Here is a complete and clearly formatted guide for **Pineapple Cake**, including all the requested sections without wide lines:
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### **Pineapple Cake**
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### **Introduction and Origin**
Pineapple cake is a moist, tropical-flavored dessert known for its bright sweetness and rich texture. While pineapple itself originates from South America, the cake became popular in the U.S. during the mid-20th century with the rise of canned fruit and “dump” cakes. Versions of pineapple cake also appear in Asian cuisines, especially Taiwan, where it is a prized pastry.
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### **Cultural Significance**
In Western traditions, pineapple cake is often associated with Southern hospitality and potluck gatherings. It reflects the post-WWII era’s fascination with convenience baking. In Taiwan, pineapple cake (“feng li su”) is a popular gift symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. Its versatility and cheerful flavor make it a favorite across cultures.
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### **Ingredients Quantity** *(Serves 10–12)*
**For the Cake:**
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 2 cups granulated sugar
* 1 tsp baking soda
* 1/2 tsp salt
* 2 large eggs
* 1 tsp vanilla extract
* 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple with juice
**For the Frosting (optional but recommended):**
* 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), softened
* 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
* 2 cups powdered sugar
* 1 tsp vanilla extract
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### **Optional Additions**
* 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
* 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
* Shredded coconut (in the batter or as a topping)
* Maraschino cherries for garnish
* Swap frosting for a pineapple glaze or whipped cream
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### **Tips for Success**
* Use pineapple **with juice** for maximum moisture
* Don’t overmix the batter—just until combined
* Let the cake cool completely before frosting
* For a healthier twist, reduce sugar or use coconut sugar
* Store in the fridge to preserve freshness, especially with cream cheese frosting
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### **Instructions**
1. **Preheat Oven** to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. **Add Wet Ingredients:** Stir in eggs, vanilla, and the entire can of crushed pineapple (including juice). Mix until just combined.
4. **Bake:** Pour batter into the prepared dish and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. **Cool:** Let cake cool completely before frosting.
6. **Make Frosting (if using):** Beat butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, and beat until fluffy. Spread over cooled cake.
7. **Serve:** Garnish if desired and enjoy!
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### **Description**
This pineapple cake is delightfully soft, moist, and rich with tropical flavor. The crushed pineapple adds both sweetness and texture, while the cream cheese frosting provides a tangy balance. It’s simple, nostalgic, and crowd-pleasing—perfect for any occasion.
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### **Nutritional Information** *(Per serving, based on 12 slices with frosting)*
* **Calories:** \~380
* **Fat:** 18g
* **Carbohydrates:** 50g
* **Sugar:** 35g
* **Protein:** 4g
* **Fiber:** 1g
* **Sodium:** 220mg
*Values may vary depending on toppings and ingredient brands.*
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### **Conclusion and Recommendation**
Pineapple cake is an easy yet indulgent dessert that delivers bold flavor and comforting texture. It’s perfect for birthdays, summer gatherings, or simply a cozy dessert after dinner. Its one-bowl preparation and moist crumb make it a reliable go-to for both novice and seasoned bakers.
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### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
To enjoy a lighter version of this cake:
* Reduce sugar by 1/4–1/2 cup or use a natural sweetener
* Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber
* Use Greek yogurt or applesauce in place of some oil or butter
* Choose a lower-fat cream cheese or top with lightly sweetened Greek yogurt
* Add pineapple chunks and skip frosting for a more fruit-forward, clean dessert
With just a few smart swaps, you can still savor the sweet taste of pineapple cake with less guilt and more nutrition.
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