the cake after glazing for a tropical touch.
This Pineapple Juice Cake is moist, flavorful, and the perfect combination of sweet and tangy. It’s sure to be a crowd favorite, bringing a little taste of the tropics to your table! Enjoy!