Pineapple Gooey Butter Cake blends rich tradition and tropical sweetness into one irresistible dessert. A soft, buttery cake forms the base, while a creamy pineapple layer melts into every bite, creating a texture both dense and tender.
The flavor is bold yet balanced, sweet yet tangy, offering a unique twist on a classic. The idea sparked while watching weekend baking videos, imagining sunshine captured in a dessert. One quiet afternoon, the vision turned into reality, guided by flavor and instinct.
This guide comes from that moment of inspiration, where creativity met craving, and the result was unforgettable, homemade, and joyfully shared. Now I will explain to make Pineapple Gooey Butter Cake.
Why We Love This Recipe
We love this Pineapple Gooey Butter Cake because it brings together rich, buttery sweetness and the bright, tropical taste of pineapple in every bite.
The soft, gooey texture creates a comforting dessert that feels both indulgent and satisfying. It’s easy to prepare, yet delivers bakery-style results straight from the oven.
Whether for a gathering or a quiet treat at home, this cake makes people smile. The balance of flavor and texture keeps everyone coming back for more.
How To Prepare Pineapple Gooey Butter Cake
Recipe Overviews
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Course: Dessert
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving (varies with portion size)
Yield: 12 servings
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Mixing bowls (2)
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Oven mitts
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Cake Base:
- ½ cup (113 g) salted butter, melted
- 1 box (15.25 oz / 430 g) yellow cake mix
- 1 large egg
For the Creamy Pineapple Filling:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (20 oz / 565 g) crushed pineapple, well drained
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 lb (16 oz / 450 g) powdered sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, yellow cake mix, and egg. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
Step 2: Spread the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing it gently to create an even layer.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy. Add the well-drained crushed pineapple and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the filling is smooth and thick.
Step 4: Carefully spread the cream cheese and pineapple filling evenly over the cake base layer in the baking dish.
Step 5: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges start to turn golden.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely on a cooling rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.
Nutrition Benefits
Pineapple Gooey Butter Cake provides some nutritional benefits mainly from the pineapple, which adds vitamins like vitamin C and antioxidants.
The fruit also contributes dietary fiber, aiding digestion. However, the cake is rich in butter, sugar, and cream cheese, making it higher in calories and fats.
Enjoying it in moderation can satisfy sweet cravings while offering a small boost of nutrients from the pineapple. Balancing this dessert with a healthy diet helps maintain overall wellness.
Tips For Best Results
1. Remove as much liquid as possible from the pineapple to keep the topping from becoming too runny.
2. Let cream cheese and eggs sit out until softened, ensuring a smooth and even mixture.
3. Distribute the cake batter evenly and gently press it to form a consistent base.
4. Combine the topping ingredients just enough to blend without overworking the batter.
5. Keep an eye during the last few minutes of baking to avoid drying out the gooey center.
6. Allow the cake to cool fully so it firms up, making cutting easier and cleaner.
7. Warming your knife slightly can help slice the cake without sticking or crumbling.
How Can I serve Pineapple Gooey Butter Cake
Pineapple Gooey Butter Cake can be served warm or cooled, depending on your preference. Slice it into neat pieces and arrange them on a serving platter.
A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a simple sweetness. Pairing the cake with a small scoop of coconut or mango ice cream brings out the tropical flavors even more.
Fresh pineapple chunks or a drizzle of caramel sauce make great additions to elevate the presentation and taste. This cake is great for enjoying with loved ones anytime.
Variations And Substitutions
Variations
- Add shredded coconut to the pineapple topping for extra texture and flavor.
- Mix crushed pecans or walnuts into the cake batter for a nutty crunch.
- Use fresh pineapple chunks instead of canned for a fresher taste.
- Stir in a teaspoon of rum or coconut extract to the filling for a tropical twist.
- Top the cake with a cream cheese frosting instead of the traditional gooey layer.
Substitutions
- Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in the filling for tanginess and creaminess.
- Swap butter for margarine or coconut oil to change the fat source.
- Substitute white sugar with brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor.
- Use almond milk or any plant-based milk in the batter instead of regular milk.
Storage Recommendations
Store Pineapple Gooey Butter Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and moist. It can last up to 4-5 days when properly covered.
Before serving, allow the cake to come to room temperature or warm it slightly for a softer texture. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Personal Touch or Story
I first made Pineapple Gooey Butter Cake for a family gathering, hoping to surprise everyone with something new.
As soon as I pulled it from the oven, the sweet pineapple scent filled the kitchen, instantly bringing back memories of summer vacations. When I served it, everyone loved the gooey texture and tropical flavor it quickly became a favorite.
Since then, this Pineapple Gooey Butter Cake reminds me of those joyful moments and the simple happiness that comes from sharing homemade treats with loved ones. That’s why I keep coming back to this recipe again and again.
Conclusion
My Pineapple Gooey Butter Cake turned out to be a sweet success, and the Pineapple Gooey Butter Cake came out just as I imagined rich, creamy, and full of pineapple flavor.
I feel proud of the result and excited to share it. This Pineapple Gooey Butter Cake brings joy in every bite, and I truly hope you will try making it soon.
Once you do, you’ll see how rewarding and simple it can be to create something so delicious at home.
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Banana Cake With Brown Butter Frosting – Delicious Dessert
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Butter Pecan Pound Cake with Chopped Pecans – A Slice of Heaven
Pineapple Gooey Butter Cake
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (2)
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Oven mitts
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Cake Base:
- ½ cup 113 g salted butter, melted
- 1 box 15.25 oz / 430 g yellow cake mix
- 1 large egg
For the Creamy Pineapple Filling:
- 8 oz 225 g cream cheese, softened
- 1 can 20 oz / 565 g crushed pineapple, well drained
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 lb 16 oz / 450 g powdered sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, yellow cake mix, and egg. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
- Step 2: Spread the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing it gently to create an even layer.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy. Add the well-drained crushed pineapple and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the filling is smooth and thick.
- Step 4: Carefully spread the cream cheese and pineapple filling evenly over the cake base layer in the baking dish.
- Step 5: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges start to turn golden.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely on a cooling rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.