Name: Pineapple Lime Cake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 7 h 30 min
Yield: 14
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Lime Flan:; 14 oz sweetened condensed milk; 12 oz evaporated milk; ¼ cup lime juice; 4 large eggs; 2 tbsp lime zest; 1 pinch salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; For Pineapple Cake:; 20 oz pineapple slices in juice; 1¾ cups all purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp Baking Soda; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup white sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter; 2 large eggs; 1½ tsp vanilla extract; For Pineapple Caramel Topping:; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 pinch salt; For Garnish:; ½ tsp lime zest; 4 tart cherries

This delightful Pineapple Lime Cake recipe is a fusion of tropical flavors that will transport you to a Caribbean paradise. The zesty lime flan and pineapple cake layers are beautifully combined with a tantalizing pineapple caramel topping to create a dessert that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. It's the perfect centerpiece for your summer garden party or a comforting treat during the colder months.

Photos of Pineapple Lime Cake Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are generally common in most households. However, one ingredient you might need to be aware of when you head to the supermarket is the canned pineapple slices in juice. It is crucial to get the canned version as it provides the necessary juice for this recipe. Also, the lime zest is another essential ingredient that brings freshness and tanginess to the cake. You can find it in the produce section of your supermarket.

Ingredients for Pineapple Lime Cake

Sweetened condensed milk: A key ingredient for the lime flan, adding creaminess and sweetness.

Evaporated milk: It is used in the lime flan to add richness.

Lime juice: It gives the lime flan its characteristic tangy flavor.

Eggs: Eggs are used in both the flan and cake for structure and richness.

Lime zest: Adds a pop of citrus flavor to the flan and garnish.

Pineapple slices in juice: Used in the cake batter and caramel topping for a tropical flavor.

All purpose flour: The base for the pineapple cake.

Baking powder and baking soda: Leavening agents that help the cake rise.

White sugar: Adds sweetness to the pineapple cake.

Unsalted butter: Used in the cake and caramel topping for fat and flavor.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors of the cake and flan.

Brown sugar: Used in the caramel topping for a deep, molasses-like sweetness.

One reader, Gussi Hardman says:

This pineapple lime cake recipe is a game-changer! The combination of tangy lime flan and moist pineapple cake is pure bliss. The caramel topping adds a delightful sweetness. It's a showstopper dessert that's perfect for any occasion. I highly recommend trying it out!

Gussi Hardman

Essential Techniques for Making Pineapple Lime Cake

How to prepare lime flan: Combine the condensed milk, evaporated milk, lime juice, eggs, lime zest, salt, and vanilla extract in a large bowl; whisk until thoroughly combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan.

How to prepare pineapple cake: Blend the pineapple slices and juice in a food processor until smooth. Whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in a small bowl. Cream sugar and butter in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in vanilla. Alternate adding dry ingredients and pineapple puree, mixing until just combined. Place large spoonfuls of cake batter over the flan layer as evenly as possible.

How to make pineapple caramel topping: Combine the butter and brown sugar in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring often, until bubbling and sugar have melted. Pour in the reserved pineapple juice and cook until thoroughly combined. Add the reserved pineapple slices and cook, stirring the sauce frequently. Flip the pineapple slices over and cook until the sauce has thickened and turned a slightly deeper golden brown color.

How to garnish: Sprinkle lime zest over the cake and place tart cherries on top.

How To Make Pineapple Lime Cake

Topped with a luscious caramel topping, this pineapple lime cake has layers of silky lime flan and moist pineapple cake for a decadent dessert.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 30 minutes

Cool Time: 5 hours 30 minutes

Total: 7 hours 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Lime Flan:

14ozsweetened condensed milk,(1 can)
12ozevaporated milk,(1 can), fat free
¼cuplime juice,freshly squeezed
4large eggs,room temperature
2tbsplime zest
1pinchsalt
1tspvanilla extract

For Pineapple Cake:

20ozpineapple slices in juice,(1 can), undrained
1¾cupsall purpose flour
1tspbaking powder
1tspbaking soda
½tspsalt
1cupwhite sugar
½cupunsalted butter,softened
2large eggs,room temperature
1½tspvanilla extract

For Pineapple Caramel Topping:

2tbspunsalted butter
2tbspbrown sugar,firmly packed
1pinchsalt

For Garnish:

½tsplime zest,grated
4tart cherries,optional

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Generously grease a 10-inch fluted tube pan.

