If you’ve ever been to Starbucks, you know that their baked goods are just as famous as their coffee. One item that stands out and has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of many is the Starbucks Pineapple Cloud Cake. This delightful dessert is a fluffy, light cake infused with tropical pineapple flavors, topped with a creamy, dreamy frosting that makes you feel like you’re biting into a cloud. The great news is that you don’t need to visit Starbucks every time you crave this cake—you can make it at home with a recipe that’s both simple and delicious.
Table of Contents
Prep Time and Cooking Time for Starbucks Pineapple Cloud Cake
Before we dive into the ingredients and steps, let’s talk about the time you’ll need to set aside to make this luscious cake.
Prep Time: Approximately 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: About 55 minutes
This recipe is designed to be straightforward and accessible, even for those who aren’t expert bakers. With just under an hour, you can whip up a cake that will not only impress your family and friends but will also satisfy your craving for that Starbucks treat.
Nutritional Value of Starbucks Pineapple Cloud Cake
Understanding the nutritional value of what you’re eating is essential, especially if you’re watching your diet or have specific dietary needs. The Starbucks Pineapple Cloud Cake is a treat, and while it’s delicious, it’s always good to know what you’re indulging in. Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional content per slice (assuming the cake is cut into 8 slices):
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 4g
These values are approximate and can vary depending on the exact ingredients and brands you use. This cake is a rich, indulgent treat, so it’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to spoil yourself with something sweet.
Ingredients for Starbucks Pineapple Cloud Cake
One of the beauties of this cake is that it doesn’t require any obscure or hard-to-find ingredients. Everything you need can be easily found in your local grocery store, making this an accessible recipe for everyone. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained (reserve the juice)
For the Pineapple Syrup:
- ¼ cup reserved pineapple juice
- ¼ cup sugar
For the Cloud Frosting:
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained
Instructions for Making Starbucks Pineapple Cloud Cake
Now that we’ve gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to dive into the process of making this delightful cake. Follow these instructions carefully to achieve that perfect, cloud-like texture that makes this cake so special.
Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing an 8-inch round cake pan. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting is an important step that ensures the flour is light and free from lumps, which contributes to the airy texture of the cake.
In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the batter, which helps the cake rise and achieve its soft, cloud-like texture. This should take about 3-4 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.
Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Adding the eggs one by one ensures that they are fully incorporated into the batter, preventing any curdling. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake, so be careful not to overdo it. Finally, fold in the crushed pineapple with a spatula. The pineapple should be evenly distributed throughout the batter, giving every bite a burst of tropical flavor.
Step 2: Baking the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven, so start checking at the 30-minute mark.
While the cake is baking, take a moment to prepare the pineapple syrup, which will add an extra layer of flavor and moisture to the cake.
Step 3: Making the Pineapple Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine the reserved pineapple juice and sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once the syrup is ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
When the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer the cake to a wire rack. While the cake is still warm, use a skewer or toothpick to poke holes all over the top of the cake. This step allows the pineapple syrup to seep into the cake, making it extra moist and flavorful.
Slowly pour the pineapple syrup over the cake, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. The syrup will absorb into the cake, infusing it with even more pineapple goodness. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
Step 4: Preparing the Cloud Frosting
The cloud frosting is what gives this cake its name and its signature appearance. It’s light, airy, and perfectly complements the dense, moist cake beneath it.
To make the frosting, start by whipping the heavy cream in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer with a whisk attachment on medium-high speed. Whip the cream until soft peaks form—this means the cream should hold its shape but still be slightly soft.
Next, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. The cream should be thick and hold its shape well without being over-whipped.
Gently fold in the crushed pineapple until it’s evenly distributed throughout the frosting. The pineapple adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of tartness that balances the richness of the cream.
Step 5: Assembling the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, it’s time to assemble. Start by placing the cake on a serving platter or cake stand. Using a spatula, spread the cloud frosting evenly over the top of the cake. You can leave the sides bare for a more rustic look or frost the sides for a more polished appearance.
