Moist Pineapple Cake – The Old-Fashioned Slice That Tastes Like Sunshine
Some cakes don’t need frosting to be loved — they’re already rich, tender, and full of flavor all on their own. Moist pineapple cake is that kind of classic.
It’s the cake that shows up at potlucks, church gatherings, and family weekends because it’s easy, forgiving, and always disappears fast. The pineapple keeps it unbelievably soft, the crumb stays moist for days, and the sweet glaze (or cream cheese frosting) makes it feel like a treat without being heavy.
If you like simple cakes with big comfort energy, this one belongs in your recipe box.
Moist Pineapple Cake
Ingredients
Cake
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1½ cups sugar
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2 tsp baking soda
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½ tsp salt
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2 large eggs
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1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice (do not drain)
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½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Simple Pineapple Glaze (Optional but Classic)
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½ cup butter
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1 cup powdered sugar
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2 tbsp pineapple juice (from the can)
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½ tsp vanilla
(Or swap glaze for cream cheese frosting—see tips.)
Instructions
1) Preheat
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch pan (or line with parchment).
2) Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3) Add Wet Ingredients
Add eggs, crushed pineapple (with juice), oil, and vanilla.
Stir just until combined.
Fold in nuts if using.
4) Bake
Pour into pan and bake 30–35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
5) Glaze (Optional)
While cake is warm:
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Melt butter in a small saucepan.
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Whisk in powdered sugar, pineapple juice, and vanilla until smooth.
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Pour over warm cake so it soaks in.
6) Cool & Slice
Cool before slicing (though it’s amazing slightly warm).
Why This Cake Stays So Moist
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Crushed pineapple + juice adds natural moisture
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Oil keeps the crumb tender for days
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Baking soda helps lift despite the wet batter
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Warm glaze soaks in and locks in softness
Tips for the Best Moist Pineapple Cake
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Do not drain the pineapple (that juice is the magic)
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Don’t overmix — stir just until combined
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Add nuts for classic texture (optional)
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For a richer dessert: frost with cream cheese frosting
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For extra tropical flavor: add shredded coconut
Serving Suggestions
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Plain with coffee
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With whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
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Topped with toasted coconut
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Holiday-style with cream cheese frosting
FAQ – Moist Pineapple Cake
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes — it’s even better the next day because it stays moist.
How do I store pineapple cake?
Store covered at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze slices up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp.
Can I use pineapple chunks instead?
Crushed pineapple works best for moisture and texture. If using chunks, chop them small.
