Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe

If you’re searching for a truly decadent dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, this Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a stunningly moist, rich cake perfectly balanced with the tangy sweetness of pineapple and that luscious cream cheese swirl throughout. Every bite melts in your mouth with just the right touch of tropical brightness, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion from casual family dinners to special celebrations. Trust me, once you try this pound cake, it’ll easily become your new favorite go-to treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role — from creating a tender crumb to adding that dreamy pineapple flavor and creamy texture that keeps you coming back for more.

• Unsalted butter (3 sticks, softened): Provides richness and a tender crumb while allowing control over saltiness.
• Lite brown sugar (1 1/2 cups): Adds depth with a subtle molasses note and keeps the cake moist.
• Cream cheese (1 8-ounce package, softened): Offers creaminess and slight tang that’s key to this pound cake’s signature flavor.
• Regular sugar (1 cup): Balances sweetness with lightness.
• Eggs (5): Bind the batter and lend structure and richness.
• Pure vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Enhances overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
• Buttermilk (1 cup): Adds moisture and a pleasant slight acidity to complement the cream cheese.
• Sour cream (1/2 cup): Contributes to moist texture and subtle tanginess.
• Crushed pineapple (1 cup, drained): Infuses tropical sweetness and natural juiciness without making the batter watery.
• Swans Down Cake Flour or all-purpose flour (3 cups): Cake flour yields a finer, softer crumb but all-purpose works well too.
• Baking powder (1 tablespoon): Ensures the cake rises beautifully.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Powdered sugar (2 cups) for icing: Delivers smooth, sweet glaze.
• Melted butter (2 tablespoons) for icing: Adds richness and silky texture.
• Crushed pineapple (2 tablespoons) for icing: Continues the pineapple punch on top.
• Pineapple juice (to taste): Thins the icing to perfect drizzling consistency and amplifies fresh flavor.

How to Make Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C)—a moderate temperature perfect for even baking. Grease and flour a bundt pan or a classic 9×13-inch cake pan to make sure your pound cake releases easily after baking without losing any of its delicate crumb.

Step 2: Cream the Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, cream cheese, and regular sugar until the mixture is silky and smooth. Then, add the lite brown sugar and continue beating until everything blends perfectly, creating a rich base filled with flavor and moisture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Incorporate the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully mixed in before adding the next. This keeps the batter smooth and prevents curdling. Then stir in the vanilla extract, which adds a lovely warm aroma and depth to the cake.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures the leavening agents and salt are evenly distributed, which is essential for a consistent rise and balanced flavor throughout your pound cake.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry and Wet Ingredients

Slowly blend the dry ingredient mixture into the wet batter, alternating with buttermilk and sour cream — starting and ending with the dry ingredients. This technique prevents overmixing and results in a tender, moist crumb that melts in your mouth.

Step 6: Fold in the Crushed Pineapple

Gently fold the well-drained crushed pineapple into the batter. This adds bursts of juicy sweetness without making the batter too wet or heavy. Be gentle here to keep the pineapple pieces intact for texture and flavor pops throughout.

Step 7: Bake the Pound Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula for even baking. Bake at 325°F for about one hour, but start testing for doneness with a toothpick after 55 minutes—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs for perfect texture.

Step 8: Prepare the Icing

While the cake bakes, mix the powdered sugar, melted butter, crushed pineapple, and a splash of pineapple juice in a small bowl. Stir until you achieve a smooth, pourable icing that will enhance the flavor and add a glossy, irresistible finish to the pound cake.

Step 9: Cool and Ice the Cake

Once the cake is out of the oven, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before drizzling the pineapple icing generously over the top. This final step seals in moisture and adds a beautifully sweet tangy glaze.

How to Serve Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe

Garnishes

For a simple yet stunning presentation, fresh pineapple chunks or thin pineapple slices make wonderful natural garnishes. Toasted coconut flakes sprinkled on top can add a delightful crunch and tropical flair that pairs perfectly with the cake’s flavors.

Side Dishes

This pound cake shines wonderfully alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. For a brunch vibe, serve it with fresh fruit salad or a citrusy compote to contrast the cake’s richness with bright, refreshing notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the pound cake and serve in petite layers with alternating pineapple preserves for a quick mini trifle. Or, use it as a base for layered desserts topped with passion fruit curd or mango salsa for an exotic twist that surprises and delights your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After you enjoy your share, keep the remaining cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps preserve its moist texture and fresh pineapple flavor.

Freezing

Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to two months without losing its wonderful taste or texture.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, thaw frozen slices overnight in the refrigerator, then warm them gently in a microwave or oven at low heat. A quick 10-15 second zap in the microwave enhances the cream cheese softness and reawakens the tropical pineapple aroma.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple or fresh pineapple for this recipe?

Canned crushed pineapple is perfect as long as it’s well drained to avoid making the batter soggy. Fresh pineapple can be used, but make sure to finely crush it and drain excess juice for the best texture.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s meant for baking. Keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will remain deliciously intact.

How do I know when the pound cake is fully baked?

Use a toothpick or thin skewer inserted into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is done. Baking times may vary, so starting to check around 55 minutes is a good idea.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Though dairy is essential for the traditional texture and flavor, you can experiment with non-dairy substitutes like vegan butter, coconut yogurt instead of sour cream, and plant-based cream cheese. Results may differ, but it can be a tasty alternative.

What is the best way to store leftover icing?

Store any leftover pineapple icing in a small airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Give it a quick stir before drizzling to bring back its smooth consistency.

Final Thoughts

Making this Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe is like inviting a little sunshine and comfort into your kitchen. The balance of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors wraps around you with every bite. It’s a perfect dessert to share with loved ones or savor by yourself with a cup of tea. Give it a try soon—you’ll be amazed at how this simple collection of ingredients turns into a slice of pure bliss.

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