Introduction:
Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a luscious dessert that combines the rich, dense texture of a traditional pound cake with the tropical sweetness of pineapple and the creamy tanginess of cream cheese. This cake is perfect for special occasions or a delightful treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 1/2 cups (500g) granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (240ml) crushed pineapple, drained
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons pineapple juice (reserved from the crushed pineapple)
Optional Addition:
- 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Grease and flour a 10-inch (25cm) bundt pan or tube pan.
2. Make the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
4. Add Pineapple:
- Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple (and chopped nuts, if using) until evenly distributed in the batter.
5. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 70-80 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Make the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and pineapple juice until smooth and desired consistency is reached.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.
Tips for Success:
- Ensure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth batter.
- Drain the crushed pineapple well to prevent excess moisture in the cake.
- Use a toothpick or skewer to check the cake’s doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Nutritional Estimate:
(Per Serving, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 35g
- Protein: 6g
Recommendation:
This Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake is best served slightly warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy this cake as a delightful finish to a meal or a special treat with afternoon tea.