Lime Flan:

Combine the condensed milk, evaporated milk, lime juice, eggs, lime zest, salt, and vanilla extract for flan in a large bowl; whisk until thoroughly combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan.

Pineapple Cake:

Remove 4 pineapple slices and ½ cup of pineapple juice from the can of pineapple. Cover and place in the refrigerator to reserve for the caramel topping.
Place the remaining pineapple slices and juice in the bowl of a food processor, then blend until smooth. This should result in approximately 1¼ cups pureed pineapple.
Whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in a small bowl until combined.
Cream sugar and butter in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix the in vanilla.
Add ½ of the dry ingredients, and mix until just combined. Stir in ½ of the pineapple puree until just combined. Continue adding dry ingredients alternately with pineapple puree, mixing until just combined.
Place large spoonfuls of cake batter over the flan layer as evenly as possible. Cover the pan tightly with lightly greased aluminum foil and place it into a large roasting pan.
Place in the preheated oven and fill the roasting pan with enough water to come ⅓ of the way up the sides of the pan, or at least 1-inch deep.
Bake in the hot water bath for about 1½ hours until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the water bath, remove aluminum foil, and allow cake to cool in the pan for 1 hour.
Carefully run a table knife around the edges to loosen. Invert carefully onto a serving plate or platter and allow to cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Loosely cover cake and place into the refrigerator for 4 hours to overnight.

Pineapple Caramel Topping:

Shortly before serving the the cake, combine the butter and brown sugar for caramel topping in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring often, for about 2 minutes until bubbling and sugar have melted.
Pour in the reserved ½ cup of pineapple juice, then cook and stir for about 2 minutes until mixture is bubbling and thoroughly combined. Add the reserved pineapple slices and cook, stirring the sauce frequently for about 3 minutes.
Flip the pineapple slices over, then cook and stir for about 3 minutes until the sauce has thickened and turned a slightly deeper golden brown color.
Quickly and carefully place the pineapple slices on top of the cooled cake. Spoon caramel sauce over top of the pineapple slices and cake. Garnish with lime zest and cherries.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 369.53kcal
Fat: 14.78g
Saturated Fat: 8.58g
Trans Fat: 0.34g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.19g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.96g
Carbohydrates: 51.87g
Fiber: 1.15g
Sugar: 38.00g
Protein: 8.57g
Cholesterol: 118.19mg
Sodium: 314.67mg
Calcium: 193.69mg
Potassium: 286.57mg
Iron: 1.39mg
Vitamin A: 141.79µg
Vitamin C: 23.22mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Making Pineapple Lime Cake

When preparing the pineapple caramel topping, it's important to keep a close eye on the caramel as it cooks. Caramel can quickly go from perfect to burnt in a matter of seconds. To avoid this, stir the mixture frequently and remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches a deep golden brown color. This will ensure a sweet and flavorful topping for your pineapple lime cake.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Pineapple Lime Cake Recipe

Prepare the flan: To save time, you can use store-bought flan or custard instead of making it from scratch.

Use canned pineapple: Opt for canned pineapple slices instead of fresh ones to save time on peeling and slicing the fruit.

Make the caramel in advance: Prepare the caramel sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator to save time on the day of baking.

Bake the cake in advance: You can bake the cake a day ahead and refrigerate it, allowing the flavors to meld and saving time on the day of serving.

Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly puree the pineapple for the cake batter, saving time and effort compared to hand-mixing.

