The Perfect Pineapple Caramel Cake

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Cake:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
• In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
• Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is well incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients.
• Stir in the crushed pineapple along with its juice, ensuring it’s evenly mixed.
• Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Making the Caramel Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Stir in the brown sugar and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, constantly stirring, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens.
• Reduce the heat and carefully add the heavy cream. Stir the mixture until smooth and well combined.
• Remove from heat, add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, and stir again.

3. Assembling the Cake:

• Once the cake is completely cooled, place it on a serving plate.
• Drizzle the warm caramel sauce generously over the top of the cake. You can also let it flow down the sides for a more dramatic effect.
• Optional: Garnish with a few pineapple slices or chopped nuts like toasted pecans for added texture and flavor.

4. Serving:

• Allow the caramel to set for a few minutes before slicing into the cake.
• Serve each slice with an extra drizzle of caramel sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.

Tips for Perfection:

• For a denser cake: Substitute sour cream or Greek yogurt for buttermilk. It’ll give the cake a slightly denser, creamier texture.
• For a deeper pineapple flavor: Use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a more vibrant taste.
• To make it even more decadent: Add a layer of whipped cream or a sprinkling of toasted coconut on top for added richness and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Cake:

The combination of tangy pineapple and velvety caramel creates a symphony of flavors that makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re a pineapple fan or not, the cake’s texture and the warm caramel sauce will win you over. This is the kind of cake that tastes like a special occasion but is simple enough to make any day feel like a celebration.

Try the Perfect Pineapple Caramel Cake today, and enjoy a slice of tropical heaven drizzled with sweet, homemade caramel goodness!