Moist Pineapple Layer Cake

Ingredients

All-purpose flour

2 1/2 cups

Baking powder

2 1/2 teaspoons

Salt

1/2 teaspoon

Unsalted butter

1 cup, softened

Granulated sugar

1 3/4 cups

Eggs

4 large

Vanilla extract

2 teaspoons

Buttermilk

1 cup

Crushed pineapple

1 cup, drained

Cream cheese

8 ounces, softened

Powdered sugar

2 cups

Whipped cream

2 cups, for frosting

Maraschino cherries

for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 9-inch round cake pans with butter and lightly dust with flour.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk and crushed pineapple. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
8. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. For the frosting, in a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
10. Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on top. Add the second layer and repeat the process. Place the third layer on top.
11. Frost the sides and top of the cake with whipped cream until smooth and even.
12. Garnish the top of the cake with maraschino cherries for a pop of color and sweetness.
13. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.