Substitute Ingredients For Pineapple Lime Cake Recipe

sweetened condensed milk - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream has a similar creamy texture and sweetness to sweetened condensed milk, making it a suitable substitute for dairy-free or vegan options.
evaporated milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can provide a rich and creamy texture similar to evaporated milk, and it adds a subtle coconut flavor to the dish.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can be used as a substitute for lime juice, providing a similar level of acidity and citrus flavor to the recipe.
lime zest - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can be used in place of lime zest, offering a bright citrus aroma and flavor to the dish.
pineapple slices in juice - Substitute with canned pineapple chunks: Canned pineapple chunks can be used as a substitute for pineapple slices, providing a similar sweet and tangy flavor to the cake.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used as a healthier alternative to all-purpose flour, adding a nutty flavor and extra nutrients to the cake.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free substitute for unsalted butter, adding a hint of coconut flavor to the cake.
white sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural alternative to white sugar, providing a caramel-like flavor and a lower glycemic index.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a liquid sweetener in place of brown sugar, adding a rich, caramel-like flavor to the recipe.
tart cherries - Substitute with raspberries: Raspberries can be used as a substitute for tart cherries, providing a similar tartness and vibrant color to the garnish.

Essential Tools for Making a Delicious Pineapple Lime Cake

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It can be used to blend the pineapple slices and juice for the pineapple cake in this recipe.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing the cake batter. It is used for whisking the dry ingredients and creaming the sugar and butter for the pineapple cake.
Fluted tube pan: A fluted tube pan, also known as a Bundt pan, is a round baking pan with a hollow center and decorative fluted sides. It is used to bake the cake and flan together, creating a beautifully shaped dessert.
Aluminum foil: Aluminum foil is used to cover the cake pan before baking in a water bath. It helps to ensure even cooking and prevent excess browning of the cake.
Roasting pan: A roasting pan is a large, deep pan used for roasting meats and vegetables. In this recipe, it is used to create a water bath for baking the cake, providing gentle and even heat distribution.
Skillet: A skillet, also known as a frying pan, is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and sautéing. It is used to prepare the pineapple caramel topping for the cake.
Table knife: A table knife, or a butter knife, is used to loosen the edges of the cake from the pan before inverting it onto a serving plate.
Serving plate or platter: A serving plate or platter is used to present and serve the finished cake. It should be large enough to accommodate the entire cake.

Storing and Freezing Pineapple Lime Cake

Allow the pineapple lime cake to cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store the cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
If you want to freeze the cake, follow these steps:
1. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
2. Cover the wrapped cake with a layer of aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn.
3. Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, labeling it with the date and contents.
4. Freeze the pineapple lime cake for up to 2 months.
To thaw the frozen cake:
1. Remove the cake from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
2. Once thawed, remove the aluminum foil and plastic wrap.
3. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving, which should take about 30 minutes to an hour.
If you want to freeze individual slices of the cake, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.
Thaw individual slices in the refrigerator or at room temperature when ready to serve.
For best results, prepare the pineapple caramel topping just before serving the cake, as it may not freeze well due to the high sugar content.

How To Reheat Leftover Pineapple Lime Cake

Reheat individual slices of leftover pineapple lime cake in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or until just warm. This method is quick and easy, but may result in a slightly soggy texture.
For a crispy texture, reheat slices of pineapple lime cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges. Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
If you have an air fryer, reheat individual slices of pineapple lime cake at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method is quick and helps maintain the cake's texture.
For a moist and tender texture, place a slice of pineapple lime cake on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave for 15-20 seconds, or until just warm. The damp paper towel helps prevent the cake from drying out.
If you want to reheat the entire pineapple lime cake, preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Loosely cover the cake with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the cake's moisture and prevents it from drying out.
For a quick and easy reheating method, place a slice of pineapple lime cake in a toaster oven and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges. Keep a close eye on the cake to prevent burning.

Interesting Fact About Pineapple Lime Cake

The pineapple lime cake recipe combines the tropical flavors of pineapple and lime in a delightful dessert. This unique cake features a layer of zesty lime flan topped with a moist pineapple cake, creating a delicious contrast of flavors and textures. The addition of a pineapple caramel topping adds a rich and sweet finish to the cake. This dessert is a perfect choice for those who enjoy the combination of citrus and tropical fruits in their baked goods.

Is Making Pineapple Lime Cake at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this pineapple lime cake recipe is quite favorable for a household. The ingredients, such as sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and flour, are commonly found in most kitchens. The use of canned pineapple and lime juice adds a refreshing twist without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly dessert option. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is Pineapple Lime Cake Healthy or Unhealthy?

