Hawaiian Pineapple Cake is a simple, sweet, and wonderfully moist dessert filled with crushed pineapple and chopped pecans. The pineapple adds natural juiciness to the cake, while the warm creamy glaze soaks into every slice for a rich, homemade finish.
This easy 9×13 cake is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, holidays, or anytime you want a bright tropical dessert without complicated steps.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 can crushed pineapple, 20 oz, with juice
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
For the Creamy Glaze
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Dry Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F / 175°C. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and crushed pineapple with its juice.
Stir until the batter is well combined. Fold in the chopped pecans.
3. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool slightly while you prepare the glaze.
4. Make the Creamy Pecan Glaze
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the evaporated milk, butter, and sugar.
Stir constantly for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture begins to thicken slightly.
Remove from the heat, then stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
5. Glaze and Serve
Pour the warm glaze evenly over the slightly cooled cake.
Let the cake rest so the glaze can soak in before slicing. For the best flavor, allow it to sit for about 30 minutes.
Serve warm, room temperature, or chilled.
Helpful Tips
For extra flavor and crunch, lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the cake batter and glaze.
Do not drain the crushed pineapple. The juice helps keep the cake moist and gives it a bright pineapple flavor.
Letting the glaze soak into the cake before serving makes each slice richer and more delicious.
Recipe Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Calories: about 320 per serving
Serving Ideas
Serve this cake with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, fresh pineapple pieces, or a sprinkle of extra toasted pecans.
It is a sweet, tropical-style dessert that tastes just as good chilled the next day.
