Pistachio Pineapple Cake

Pistachio Pineapple Cake Recipe

This Pistachio Pineapple Cake is a soft, moist cake that features the delightful combination of crushed pistachios and sweet pineapple. With its unique flavor profile and vibrant green color, it’s sure to be a showstopper at your next gathering!

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 box of yellow cake mix (or homemade vanilla cake mix)
• 1 small box (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice)
• ½ cup chopped pistachios (for added texture, optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons pineapple juice (from the reserved pineapple juice)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and the instant pistachio pudding mix. Stir to combine.
3. Add the vegetable oil, eggs, and crushed pineapple (with juice drained but reserve a bit of juice for the frosting).
4. Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring there are no lumps in the batter.
5. Gently fold in the chopped pistachios (if using) for added texture.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
8. Once done, remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until smooth.
3. Add the vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of the reserved pineapple juice, continuing to mix until the frosting is light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add another tablespoon of pineapple juice to reach the desired consistency.

Step 3: Frost the Cake

1. Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.
2. Garnish with additional chopped pistachios or toasted coconut if desired for added decoration and flavor.

Step 4: Serve

1. Slice the cake into squares and enjoy the sweet, nutty flavors of this Pistachio Pineapple Cake. It’s perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual get-togethers!

Why This Pistachio Pineapple Cake is a Must-Try:

• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of pineapple and pistachio pudding creates a wonderfully moist texture, while the pistachios add a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pineapple.
• Easy to Make: Using a box cake mix makes this recipe quick and easy, but the addition of pistachio pudding and pineapple elevates it to something special.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, birthday party, or holiday celebration, this cake will stand out and impress your guests.

Pro Tips:

• Cake Variations: If you don’t have pistachio pudding mix, you can substitute with vanilla pudding and add a teaspoon of pistachio extract to achieve a similar flavor.
• For a Lighter Frosting: You can swap out some of the cream cheese for whipped cream cheese to make the frosting a little lighter.
• Add Extra Texture: For added texture, try folding in a handful of shredded coconut into the cake batter before baking.

Perfect Pairings:

• Pair with a cup of coffee or iced tea for a delicious afternoon treat.
• This cake also pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to make it an even more indulgent dessert.