Delicious Taiwanese Pineapple Cake with Easy Canned Filling

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

When the holidays roll around, I find myself craving the unique flavors of Taiwan, and that s when my thoughts inevitably turn to the delightful Taiwanese Pineapple Cake. The moment I take a bite, the buttery pastry gives way to a soft, tangy filling that dances on my palate, bringing nostalgia with every morsel. I stumbled upon this recipe during one of my cooking experiments, and it quickly became a family favorite, especially during festive gatherings.

What I love most about this cake is how easily it comes together using canned pineapple, allowing me to capture that beloved flavor without hours of prep. Whether you re looking to impress guests at a get-together or simply indulge in a traditional dessert, this recipe is a delightful option that s both simple and sophisticated. Join me in creating a beautiful batch of Taiwanese Pineapple Cakes that will surely elevate any occasion!

Why is Taiwanese Pineapple Cake a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery pastry and tangy pineapple filling creates a delightful taste experience that is hard to resist.

Quick Preparation: Using canned pineapple makes this recipe incredibly easy, perfect for busy cooks who want a homemade treat without the fuss.

Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: This cake is not only a traditional favorite, but it s also sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.

Versatile Enjoyment: Enjoy these cakes with tea or as a festive dessert they fit perfectly into any occasion.

Nostalgic Touch: Bring a taste of Taiwan to your kitchen and share a slice of tradition with loved ones. For more delightful dessert ideas, check out my collection of easy desserts.

Taiwanese Pineapple Cake Ingredients

For the Pineapple Filling
Canned Pineapple This is the main filling component that provides the fruity flavor; using canned ensures flavor consistency and easier texture.
Fine Sugar Sweetens the filling while balancing the tartness of the pineapple.

For the Pastry Dough
Low-Gluten Flour Essential for forming the pastry, resulting in a tender texture; be sure to use low-gluten flour for best results.
Whole Milk Powder Adds creaminess and richness to the pastry.
Butter Provides moisture and a rich taste; using high-quality butter enhances aroma and flavor.
Eggs Contributes to the structure and richness of the pastry.
Powdered Sugar Sweetens and adds a finer texture to the pastry.
Salt Enhances the overall flavor profile of the pastry.

Notes
Ensure to drain and properly squeeze out excess juice from the canned pineapple to prevent the pastry from getting soggy as you create your delicious Taiwanese Pineapple Cake!

How to Make Taiwanese Pineapple Cake

1. Prepare the Pineapple Filling: Drain the canned pineapple thoroughly, chop it into small pieces, and gently squeeze out any excess juice. This step is crucial to avoid a soggy filling.

2. Cook Filling: In a non-stick pan, combine your chopped pineapple, sugar, and the syrup from the can. Cook over medium heat for about 10-12 minutes until the mixture thickens, stirring frequently. Let it cool completely before using.

3. Make Pastry Dough: In a mixing bowl, softly beat together the butter, powdered sugar, and salt until creamy. Incorporate the eggs and whole milk powder until fluffy, then gradually mix in the low-gluten flour to form a soft, smooth dough.

4. Assemble Cakes: Divide your cooled pineapple filling and pastry dough into portions with a ratio of 6:4. Roll the pastry into balls, flatten each piece, place a spoonful of filling in the center, and carefully shape the dough into squares, sealing well.

5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Press the dough into molds and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for around 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Let the cakes cool in the molds for a better texture before carefully removing them.

Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Taiwanese Pineapple Cake

• Canned Pineapple Choice: Using high-quality canned pineapple ensures consistent flavor and texture without sacrificing taste. Look for fruit packed in juice or light syrup.

• Squeeze Thoroughly: Always squeeze out excess juice from the pineapple to avoid a soggy filling. This keeps your Taiwanese Pineapple Cake perfectly moist without compromising the pastry s integrity.

• Dough Consistency: Ensure your pastry dough is soft but not too sticky. If it s too wet, add a little more low-gluten flour until you achieve the right texture for easy handling.

