Description
Pineapple Sunshine Cake is a delightful and moist yellow cake infused with crushed pineapple, topped with a sweet pineapple glaze that soaks into tender cake holes, creating a burst of tropical flavor in every bite. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a bright, fruity treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or homemade cake batter)
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (juice reserved)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon pineapple juice (reserved from crushed pineapple)
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick and bakes evenly.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and the drained crushed pineapple (reserve the juice for later). Mix everything together until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake the Cake: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked. After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the cake cools, mix the powdered sugar, reserved pineapple juice, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Stir until the glaze is smooth and free of lumps.
- Create Poke Holes: Once the cake has cooled slightly but is still warm, use a fork or skewer to poke holes evenly all over the top of the cake. This allows the glaze to seep in for extra moisture and flavor.
- Pour the Glaze: Slowly pour the glaze over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes and covers the entire surface for that signature moist and tangy texture.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely so the glaze sets and the flavors meld. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream or fresh pineapple chunks before serving for added appeal and taste.
Notes
- You can substitute the yellow cake mix with a homemade cake batter if preferred.
- Ensure the pineapple is well drained to avoid excess moisture in the cake batter.
- For a tropical twist, add shredded coconut to the batter or as a topping.
- The glaze can be adjusted in thickness by adding more powdered sugar or pineapple juice as needed.
- Leftovers can be stored covered at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