For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the top of the cake with a few pineapple slices or chunks. You could also add a sprinkle of toasted coconut or a drizzle of pineapple syrup if you like.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Starbucks Pineapple Cloud Cake
Now that you’ve got the basic recipe down, let’s talk about some tips and tricks to make sure your Starbucks Pineapple Cloud Cake comes out perfect every time.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before you start. Room temperature ingredients combine more easily, which results in a smoother batter and a lighter cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you’ve added the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can cause the gluten in the flour to develop too much, resulting in a tough, dense cake.
- Drain the Pineapple Well: Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly before adding it to the batter. Excess moisture can affect the texture of the cake.
- Use Fresh Pineapple: If you have the time, using fresh pineapple instead of canned can make a big difference in flavor. Just be sure to finely chop it or pulse it in a food processor to achieve the right consistency.
- Chill the Frosting Bowl: For the best results, chill the mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream. This helps the cream whip up faster and hold its shape better.
- Serve Chilled: This cake is best served chilled. The frosting will be firmer, and the flavors will be more pronounced after a few hours in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Starbucks Pineapple Cloud Cake ahead of time. The cake itself can be baked a day in advance and stored at room temperature, covered tightly. The frosting can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to assemble the cake the day you plan to serve it to keep the frosting fresh and fluffy.
Q2: Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! The cake can be frozen, but it’s best to do so before adding the frosting. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight and then frost it with the cloud frosting.
Q3: Can I make a gluten-free version of this cake?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a 1:1 baking blend that includes xanthan gum to ensure the best texture. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Q4: Can I use a different fruit instead of pineapple?
Certainly! While pineapple is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other fruits like mango, peach, or even berries. Just be sure to adjust the sugar levels accordingly, as different fruits have different levels of sweetness.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained (reserve the juice)
For the Pineapple Syrup:
- ¼ cup reserved pineapple juice
- ¼ cup sugar
For the Cloud Frosting:
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing an 8-inch round cake pan. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting is an important step that ensures the flour is light and free from lumps, which contributes to the airy texture of the cake.
In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the batter, which helps the cake rise and achieve its soft, cloud-like texture. This should take about 3-4 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.
Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Adding the eggs one by one ensures that they are fully incorporated into the batter, preventing any curdling. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake, so be careful not to overdo it. Finally, fold in the crushed pineapple with a spatula. The pineapple should be evenly distributed throughout the batter, giving every bite a burst of tropical flavor.
Step 2: Baking the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven, so start checking at the 30-minute mark.
While the cake is baking, take a moment to prepare the pineapple syrup, which will add an extra layer of flavor and moisture to the cake.
Step 3: Making the Pineapple Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine the reserved pineapple juice and sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once the syrup is ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
When the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer the cake to a wire rack. While the cake is still warm, use a skewer or toothpick to poke holes all over the top of the cake. This step allows the pineapple syrup to seep into the cake, making it extra moist and flavorful.
Slowly pour the pineapple syrup over the cake, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. The syrup will absorb into the cake, infusing it with even more pineapple goodness. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
Step 4: Preparing the Cloud Frosting
The cloud frosting is what gives this cake its name and its signature appearance. It’s light, airy, and perfectly complements the dense, moist cake beneath it.
To make the frosting, start by whipping the heavy cream in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer with a whisk attachment on medium-high speed. Whip the cream until soft peaks form—this means the cream should hold its shape but still be slightly soft.
Next, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. The cream should be thick and hold its shape well without being over-whipped.
Gently fold in the crushed pineapple until it’s evenly distributed throughout the frosting. The pineapple adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of tartness that balances the richness of the cream.
Step 5: Assembling the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, it’s time to assemble. Start by placing the cake on a serving platter or cake stand. Using a spatula, spread the cloud frosting evenly over the top of the cake. You can leave the sides bare for a more rustic look or frost the sides for a more polished appearance.
For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the top of the cake with a few pineapple slices or chunks. You could also add a sprinkle of toasted coconut or a drizzle of pineapple syrup if you like.
Conclusion
The Starbucks Pineapple Cloud Cake is more than just a cake—it’s a culinary experience that brings together the sweetness of pineapple, the lightness of a perfectly baked cake, and the creamy, cloud-like frosting that makes it so special. Whether you’re making this cake for a special occasion or just to satisfy a craving, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.
By following the detailed instructions and tips provided, you can recreate this Starbucks favorite in your own kitchen, complete with the tropical flavors and light, airy texture that make it so beloved. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy every delicious bite!
