Pineapple Sheet Cake Recipe

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Moist, sweet, and simple enough for any baking skill level, Pineapple Sheet Cake brings pure comfort to the dessert table. Each slice delivers a burst of tropical flavor balanced by a creamy layer of frosting. You don’t need fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients—just a can of crushed pineapple and some pantry basics.

This recipe goes beyond basic cake. Crushed pineapple gives unmistakable fruitiness and keeps the crumb tender day after day. Toasted pecans add crunch, while optional coconut nudges everything in a tropical direction. If you’re serving a crowd or want a treat that travels well, there’s nothing more reliable than this easy sheet cake.

Why Pineapple Sheet Cake Stands Out

Pineapple sheet cake preserves moisture and flavor thanks to the juicy fruit. Here’s why it might become your next go-to dessert:

• Unmatched Moisture
  The pineapple juice is baked right in—no butter or oil required. This keeps the cake soft, even after a few days.

• Texture in Every Bite
  The contrast between tender crumb, chewy coconut (if using), creamy frosting, and crunchy nuts is irresistible.

• Stress-Free Make-Ahead
  The cake can rest in the fridge, covered, for up to five days. The flavors only improve with time.

• Perfect for Gatherings
  Cut into tidy squares, this cake serves a crowd and transports easily.

• Adaptable Toppings
  Toasted pecans, flaked coconut, extra pineapple, or even maraschino cherries—customize each tray for any occasion.

Essential Ingredients for Pineapple Sheet Cake

To create this cake, you’ll need simple ingredients. Here’s what brings it all together:

• Crushed Pineapple (in juice)
  Use a 20-ounce can. Don’t drain; the juice is part of the recipe.

• All-Purpose Flour
  Provides structure.

• Granulated Sugar
  Sweetens and ensures a soft, pleasant crumb.

• Eggs
  Bind and help the cake rise.

• Baking Soda
  Leavens and lightens the batter. Baking soda also neutralizes some of the pineapple acidity.

• Salt
  Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.

• Pure Vanilla Extract
  Adds depth and a hint of warmth.

• Cream Cheese Frosting
  A mix of cream cheese, soft butter, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla. This frosting pairs beautifully with pineapple.

• Chopped Pecans (optional)
  Toast for extra flavor and sprinkle on top before serving.

• Shredded Coconut (optional)
  For extra chew and tropical flair, stir into the batter or sprinkle atop the frosting.

Pineapple Sheet Cake Ingredient Table

Step-By-Step: Making Pineapple Sheet Cake

This cake is refreshingly straightforward. Here’s how to bring it together, step by step:

1. Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch sheet cake pan or baking dish. Grease it well or line with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix eggs, vanilla, and the entire can of crushed pineapple (juice included).

4. Blend Batter

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Over-mixing will make the cake dense.

If using coconut, add it now.

5. Bake

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan. Bake for 28-33 minutes, or until the cake springs back in the center when lightly pressed and a toothpick comes out clean.

6. Cool

Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This prevents soggy edges and helps the frosting set later.

7. Make Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Slowly add powdered sugar and vanilla. Beat until light and fluffy.

8. Frost and Decorate

Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Top with toasted pecans, extra coconut, or a few reserved pineapple tidbits.

9. Slice and Serve

Cut into squares. For extra flair, serve with fresh whipped cream or a cherry on top.

Chef’s Tips for Pineapple Sheet Cake

Little changes can yield huge improvements. Here are some tested tips:

• Don’t Drain Pineapple
  The pineapple’s juice is key for both flavor and texture.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients
  Room-temperature eggs and cream cheese mix more evenly, preventing lumps or curdling.

• Toast Your Nuts
  Spread pecans on a tray and bake at 350°F for about 8 minutes. The flavor becomes deeper and nuttier.

• Cool Before Frosting
  A warm cake will cause the frosting to slide. Waiting pays off.

• Try Add-Ins
  Add diced mango, a little rum, or sub almond extract for vanilla for a flavor twist.

• Make It Ahead
  This cake gets even better on day two. Store, covered, in the fridge to let the flavors meld.

Storing and Freezing Pineapple Sheet Cake

Sheet cake is a champion for feeding a crowd and stays fresh longer than layer cakes. Here’s how to handle leftovers:

Storing

• Cover with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
  Refrigerate for up to five days.

• Frosting stays stable for days in the fridge.
  (If you like a firmer frosting, chill for an hour before serving.)

Freezing

• Freeze unfrosted or frosted cake.
  To freeze the whole cake, wrap in plastic, then aluminum foil. To freeze slices, wrap individually.

• Thaw overnight in the fridge
  Then let the cake come to room temperature before serving to revive its soft crumb.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes. Use your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Results are nearly identical.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for cupcakes?
A: It works well as cupcakes. Adjust baking time to 18-22 minutes and fill liners 3/4 full.

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple?
A: Fresh pineapple, finely crushed, works well. If it’s very juicy, reduce added juice by a couple tablespoons.

Q: Can I skip the nuts?
A: Definitely. Leave off nuts or swap for something else crunchy, like pepitas or toasted coconut.

Pineapple Sheet Cake: Variations to Try

For a creative spin, consider:

• Swapping vanilla for coconut or almond extract
• Mixing in dried cherries, diced mango, or chopped bananas
• Spiking with a splash of dark rum
• Using lime zest in the frosting for citrus notes
• Topping with a pineapple glaze instead of frosting

Celebrate With Pineapple Sheet Cake

This cake is all about ease and flexibility. You get the juicy punch of pineapple, the creaminess of frosting, and the option to tailor it to your liking. Whether you’re baking for a potluck, birthday, or just a simple weeknight treat, Pineapple Sheet Cake shines with flavor and charm.

So grab a can of pineapple and let your oven do the work. You’ll have a moist, flavorful cake that only gets better with each passing day.