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The Easiest Original Pineapple Cake Recipe

The Easiest Original Pineapple Cake Recipe

A simple one-bowl pineapple cake baked in a 9-by-13-inch pan and covered with a warm butter and evaporated milk frosting. Serve it plain, with coconut or nuts, or slightly warm for a softer pudding-like texture.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cake
  • 2 cups All-purpose flour
  • 2 cups Granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons Baking soda
  • 2 Large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
  • 1 20-ounce can Crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
  • 1 cup Chopped pecans or walnuts, optional
Frosting
  • 1/2 cup Butter
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup Evaporated milk
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
  • 1/2-1 cup Shredded coconut or chopped nuts, optional

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-by-13-inch baking pan. A metal pan may finish the cake a little sooner, while a glass pan may require slightly more time.
  2. Whisk the flour, sugar, and baking soda together in a large bowl. Add the eggs, vanilla, and the entire can of crushed pineapple with all of its juice.
  3. Stir only until the batter is evenly combined, then fold in the optional chopped pecans or walnuts. Spread the batter in the prepared pan.
  4. Bake for approximately 30 to 40 minutes, until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. Begin checking toward the shorter end of the baking range, especially when using a metal pan.
  5. While the cake bakes, combine the butter, sugar, and evaporated milk in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
  6. Remove the frosting from the heat and stir in the vanilla plus the optional coconut or chopped nuts. Pour it over the warm cake, spread it evenly, and cool the cake before slicing.

Notes

Do not drain the pineapple because its juice provides essential moisture. Avoid overmixing, and let the frosted cake cool completely for cleaner slices; serve it slightly warm for a softer, more pudding-like texture. Plain cake or whipped cream are also delicious options.