Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or a similar-sized tube pan to ensure easy release of the cake.
2. Mix the Cake Batter:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer.
   • Add the cream cheese and continue to beat until smooth and well combined.
   • Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
   • Mix in the vanilla extract.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk and sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
   • Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple.
3. Bake the Cake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.
   • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Icing:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the powdered sugar, melted butter, and crushed pineapple. Stir until smooth.
   • Add pineapple juice a little at a time until the icing reaches a pourable consistency. Be careful not to add too much liquid; the icing should be thick but spreadable.
5. Ice the Cake:
   • Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the icing over the top. Let it set for a few minutes to allow the icing to firm up.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Slice and serve the cake. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.

Tips for Success

• Soften Ingredients: Ensure that the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
• Drain Pineapple Well: Make sure the crushed pineapple is well-drained to avoid adding excess moisture to the batter.
• Oven Thermometer: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature, as ovens can vary.

Variations

• Fruit Variations: Substitute crushed pineapple with other fruits like mango or peach for a different tropical twist.
• Nut Add-ins: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture and flavor.
• Coconut Addition: Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for an additional layer of tropical flavor.

This Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a delicious blend of rich butteriness, tangy cream cheese, and tropical pineapple. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist texture and delightful flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the blend of sweet and tangy notes in every slice!