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Pineapple-Orange Sunshine Cake

Pineapple-Orange Sunshine Cake

Pineapple-Orange Sunshine Cake is a vibrant, tropical dessert that combines juicy pineapple and bright orange flavors in a moist, tender cake. Perfect for any occasion, this refreshing cake bursts with citrus brightness and natural sweetness, creating an unforgettable treat that brightens any day.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/2 cup fresh pineapple juice

Add-ins

  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained (reserve some juice)

Optional Topping

  • Powdered sugar for dusting or glaze

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking pan. Measure all ingredients carefully. Zest and juice the oranges, and drain the crushed pineapple well, reserving some juice for the batter.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution and a light cake crumb.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a mixer, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy to incorporate air into the batter, creating a tender texture.
  4. Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then add vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice, combining everything evenly for consistent flavor.
  5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Pineapple: Alternately add the sifted dry ingredients and pineapple juice to the butter mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Fold in the drained crushed pineapple last to maintain juicy chunks.
  6. Bake Until Golden: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  7. Cool, Glaze, and Serve: Allow the cake to cool briefly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. Optionally dust with powdered sugar or drizzle a citrus glaze before serving for extra brightness.

Notes

  • Use fresh pineapple juice and orange zest for the best flavor.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and tender.
  • Ensure your oven is properly calibrated to avoid overbaking or dryness.
  • Drain crushed pineapple thoroughly to prevent a soggy cake.
  • You can use different pans such as Bundt, loaf, or round cake pans to change the cake’s appearance.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pineapple cake, Orange cake, Tropical dessert, Citrus cake, Moist cake, Pineapple orange dessert