Pineapple Juice Cake is a moist, tropical-inspired dessert that’s packed with flavor! This cake is bursting with the sweet, tangy goodness of pineapple juice, making it the perfect treat for summer gatherings, parties, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth. The addition of pineapple juice ensures the cake stays moist, and the tropical flavor shines through in every bite. Topped with a luscious glaze or frosting, this cake is a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
• 1 cup pineapple juice (from canned or fresh pineapple)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Glaze/Frosting (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons pineapple juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, pineapple juice, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and baking powder.
3. Mix well with an electric mixer or whisk until the batter is smooth and no lumps remain.
4. If you’re using crushed pineapple for extra flavor and texture, fold it into the batter at this point.
5. Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth it into an even layer.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

Step 2: Make the Glaze/Frosting (Optional)

1. While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze (if using). In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, pineapple juice, and vanilla extract.
2. Stir until smooth, adding more pineapple juice if needed to reach your desired consistency.
3. Set the glaze aside until the cake has finished baking and has cooled slightly.

Step 3: Cool and Glaze the Cake

1. Once the cake has baked, allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
2. After it has cooled slightly, pour the glaze over the top of the cake, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
3. Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.

Cooking Notes

• For a lighter cake: You can substitute the vegetable oil with applesauce to cut down on the fat content.
• For extra flavor: You can add 1 teaspoon coconut extract to enhance the tropical vibe.
• For a richer glaze: Add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the glaze for a thicker, tangier frosting.

Variations

1. Pineapple Coconut Cake

Add ½ cup shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist! You can also sprinkle some coconut on top of the glaze for added texture and flavor.

2. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Instead of baking the cake in a 9×13-inch pan, make a pineapple upside-down version by layering pineapple rings, maraschino cherries, and a brown sugar butter mixture at the bottom of the pan before adding the cake batter. After baking, flip the cake upside down to reveal a caramelized pineapple topping.

3. Tropical Pineapple Mango Cake

For a fruity mix, swap out half of the pineapple juice for mango juice or pureed mango. The result will be a tangy and vibrant cake that’s perfect for any summer celebration.

Keto & Low-Carb Version

Keto Pineapple Juice Cake

• Replace the yellow cake mix with a low-carb cake mix or make your own using almond flour and coconut flour.
• Use sugar substitutes like Stevia, Monk Fruit, or Erythritol instead of regular sugar.
• For the glaze, swap powdered sugar for a keto-friendly powdered sweetener and use sugar-free pineapple juice or pineapple extract for flavor.

Low-Carb Glaze

For the glaze, combine powdered Erythritol with a few tablespoons of sugar-free pineapple juice and a drop of vanilla extract to get the right consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use fresh pineapple juice?

Yes! Fresh pineapple juice works perfectly in this recipe and will give the cake an even fresher tropical flavor. If you’re using fresh pineapple, be sure to strain the juice before using it.

2. Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! This cake can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate it for longer freshness. Just add the glaze right before serving if you’re making it ahead of time.

3. Can I freeze Pineapple Juice Cake?

Yes, you can freeze this cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, leave the cake at room temperature for a few hours or overnight. Reheat the cake if desired, and then top with the glaze.

4. How can I make the glaze thicker?

To thicken the glaze, simply add more powdered sugar to your mixture until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more pineapple juice to loosen it up.

Pineapple Juice Cake is an easy-to-make and delightful dessert that brings a tropical burst of flavor to any occasion. With its moist texture, bright pineapple flavor, and a touch of sweetness from the glaze, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether served at a summer barbecue, holiday dinner, or as a sweet afternoon treat, this cake is an irresistible delight for everyone to enjoy