This pineapple lime cake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High sugar content from the condensed milk, white sugar, and brown sugar
Significant amount of saturated fat from the butter and eggs
Refined carbohydrates from the all-purpose flour

However, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients, such as:

Pineapple, which is rich in vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants
Lime juice and zest, providing vitamin C and a bright, tangy flavor

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
Reduce the amount of sugar in the cake batter and caramel topping, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Use low-fat or fat-free versions of the condensed and evaporated milk to cut down on saturated fat
Incorporate more fruit, such as diced pineapple or berries, into the cake batter for added fiber, vitamins, and natural sweetness
Serve smaller portions and pair with a side of fresh fruit or a light, yogurt-based sauce to balance out the richness of the cake

Editor's Opinion on the Pineapple Lime Cake Recipe

As a culinary genius and chef, I must say this pineapple lime cake recipe is a delightful fusion of tropical flavors. The combination of the zesty lime flan and the moist pineapple cake creates a harmonious balance of sweet and tangy. The addition of the pineapple caramel topping adds a rich and indulgent touch, elevating the overall experience. The recipe's detailed instructions ensure a successful outcome, making it accessible for both experienced and novice bakers. This dessert is sure to impress and satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth. Enjoy creating and savoring this delightful treat!

Enhance Your Pineapple Lime Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper before grilling. Once cooked, finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for a burst of citrus flavor.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Roast the brussels sprouts until crispy, then toss in a balsamic glaze made with balsamic vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt for a sweet and tangy finish.

Savory Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans: Wrap bundles of green beans in smoky bacon and roast until the bacon is crispy and the green beans are tender. Serve with a side of tangy mustard dipping sauce for a delicious combination of flavors.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, cream, and roasted garlic for a rich and creamy side dish that pairs perfectly with the tangy sweetness of the pineapple lime cake.

Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme: Roast the carrots with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of fresh thyme until caramelized and tender. The hint of sweetness and earthy herb flavor will complement the tropical flavors of the cake.

Delicious Alternatives to Pineapple Lime Cake

Mango Coconut Popsicles: These refreshing popsicles are the perfect treat for a hot summer day. The combination of sweet mango and creamy coconut will have you coming back for more.

Spicy Beef Stir-Fry: This flavorful stir-fry is packed with tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a spicy sauce that will leave your taste buds tingling. It's a quick and easy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.

Tomato Basil Soup: This classic soup is made with ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a touch of cream for richness. It's the ultimate comfort food and pairs perfectly with a grilled cheese sandwich.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Pineapple Lime Cake Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy filling, making it a delightful start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta. Toasted bread topped with a vibrant mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil creates a burst of flavor in every bite. It's a refreshing and light option to kick off a meal.

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Impress your guests with a perfectly grilled salmon fillet, served with a zesty lemon dill sauce and a side of roasted asparagus. The combination of flavors and textures will leave everyone wanting more.

Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in a creamy and flavorful mushroom risotto, made with Arborio rice, white wine, and a variety of mushrooms. The rich and comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner party.

Why trust this Pineapple Lime Cake Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the zesty tang of lime. The creamy flan layer adds a luxurious texture, while the moist and flavorful pineapple cake provides a delightful contrast. The use of fresh lime zest and juice ensures a vibrant and authentic citrus flavor. The methodical instructions and careful attention to detail guarantee a successful outcome. Trust in the harmonious blend of tropical fruits and citrus to elevate your dessert experience.

Share your thoughts on this delightful Pineapple Lime Cake recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum section and let us know if you have any tips or variations to suggest.

FAQ:

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple. Just make sure to remove the skin and core, and then blend the pineapple to get the required amount of puree for the cake.

Can I make this cake without the flan layer?

Absolutely! You can make the pineapple cake without the flan layer. Simply skip the steps for making the lime flan and proceed with making the pineapple cake as directed.

How can I tell if the cake is done baking?

You can check if the cake is done baking by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. It should take about 1½ hours in the water bath to bake completely.

Can I make the cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time. After cooling the cake to room temperature, you can refrigerate it for 4 hours to overnight before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set properly.

Can I use a different fruit for the caramel topping?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different fruits for the caramel topping. Mango, passion fruit, or even orange would work well with the flavors of the cake. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the caramel is the right consistency.