Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and vanilla extract together. Pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture and mix until well combined.
Stir in the crushed pineapple and buttermilk until the batter is smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
While the cake is cooling, prepare the pineapple frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
Add the powdered sugar, crushed pineapple, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and creamy.
Once the cake has cooled completely, frost the top and sides with the pineapple frosting.
For an optional garnish, sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the cake.
Expert Tips for Success
Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well before adding it to the batter to avoid excess moisture that can make the cake dense.
For a stronger coconut flavor, add a teaspoon of coconut extract to the cake batter.
Use room temperature butter when preparing the frosting for easy mixing.
If frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk. If too thin, add more powdered sugar.
Variations and Substitutions
Add a layer of sliced bananas between cake layers for a tropical twist.
Incorporate chopped macadamia nuts into the batter for added crunch.
For a dairy-free version, replace butter with coconut oil and buttermilk with almond milk.
For gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
Serving Suggestions
This delicious pineapple cake is a crowd-pleaser on its own, but pairs wonderfully with:
Coconut or pineapple sorbet for a refreshing twist
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a creamy element
Freshly brewed tropical fruit tea or a chilled glass of pineapple juice
The combination of flavors will transport you to a tropical paradise.
