Here’s a comprehensive breakdown for your Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake:
Introduction
My husband called this cake “a slice of paradise”—and I couldn’t agree more! This Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake is the perfect blend of rich cream cheese, buttery goodness, and tropical pineapple. With a moist and dense texture, complemented by a hint of sweetness from the pineapple, it’s a cake that makes any occasion feel special. Whether served at a family gathering or as a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee, this cake will quickly become a favorite.
Origin
Pound cake has its origins in Europe, dating back to the early 1700s. Traditionally, the name “pound cake” came from the original recipe that required one pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. Over time, variations of this cake were made to suit regional tastes, and the addition of ingredients like cream cheese and fruit became popular in American baking. The addition of pineapple gives this pound cake a tropical flair, which was popularized in the U.S. during the 20th century, especially in Southern and tropical regions.
Cultural Significance
Pound cake has a long-standing place in American culture, particularly in Southern cuisine. Known for its dense, moist texture, the cake has been passed down through generations, often baked for special occasions, holidays, and gatherings. Adding cream cheese and pineapple to the traditional pound cake not only enhances its flavor and texture but also ties it to the trend of incorporating fruit into cakes that became popular in the mid-1900s.
Pineapple, in particular, is a symbol of hospitality and warmth in Southern culture, often used in both savory and sweet dishes. This combination of cream cheese, pineapple, and pound cake has become a beloved treat in many American homes.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1 ½ cups butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained (reserve the juice for added flavor or to use in frosting)
- ½ cup sour cream (optional for extra moisture)
Optional Additions
- Chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
- Shredded coconut to enhance the tropical flavor
- Whipped cream or vanilla frosting for topping
- Cinnamon or nutmeg for a hint of warmth in the flavor
- Lemon zest or juice for a zesty kick
- Pineapple glaze made from powdered sugar, pineapple juice, and a little butter
Tips for Success
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure the butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth batter and better incorporation of the ingredients.
- Don’t overmix: When adding flour, mix until just combined to prevent the cake from becoming dense or tough.
- Properly drain the pineapple: Make sure the pineapple is well-drained to avoid making the batter too wet. You can use the reserved juice to drizzle on top after baking or mix it into a glaze.
- Use an accurate oven temperature: Pound cakes tend to take longer to bake due to their dense nature. Make sure to bake at 325°F (165°C) and use a toothpick to check for doneness.
- Allow the cake to cool fully: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps it maintain its structure and flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan or a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream (if using), mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the drained pineapple gently. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 60–75 minutes (depending on your pan size) or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve as is or with a dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, or your favorite glaze.
Description
This Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a dreamy combination of tangy cream cheese, rich butter, and sweet pineapple that makes each bite heavenly. The cake has a moist, dense texture, while the pineapple adds a touch of freshness and natural sweetness that balances out the richness of the cream cheese. The cream cheese also contributes to a velvety crumb that melts in your mouth, making it an unforgettable treat for any occasion.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 12 slices)
- Calories: 450-500 kcal
- Fat: 24-28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14-16 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Carbohydrates: 60-65 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 45 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Vitamin A: 15% of daily value
- Calcium: 2% of daily value
- Iron: 5% of daily value
Conclusion
This Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a true indulgence that pairs the rich, buttery flavor of pound cake with the tropical sweetness of pineapple. It’s perfect for special occasions or any time you want to add a little sunshine to your day. Whether you’re serving it at a family reunion, a holiday gathering, or enjoying it as an afternoon snack, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!
Recommendation
If you’re craving a cake that offers both comfort and a burst of tropical flavor, this Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake is the way to go. The combination of pineapple and cream cheese adds a level of sophistication to the classic pound cake, making it a standout dessert for any celebration. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a glass of iced tea, and you’ve got the perfect treat!
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this cake is undeniably indulgent, it’s made with real, wholesome ingredients like butter, cream cheese, and fresh pineapple, making it a treat you can feel good about enjoying. For those looking to lighten things up, consider swapping some of the butter for a healthier alternative like coconut oil or using a reduced-fat cream cheese. It’s all about balance—indulge in a slice of paradise while still keeping an eye on your healthful choices!