Pineapple Layer Cake with Glaze – Moist Tropical Dessert
🌸 Introduction
Pineapple is one of the most beloved tropical fruits, bursting with juicy sweetness and vibrant flavor. When baked into a cake, it brings a refreshing lightness, natural moisture, and a hint of tangy sweetness that makes every bite irresistible. A Pineapple Layer Cake with Glaze is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of tropical indulgence. With its tender crumb, creamy layers, and shiny glaze on top, this cake makes the perfect centerpiece for summer gatherings, birthdays, or festive occasions.
🧾 Ingredients
For the Cake Batter
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained, reserve juice for glaze)
For the Pineapple Filling & Layers
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (with juice)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
For the Glaze
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons pineapple juice (reserved from can)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnish
- Pineapple slices or tidbits
- Shredded coconut
- Maraschino cherries
🥣 Instructions & Methods
Step 1 – Make the Cake Layers
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
- Mix in sour cream until well blended.
- Gradually fold in the dry mixture.
- Stir in drained crushed pineapple until evenly distributed.
- Divide batter between pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely before layering.
Step 2 – Prepare the Pineapple Filling
- In a saucepan, combine pineapple, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat until thickened, stirring constantly.
- Let it cool before spreading between cake layers.
Step 3 – Make the Glaze
- In a bowl, whisk powdered sugar, pineapple juice, and vanilla until smooth.
- Adjust thickness with more sugar or juice as needed.
Step 4 – Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
- Spread pineapple filling evenly on top.
- Add the second cake layer.
- Pour glaze generously over the cake, letting it drip down the sides.
- Garnish with pineapple slices, coconut, or cherries if desired.
📜 History of Pineapple Cake
Pineapple has been cherished for centuries as a symbol of hospitality and abundance. Pineapple cakes first gained popularity in the American South during the mid-20th century, when canned pineapple became widely available. While pineapple upside-down cake was iconic, bakers soon began experimenting with pineapple in layered cakes. These cakes quickly became favorites for family gatherings, birthdays, and potlucks. Today, pineapple cakes are enjoyed globally, often paired with coconut for a tropical flair.
🌱 Benefits of Pineapple Layer Cake
- Rich in Vitamin C – Pineapple supports immunity and digestion.
- Moist Texture – Natural pineapple juice keeps the cake tender.
- Refreshing Flavor – Balances sweetness with a slight tang.
- Festive Appeal – Bright, tropical, and eye-catching.
- Comfort Dessert – Perfect blend of nostalgia and indulgence.
🏗 Formation of the Cake
- Base Structure – A soft, fluffy sponge infused with pineapple.
- Middle Layer – Sweet and tangy pineapple filling thickened with cornstarch.
- Top Finish – A glossy pineapple glaze that seals in moisture and adds elegance.
- Optional Garnishes – Tropical toppings like coconut or cherries elevate the presentation.
❤️ Lovers of This Dessert
- Tropical Flavor Enthusiasts – People who love fruit-based cakes.
- Families – Perfect for birthdays and holiday gatherings.
- Summer Party Hosts – A refreshing alternative to heavy chocolate cakes.
- Retro Dessert Fans – Reminiscent of classic 1950s pineapple cakes.
- Sweet Tooths – The glaze provides just the right sugary finish.
🏁 Conclusion
The Pineapple Layer Cake with Glaze is a moist, flavorful, and refreshing dessert that brings tropical sunshine to your table. It has a rich history, numerous health benefits, and universal appeal. Loved by families, kids, and party-goers alike, this cake is not just a treat—it’s a memory in the making. The layers of soft cake, tangy pineapple filling, and sweet glaze form the perfect trio, making this dessert both timeless and modern.