Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan or a 10-inch tube pan, or spray it with nonstick baking spray.
2. Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes on medium speed.
3. Add Sugar: Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract until everything is smooth and combined.

Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients and Pineapple

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, beating on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
3. Fold in Pineapple: Gently fold in the crushed pineapple and pineapple juice (if using) until evenly distributed in the batter.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared bundt or tube pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and slightly pulling away from the edges of the pan.
3. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Pineapple Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, pineapple juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar (for a thicker glaze) or more pineapple juice (for a thinner glaze).

Step 5: Glaze and Serve

1. Drizzle the Glaze: Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the pineapple glaze over the top, allowing it to flow down the sides.
2. Garnish (Optional): Top with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or fresh pineapple chunks for added flair.
3. Slice and Enjoy: Cut into slices and enjoy the tropical, creamy flavors of this delightful pound cake!

Tips for the Best Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake

• Drain the Pineapple Well: This keeps the cake from being too moist or soggy. Press it lightly with a paper towel if needed.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter and even texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes to prevent it from drying out. A toothpick should come out with just a few crumbs.

This Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a tropical twist on a classic recipe. The creamy texture, sweet pineapple flavor, and light glaze make it a perfect dessert for any time of year!