Pineapple Strawberry Pound Cake

A homemade pound cake always feels like a comforting treat, but adding fresh fruit takes it to a whole new level. This Pineapple Strawberry Pound Cake is the perfect mix of rich, buttery goodness and bright, refreshing flavors. The juicy pineapple keeps every bite moist, while the strawberries add just the right amount of natural sweetness.

This cake has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. It’s one of those recipes that’s simple to make but feels special every time. Whether it’s a casual afternoon snack or a dessert for guests, it never fails to impress. And with that light pineapple glaze drizzled on top, it’s just the right amount of indulgence.

Short Description

This Pineapple Strawberry Pound Cake is rich, buttery, and packed with fresh fruit flavor. With a soft, moist crumb and a bright pineapple glaze, it’s the perfect balance of indulgence and freshness.

Key Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup unsalted butter , softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup crushed pineapple , drained (reserve juice for glaze)
• 1 cup diced fresh strawberries (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp reserved pineapple juice (or milk, if needed)
• Optional : Fresh strawberry slices for garnish

Tools Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack for cooling

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix, as this keeps the cake tender.

Step 4: Fold in the Fruit

Gently fold in the drained pineapple and diced strawberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with foil for the last 10 minutes.

Step 6: Cool the Cake

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.

Step 7: Make the Glaze

Whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of reserved pineapple juice until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a bit more juice. Drizzle over the cooled cake.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh strawberry slices for extra color and flavor. Slice and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Moist & Flavorful: Buttery pound cake meets the natural sweetness of pineapple and strawberries.

Perfectly Balanced: Sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of richness.

Easy to Make: Simple ingredients, no complicated techniques.

Versatile: Enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or as a mid-day treat.

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

1. Overmixing the Batter

This can make the cake dense and tough. Mix until just combined for a soft texture.

2. Using Too Much Fruit

Excess moisture from too much pineapple or strawberries can make the cake soggy. Stick to the recommended amounts.

3. Skipping the Cooling Time

Slicing too soon can cause the cake to crumble. Let it cool completely for clean, even slices.

4. Baking at the Wrong Temperature

An oven that’s too hot will dry out the cake. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

With Coffee or Tea: The buttery richness pairs beautifully with a hot drink.

Topped with Whipped Cream: Adds a light, airy contrast.

With Vanilla Ice Cream: A decadent treat for warmer days.

As a Brunch Centerpiece: Serve it alongside eggs and fresh fruit.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Refrigerator: Keep for up to 5 days, wrapped tightly.

Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I substitute buttermilk?
You can make your own by mixing ½ cup milk + ½ tbsp lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes.

3. Why did my cake turn out dry?
It was likely overbaked. Check for doneness at the 50-minute mark.

4. Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes, just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the batter.

5. What if I don’t have a loaf pan?
You can bake this in a bundt pan—adjust the baking time to 45-50 minutes.

Tips & Tricks

– Toss strawberries in a little flour before adding them to the batter to prevent sinking.
– For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the batter.
– Drizzle warm glaze over a slightly warm cake for better absorption.
– Make mini loaves for easy grab-and-go treats—just adjust the baking time to 25-30 minutes.

Recipe Variations

1. Coconut Pineapple Pound Cake

Replace buttermilk with coconut milk.

Add ½ cup shredded coconut to the batter.

2. Lemon Berry Pound Cake

Swap pineapple juice for fresh lemon juice in the glaze.

Add zest of 1 lemon to the batter.

3. Chocolate Strawberry Pound Cake

Stir in ½ cup mini chocolate chips.

Use a chocolate drizzle instead of pineapple glaze.

Final Thoughts

Baking should be as enjoyable as eating the final product, and this Pineapple Strawberry Pound Cake makes both experiences delightful. The combination of tropical pineapple and fresh strawberries creates a cake that’s sweet but not overwhelming, rich but still light enough to enjoy any time of day.

If you love recipes that bring a little sunshine to your table, this one is worth keeping. It’s easy, delicious, and always a hit with family and friends. So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy a slice of something truly satisfying!