Two-Ingredient Pineapple Angel Food Cake

Discover a new twist on a classic dessert with this Two-Ingredient Pineapple Angel Food Cake. This recipe is ideal for those who cherish simplicity without sacrificing flavor. Imagine a cake that is light, airy, and laden with tropical pineapple sweetness. You’ll appreciate how minimal ingredients yield a delightfully fulfilling dessert.

Introduction

Angel food cake has long been celebrated for its delicate texture and subtle sweetness. With the addition of naturally sweet canned crushed pineapple, you get an indulgent dessert that is as guilt-free as it is delicious. This cake not only brightens up your table but also meets your baking needs when you want something quick and light. I created this recipe for busy days when you crave a sweet treat without spending hours in the kitchen. Every bite brings you’ll taste the freshness of pineapple combined with the fluffy consistency of an angel food cake.

Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual afternoon teatime, this cake fits any occasion. It is perfect as a standalone dessert or served alongside a refreshing scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Follow this recipe step by step and put a tropical spin on your next dessert.

Two-Ingredient Pineapple Angel Food Cake Vertical Photo

Ingredients

This cake focuses on simplicity. With just two ingredients, you’ll have a heavenly dessert on your hands. Here are the essentials:

Angel Food Cake Mix:
Choose any affordable brand. The mix provides structure and the delicate fluff that defines angel food cake.
Canned Crushed Pineapple (with juice):
Do not drain the juice. The syrup contributes moisture and natural sweetness to the batter, enhancing the tropical flavor.

Optional:
If you prefer a little extra indulgence, top your cake with frozen whipped cream or homemade whipped cream. It is a perfect addition that elevates the dessert further.

How to Make Two-Ingredient Pineapple Angel Food Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather a 9×13-inch pan or a bundt pan if you prefer a more traditional look. Use an ungreased pan. This cake needs to cling to the sides to retain its airy form during baking.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, pour in the angel food cake mix. Add the entire can of crushed pineapple along with its juice. Gently stir these ingredients together using a spatula. Avoid over-mixing to keep the batter light. The juices from the pineapple combine with the dry mix to create a moist, flavorful batter.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your ungreased pan, ensuring an even spread. Using a spatula, smooth the top lightly. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes. You will recognize doneness when the cake turns a lovely golden-brown color and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Cool and Release

Remove the cake from the oven. Let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. To release the cake, gently run a spatula along the edges of the pan. If you used a bundt pan, flip it over onto a cooling rack; this helps the cake retain its height. For our rectangular pan, allow the cake to cool completely before slicing.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooled, slice the cake into squares or wedges. For an extra special treat, top with whipped cream or add a scoop of your favorite ice cream. Enjoy the burst of pineapple in every airy bite. Serve as a dessert after dinner or as a sweet midday treat.

Tips for the Best Two-Ingredient Pineapple Angel Food Cake

To achieve the perfect texture and flavor, consider these helpful tips:

Use an Un-Greased Pan:
The cake needs to cling to the pan for proper rising. Greasing the pan hinders its ability to form an airy structure.
Mix Gently:
Use a spatula instead of an electric mixer. Over-beating or using high speeds may cause the cake to deflate and lose its light texture.
Maintain Oven Temperature:
Keep your oven at a constant 350°F. Avoid opening the oven mid-bake, which might disturb the rising process.
Cool Properly:
Allow the cake to cool completely. Cooling in the pan helps maintain its structure but ensure you remove it carefully afterward.
Experiment with Toppings:
Consider topping the cake with seasonal fruits, a drizzle of citrus glaze, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an attractive presentation.

Recipe Variations

While the basic recipe is simplistic by design, you can always add a twist to suit your taste:

Add a Bohemian Spirit

Spiking the Batter:
Add one or two tablespoons of rum to the batter before baking for a subtle alcoholic note. This version is perfect for a summer party treat.

Enhance the Tropical Flavor

Shredded Coconut:
Stir in a half cup of shredded coconut into the batter to intensify the tropical vibe. You can also sprinkle coconut on top before serving.

Fresh Fruit Toppings

Seasonal Berries:
Garnish slices with fresh strawberries or blueberries. This not only enhances flavor but also adds a burst of color.

Transform into a Poke Cake

Punch of Citrus:
After baking, poke small holes in the cake. Drizzle fresh orange juice over it. This method infuses a delightful citrus punch throughout the dessert.

Upside-Down Twist

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Influence:
Place a few slices of pineapple and a light drizzle of brown sugar on top before baking. Once inverted during serving, the toppings provide a caramelized finish.

How to Store Your Pineapple Angel Food Cake

This dessert works wonderfully as a make-ahead option. Here are suggestions to keep it fresh:

To Make Ahead

Wrap and Refrigerate:
Allow the cake to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. It stays fresh for 3-4 days. Add your toppings right before serving.

For Leftovers

Airtight Container:
Place slices in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. This preserves its moisture and flavor.

Freezing Instructions

Freeze Without Toppings:
Let the cake cool completely, then wrap it in plastic followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 4 months. If you plan to add whipped cream or other toppings, remove them before freezing. Reheat by letting the cake thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pineapple?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple if you blend it until the consistency is similar to crushed pineapple. Be sure to include some of the juice to maintain the moisture in the batter.

What type of pan should I use?

While a 9×13-inch pan works well, a bundt or tube pan is ideal for maintaining the cake’s height and structure. An ungreased pan is essential to help the cake climb.

Can I make this recipe without canned crushed pineapple?

The crushed pineapple plays a key role in adding moisture and flavor to the cake. Without it, it would not have the tropical taste and light texture. However, you might experiment with other fruit purees if you’d like a variation.

This Two-Ingredient Pineapple Angel Food Cake celebrates the beauty of simplicity in baking. The combination of dry angel food cake mix with juicy pineapple creates a dessert that is both refreshing and satisfying. You achieve a light texture reminiscent of traditional angel food cake along with the vibrant, tropical notes of pineapple.

I encourage you to try this recipe during a warm afternoon or serve it at your next gathering. Its uncomplicated preparation and delicious result make it suitable for bakers of all skill levels. Use the tips provided to enhance your end result and experiment with the various variations to make the recipe your own.

Baking this cake is an exercise in embracing simplicity. From the careful selection of ingredients to the technique of mixing and baking, every step enhances the final product. Enjoy experimenting with toppings and variations, and relish each bite of this unique, guilt-free delight.

Sharing your creation with friends and family can spark joy and inspire confidence in your baking skills. Let this cake be a testimony that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most memorable.

Follow these structured steps and tips, and you will master a dessert that is both elegant and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy your journey in the kitchen, and remember that the joy of baking lies in its simplicity and the happiness it brings to every table.