A Moist Pineapple Dream Cake is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves a tropical twist in their baking. This cake is tender, fluffy, and infused with the sweet and tangy flavor of pineapple. With layers of homemade pineapple filling, soft cake, and a luscious cream cheese pineapple frosting, it delivers a balance of richness and freshness that makes it irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, holiday, or simply to treat yourself, this cake is sure to impress.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the cake step by step, from the batter to the frosting and filling, plus expert tips for success. Let’s dive into this dreamy pineapple dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This cake has three main components: the cake layers, the pineapple filling, and the cream cheese pineapple frosting. Using fresh ingredients will ensure your cake tastes vibrant and rich.
For the Cream Cheese Pineapple Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp pineapple juice (from the canned pineapple)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cake Layers
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream (or substitute plain Greek yogurt)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, well-drained (reserve 2 tbsp juice)
For the Pineapple Filling
- 1 ½ cups crushed pineapple (with juice)
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Cake Layers
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. You can also line the bottoms with parchment paper for easier removal.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy. This step adds air to the batter, ensuring a tender cake.
- Incorporate eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add sour cream and flour mixture: Mix in sour cream, then gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense cake.
- Fold in pineapple: Stir in the drained crushed pineapple and reserved juice. This gives the cake its signature tropical flavor.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Pineapple Filling
- In a medium saucepan, combine crushed pineapple (with juice), sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5–7 minutes).
- Remove from heat and allow to cool before spreading between the cake layers. This filling adds moisture and a burst of pineapple flavor.
Preparing the Cream Cheese Pineapple Frosting
- Beat cream cheese and butter together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until incorporated.
- Add pineapple juice and vanilla extract, then beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- If the frosting is too thick, add a little more pineapple juice. If it’s too thin, add extra powdered sugar until it reaches spreading consistency.
Assembling the Pineapple Dream Cake
- Place the first cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
- Spread a layer of pineapple filling evenly across the surface, then add a thin layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
- Add the second cake layer and repeat with filling and frosting.
- Place the third cake layer on top. Cover the entire cake with the cream cheese pineapple frosting, smoothing it with a spatula.
- Decorate with piped swirls of frosting and garnish with pineapple slices, shredded coconut, or even maraschino cherries for a tropical finish.
Tips for the Best Pineapple Dream Cake
- Drain the pineapple well: Too much liquid can make the cake soggy. Always drain crushed pineapple before adding it to the batter.
- Room temperature ingredients: Using room temperature butter, eggs, and cream cheese ensures smooth mixing and prevents lumps in the batter or frosting.
- Don’t skip the filling: The pineapple filling not only enhances flavor but also adds extra moisture between layers.
- Cool cakes completely before frosting: If the cake is even slightly warm, the frosting may melt or slide off.
- For extra flair: Toasted coconut makes a beautiful garnish and pairs perfectly with pineapple.
- Make ahead: Both the cake layers and filling can be prepared a day in advance. Wrap cakes tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate the filling until assembly.
Serving Suggestions
- This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea, coffee, or even a chilled glass of pineapple juice.
- Serve it chilled for a refreshing summer dessert or at room temperature for a soft, comforting treat.
- For a festive presentation, garnish each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry on top.
Storing and Freezing
- Refrigeration: Because of the cream cheese frosting, store the cake in the refrigerator. Cover it with a cake dome or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. It stays fresh for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: The unfrosted cake layers freeze beautifully. Wrap each layer in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before assembling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, but you must cook and drain it thoroughly to reduce excess liquid. Canned pineapple is preferred because it provides consistent texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for sour cream in the cake?
Plain Greek yogurt works just as well, adding a slight tang and creaminess to the batter.
Can I make this cake as a sheet cake instead of layers?
Absolutely! Simply pour the batter into a 9×13-inch pan and bake for 35–40 minutes. You can spread the pineapple filling and frosting directly on top.
Why is my cake dense instead of fluffy?
Overmixing the batter or adding too much liquid from the pineapple can cause density. Be sure to fold the ingredients gently and drain pineapple well.
Can I make the frosting less sweet?
Yes, reduce the powdered sugar slightly and balance with more cream cheese or butter for a tangier, less sweet frosting.
Is this cake suitable for special occasions?
Definitely. Its elegant layers and tropical flavor make it perfect for birthdays, Easter, Mother’s Day, or any celebration where you want to wow your guests.
This Moist Pineapple Dream Cake combines tropical pineapple flavor with a rich cream cheese frosting to create a dessert that feels both luxurious and comforting. With a few simple techniques and a little patience, you can bake a show-stopping cake that’s perfect for sharing.