When it comes to baking, there's something uniquely satisfying about the aroma of a freshly baked pineapple cake filling your kitchen. Its tropical flavors combined with the sweetness of a rich, old-fashioned icing make for an irresistible dessert. This blog post will guide you through the simple yet effective 3-step process of making a delightful Pineapple Cake with Old-Fashioned Icing, ensuring you achieve perfection even if you're new to baking.
Ingredients for Pineapple Cake
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather the essential ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1⁄2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1⁄4 tsp salt
- 1⁄2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1⁄2 cup pineapple juice
- 1⁄4 cup crushed pineapple
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
🍍 Note: Fresh pineapple juice can be substituted with canned juice, but ensure it’s unsweetened.
Old-Fashioned Icing Ingredients
The icing is where the magic happens:
- 1 cup confectioner’s sugar
- 1⁄4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp pineapple juice
- 1⁄4 tsp vanilla extract
Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Here’s how to prepare your cake:
- Start by sifting together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy. This step is crucial for a light texture.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and pineapple juice to the wet mixture. Start and end with the dry mix to avoid lumps.
- Fold in the crushed pineapple and vanilla extract to enhance the tropical flavor.
Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9-inch round cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
📏 Note: Ensure your oven has reached the correct temperature; this helps with even baking.
Step 2: Baking the Cake
Slide the cake into the oven and bake for:
- Approximately 25-30 minutes for a toothpick inserted in the center to come out clean.
- Watch for golden brown edges, signaling it’s done.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven, and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
🌡️ Note: Cooling is key to prevent the cake from breaking when you apply the icing.
Step 3: Making and Applying the Icing
As your cake cools, let’s whip up the old-fashioned icing:
- Sift the confectioner’s sugar into a bowl to ensure smoothness.
- Add heavy cream, pineapple juice, and vanilla extract, then whisk until you achieve a spreadable consistency.
- Once the cake is completely cool, spread the icing evenly over the top. Allow some to drip down the sides for an authentic, rustic look.
🍽️ Note: If the icing is too thick, add more cream or pineapple juice; if too thin, more sugar will do the trick.
Wrapping up our delightful baking journey, making a Pineapple Cake with Old-Fashioned Icing is not just about following a recipe; it's about infusing your kitchen with joy and filling it with mouth-watering aromas. Through these three easy steps, you've explored how simplicity can lead to delightful results. Remember, the key to a great cake lies in precise measurements, a careful mixing process, and letting patience take its course with cooling and icing. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or to brighten an ordinary day, this cake serves as a reminder that homemade treats bring people together, fostering moments of happiness and satisfaction.
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
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Yes, canned pineapple can be used, but ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your batter.
How do I store Pineapple Cake with Old-Fashioned Icing?
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Store the cake in an airtight container or cake dome at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger cake?
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Yes, doubling the ingredients will work, but make sure you adjust the baking time accordingly as a larger cake will take longer to bake.
