If you’re craving a cake that’s moist, rich, and bursting with flavor, look no further than Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake. This delightful dessert combines the creamy, tangy goodness of cream cheese with the sweet, tropical taste of pineapple, resulting in a cake that’s both comforting and exciting. The dense yet tender crumb, thanks to the perfect blend of butter, sugar, and eggs, is complemented by the subtle tang of cream cheese and the juicy sweetness of pineapple. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just as a treat for yourself, this cake is sure to impress. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of flavors, with the richness of the cream cheese and the freshness of the pineapple coming together beautifully. The result is a cake that’s both indulgent and refreshing—a true crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Moist Texture

The cream cheese and butter work together to create a wonderfully moist and tender cake that’s soft but not overly airy. It’s the perfect density for a pound cake!

2. Tropical Flavor

The pineapple adds a burst of sweet, juicy flavor that transforms this pound cake into something special, making it perfect for summer or tropical-themed gatherings.

3. Perfectly Balanced Sweetness

The sugar balances out the tang of the cream cheese and the tartness of the pineapple, creating a harmonious flavor profile that’s not overly sweet.

4. Classic Yet Unique

While pound cakes are a classic favorite, the addition of pineapple and cream cheese gives this version a fresh twist that makes it stand out without losing the essence of the traditional cake.

5. Easy to Make

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake is a breeze to bake, even for beginners. It’s a great recipe to have on hand when you want to make something special with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Cream cheese (adds moisture and a subtle tang)
Butter (for richness and texture)
Sugar (sweetens the cake and helps form the golden crust)
Eggs (binds the ingredients and adds tenderness)
All-purpose flour (provides structure)
Baking powder (adds lift for fluffiness)
Vanilla extract (enhances the flavor)
Pineapple (fresh or canned for juicy, tropical sweetness)

Variations

Add Coconut: For a truly tropical twist, mix in some shredded coconut along with the pineapple.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Lighter Version: Replace the butter with a lighter alternative, such as Greek yogurt, and use reduced-fat cream cheese to make the cake a little less rich without sacrificing flavor.
Extra Pineapple: Add more pineapple chunks for an extra burst of tropical goodness, but be sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or a bundt pan, depending on your preference.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. The mixture should be smooth and well-combined.

Step 3: Add the Sugar and Eggs

Add the sugar to the butter and cream cheese mixture, and continue beating until smooth. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This will help ensure a smooth batter.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the cake’s texture.

Step 5: Add the Pineapple and Vanilla

Stir in the pineapple (drained if using canned) and vanilla extract. Be gentle to keep the texture light and airy.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve once it’s fully cooled.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth, even batter.
Pineapple Moisture: If using canned pineapple, be sure to drain it thoroughly before adding it to the batter. Too much liquid can affect the texture of the cake.
Check for Doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking the cake after 60 minutes. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent overbaking.
Flavor Variations: Try adding a bit of lemon zest or a splash of rum extract for a subtle depth of flavor that complements the tropical pineapple.

How to Serve

Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake can be served on its own as a delicious treat or paired with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. It’s also lovely with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing dessert. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for an added touch of sweetness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it, where it will keep for up to 5 days. Be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

This pound cake freezes beautifully! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

If you’d like to warm up a slice, simply microwave it for a few seconds or pop it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes until it’s heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes! Fresh pineapple will work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to chop it into small pieces and drain off any excess juice.

2. Can I make this cake without cream cheese?

You can substitute the cream cheese with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a slightly different texture, but cream cheese gives the cake its signature tangy richness.

3. Can I add other fruit to this cake?

Absolutely! You can experiment by adding other fruits, such as mango, berries, or even banana, to complement the pineapple.

4. How do I make sure the cake doesn’t dry out?

Be careful not to overbake the cake. Test it with a toothpick to make sure it comes out clean without overbaking. The moist ingredients like cream cheese and butter help prevent dryness.

5. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to add the necessary binding agents (like xanthan gum) as indicated on the flour package.

6. Can I add coconut to this cake?

Yes! Shredded coconut would pair wonderfully with the pineapple and enhance the tropical flavor. Add about 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the batter.

7. How long will this cake last?

When stored in an airtight container, the cake will stay fresh for about 3 days at room temperature or up to 5 days in the fridge.

8. Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing, and it will keep for up to 3 months.

9. Can I add a glaze to the cake?

Yes, a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk is a great way to add a little extra sweetness and visual appeal to the cake.

10. What’s the best way to serve this cake?

This cake is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh fruit for a more indulgent dessert.

Conclusion

Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. With its rich, creamy texture and tropical burst of pineapple, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just looking to treat yourself, this cake is sure to impress with its balance of flavors and irresistible moisture. So go ahead, bake this tropical masterpiece and enjoy every sweet, tangy bite!