Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
Optional Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice or milk
Equipment Needed
- 10-inch bundt pan or 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium bowl for dry ingredients
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Grease and flour your bundt or loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking. You may also use a non-stick baking spray with flour.
Step 2: Cream Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat. Mix for 3–4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures the cake is well-emulsified and fluffy.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-cream cheese mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cake dense.
Step 5: Add Flavorings and Pineapple
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple using a spatula, ensuring even distribution without deflating the batter.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 70–85 minutes for a bundt pan (or 60–70 minutes for a loaf pan).
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter.
Step 7: Cool the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes.
Carefully invert onto a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Optional Glaze
If desired, mix the powdered sugar and pineapple juice (or milk) in a small bowl to make a thin glaze.
Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving for added sweetness and shine.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve plain or with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Pair with fresh pineapple slices or a tropical fruit salad.
- Slice thinly for tea or coffee gatherings.
