This easy cake works well for family meals and small parties. If you like moist baked treats, you may also enjoy a similar simple dessert like the moist carrot cake cookies recipe which uses the same idea of adding fruit and moisture for a tender crumb.
Why make this recipe
This cake is simple, moist, and full of pineapple flavor. It uses common ingredients and gives a bright, sweet finish that many people enjoy.
How to make Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake
Mix the batter gently, fold in the drained crushed pineapple, bake until a toothpick is clean, then cool and glaze. Follow the Ingredients and Directions below for exact amounts and steps.
Ingredients :
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1/2 cup icing sugar
- 2 tbsp pineapple juice
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking from the start.
- Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. This step prevents sticking, ensuring your cake releases effortlessly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt. This step distributes leavening agents evenly, crucial for a light cake texture.
- In a large bowl, cream ½ cup softened unsalted butter with 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Notice the mixture’s pale color and airy texture, indicating it’s ready for the next step.
- Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in ½ cup sour cream. This brings moisture, creating a tender crumb while enhancing flavor.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently to avoid overmixing. The batter should be thick and smooth.
- Carefully fold in 1 cup drained crushed pineapple. Its juicy sweetness elevates the cake’s tropical aroma and moist texture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake bakes, whisk together ½ cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons pineapple juice until smooth.
- Allow the cake to cool before glazing. Pour the glaze over the cooled cake, letting it trickle attractively down the sides. Enjoy the sweet, tropical notes of your Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake!
How to serve Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake
Slice the cake and serve at room temperature. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra richness. A few fresh pineapple chunks or a mint leaf make a nice touch on each plate.
How to store Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake
Cover the cooled cake with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Keep at room temperature up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before serving.
Tips to make Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake
- Measure flour by spooning into the cup and leveling the top to avoid a dry cake.
- Do not overmix after adding flour; mix until just combined.
- Drain the crushed pineapple well to keep the batter from getting too thin.
- For a different texture, fold in 1/2 cup chopped pecans or coconut flakes. You can learn other simple breakfast and cake ideas like the Cracker Barrel pancake recipe to expand your menu.
Variation
- Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Stir in 1/2 cup chopped nuts for crunch.
- Use a cream cheese glaze instead of the pineapple glaze for a richer topping.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a boxed cake mix instead of making from scratch?
A: Yes. Follow the box directions and fold in drained crushed pineapple and some sour cream for moisture.
Q: Do I need to drain the pineapple?
A: Yes. Drain well. Too much juice will make the batter too thin and change baking time.
Q: Can I make cupcakes with this batter?
A: Yes. Fill liners about two-thirds full and bake 18-22 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Q: Can I replace sour cream with yogurt?
A: Yes. Plain Greek yogurt works well and gives similar moisture.
Conclusion
For another slow-cooker take on a comfort cake, see this Almost Heaven Cake slow cooker version which shows a different method. If you want an alternate pineapple cake example and ideas, check this Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake example recipe.

Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Spoon into the cup and level off to prevent a dry cake.
- 1 tsp baking powder Distributes evenly for a light texture.
- 1 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened Should be at room temperature.
- 1 cups white sugar
- 2 large eggs Add one at a time.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 0.5 cups sour cream Brings moisture and flavor.
- 1 cups crushed pineapple, well-drained Drain well to avoid a thin batter.
Glaze
- 0.5 cups icing sugar
- 2 tbsp pineapple juice Mix until smooth.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in the sour cream until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently.
- Fold in the drained crushed pineapple carefully.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Glazing
- While the cake is baking, whisk together icing sugar and pineapple juice.
- Allow the cake to cool before glazing.
- Pour the glaze over the cooled cake.
Serving
- Slice the cake and serve at room temperature, optionally with ice cream or whipped cream.
