Ingredients:

Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional, for sprinkling)

Steps: How to Make Pineapple Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure they are well-mixed.
3. Add the entire can of crushed pineapple (juice included), beaten eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until everything is just combined. The batter will be slightly thick and lumpy.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a medium mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Frost the Cake

1. Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.
2. If desired, sprinkle shredded coconut over the frosting for an added tropical touch.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Sugar: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 250mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes, fresh pineapple can be used. Just finely crush it and include the juice, ensuring the total weight is approximately 20 oz.

Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.

Q: Can I use a different frosting?
A: While cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with the pineapple flavor, you can opt for a simple whipped cream topping or even a light glaze made with powdered sugar and pineapple juice.

Q: How do I make the cake less sweet?
A: Reduce the granulated sugar in the cake to 1 cup and adjust the frosting’s powdered sugar to 2 cups for a less sweet version.

Tips for Making the Best Pineapple Sheet Cake:

1. Do Not Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until the batter is combined. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, ensure your baking soda and vanilla extract are fresh and of good quality.
3. Let the Cake Cool Completely: Frosting a warm cake will cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Be patient and let the cake cool entirely before adding the frosting.
4. Customize the Frosting: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a tablespoon of pineapple juice to the frosting for extra zing.
5. Make It Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day in advance for the best results.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerator: Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cream cheese frosting needs to stay chilled.
2. Freezer: You can freeze the cake (before or after frosting). Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. If freezing with frosting, allow the frosting to harden slightly before wrapping. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion:

Pineapple Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a tropical delight that combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with the creamy richness of a tangy frosting. Its simple preparation makes it ideal for bakers of all skill levels, while its crowd-pleasing flavors make it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, birthday party, or casual family dinner, this cake is sure to impress. Add a sprinkle of coconut for an extra tropical vibe, and don’t forget to enjoy every moist, flavorful bite! 🌴🍰