This Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake is incredibly moist, rich, and buttery with a hint of tangy cream cheese and sweet crushed pineapple in every bite. Finished with a luscious pineapple glaze, it’s the perfect dessert for holidays, birthdays, brunches, or any special occasion.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 1 hour 20–30 minutes
- Cooling Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: About 2 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 12–16
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1½ cups (340g) unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups (600g) granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs, room temperature
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pineapple extract (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 cup (225g) well-drained crushed pineapple
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional, for extra moisture)
For the Pineapple Glaze
- 1½ cups (180g) powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons pineapple juice (reserved from the crushed pineapple)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for a glossy finish)
Optional Garnishes
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Fresh pineapple wedges
- Maraschino cherries
- Mint leaves
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan or tube pan, making sure to coat all the crevices.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese on medium speed for 3–5 minutes, until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the sugar and continue beating for another 3–4 minutes until pale and creamy.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure an even batter.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture on low speed, mixing just until combined.
Step 5: Add the Flavorings
Mix in:
- Vanilla extract
- Pineapple extract (if using)
- Sour cream (if using)
Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple using a spatula. Avoid overmixing.
Step 6: Bake
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any large air bubbles.
- Bake for 80–90 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil during the last 20 minutes of baking.
Step 7: Cool
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes.
- Carefully invert it onto a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before glazing.
Step 8: Make the Pineapple Glaze
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, pineapple juice, vanilla extract, and melted butter (if using).
- Add more pineapple juice, a teaspoon at a time, until the glaze reaches a pourable consistency.
- Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices with:
- Fresh pineapple chunks
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- Toasted coconut
- Fresh berries
- A hot cup of coffee or tea
Storage
Room Temperature
Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator
Refrigerate for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Freezer
Wrap the unglazed cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and glaze before serving.