Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple Topping
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Make the Pineapple Caramel: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and melted butter until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add Pineapple and Cherries: Arrange the pineapple rings on top of the caramel layer, placing a maraschino cherry in the center of each ring for an extra pop of color (optional).
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, crushed pineapple (with juice), melted butter, and eggs. If you prefer a moister cake, add 1/2 cup of sour cream. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and well-combined.
- Pour Over Pineapple Topping: Gently pour the cake batter over the pineapple rings and smooth it out with a spatula.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. If using a round cake pan, invert the cake onto a serving plate while still warm to let the caramelized pineapple topping drip down the sides.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
- Make the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed. Add the vanilla extract and pineapple juice and continue beating until fluffy and light.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the frosting generously over the top, or dollop it on the side as a topping to balance the sweet caramelized pineapple.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve: Slice the cake and serve it with a drizzle of pineapple caramel sauce from the bottom of the pan. Garnish with extra cherries or whipped cream for a decadent presentation.
Tips for Making the Best Pineapple Heaven Cake
- Extra Pineapple Flavor: For a more intense pineapple flavor, add 1 teaspoon of pineapple extract to the cake batter or frosting.
- Add Coconut: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the frosting for a tropical twist.
- Texture Variation: Add crushed nuts, like toasted pecans or almonds, for extra crunch.
Conclusion
This Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is the epitome of tropical indulgence. The moist, pineapple-infused cake, caramelized pineapple topping, and rich cream cheese frosting create a perfect balance of flavors. Serve this cake at your next celebration or whenever you need a little slice of sunshine in your day! It’s the perfect summer treat that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!