• Chill Filling: Allow the pineapple filling to cool completely before assembling. A cool filling prevents the pastry from melting and losing shape during baking.

• Oven Accuracy: Always preheat your oven to 180 °C (350 °F) for the best results. Using a thermometer can help ensure the temperature is accurate and aids in even baking.

Make Ahead Options

These Taiwanese Pineapple Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pineapple filling up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully; simply cook and cool it as per the recipe, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the pastry dough can be prepared 24 hours ahead of time and refrigerated; just ensure it s well-wrapped to maintain its quality. When you re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before shaping and filling. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked Taiwanese Pineapple Cakes with minimal effort on busy weeknights, just as delicious as if made fresh!

What to Serve with Taiwanese Pineapple Cake?

Indulging in slices of Taiwanese Pineapple Cake opens up a world of delightful pairings to complete your dessert experience.

• Earl Grey Tea: The floral notes in Earl Grey beautifully complement the tangy sweetness of the cake, enhancing its flavors and making each bite a blissful experience.
• Coconut Sorbet: A refreshing, creamy sorbet adds a tropical twist, harmonizing with the pineapple filling and providing a cooling sensation on the palate.
• Sticky Rice: Pairing it with sweet sticky rice allows for a unique textural contrast, and the mild sweetness balances the tangy cake.
• Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries and blueberries introduces a burst of freshness, marrying well with the cake s caramelized flavors while adding a vibrant color to your plate.
• Matcha Latte: The earthy undertones of matcha create a delightful contrast with the sweetness, making it a great drink pairing that feels both indulgent and health-conscious.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds creaminess and richness, elevating this traditional dessert into something extra special for gatherings.
• Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling warm chocolate ganache over the cake introduces a decadent touch that attracts chocolate lovers and provides a wonderful flavor clash.
• Lychee Martini: For a fun adult twist, sip a lychee martini alongside the cake for a refreshing, fruity bite that mirrors the tropical flavors of the filling.

Taiwanese Pineapple Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative with this classic recipe and customize your Taiwanese Pineapple Cake to suit your taste preferences!

• Fresh Pineapple: Substitute canned for fresh pineapple, but adjust the sugar for sweetness balance. Fresh pineapple brings a vibrant flavor that can be more tangy, enhancing the cake s overall freshness.

• Fruit Spread: Use your favorite fruit spreads like mango or strawberry instead of pineapple filling. This twist offers a delightful surprise, and you can mix flavors for a mini sampling experience!

• Nutella Filling: Replace the pineapple with Nutella for a rich, chocolatey alternative. The combination of buttery pastry with hazelnut chocolate creates a luscious dessert that s simply irresistible.

• Coconut Cream: Add shredded coconut to the pineapple filling for extra texture and flavor. This adds a delightful chewiness and a tropical flair to each bite, transporting you to paradise.

• Spiced Filling: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the pineapple filling for a warm, spiced flavor. These spices bring cozy, holiday vibes, perfect for winter gatherings and festive celebrations.

• Savory Twist: Experiment with a savory filling using cream cheese and herbs as a unique appetizer alternative. Imagine the blend of creamy and herbaceous flavors enveloped in that golden pastry, surprising your guests delightfully.

• Gluten-Free Flour: Use gluten-free flour as a substitute for low-gluten flour to make it accessible for gluten-sensitive friends. You can enjoy the same rich texture and flavor while accommodating dietary needs.

• Extra Zest: Add a touch of lemon or orange zest to the filling for a refreshing citrus kick. This brightens the flavors beautifully and can uplift the overall taste experience wonderfully.

Storage Tips for Taiwanese Pineapple Cake

Room Temperature: Store the Taiwanese Pineapple Cake in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days to maintain its delightful texture and flavor.

Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the cake in an airtight container; it will last for up to a week, but it s best enjoyed within 3-5 days.

Freezer: To extend storage further, freeze the cakes for up to 2 months. Place them in an airtight freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven at 150 °C (300 °F) for about 10 minutes to restore that lovely softness.

Taiwanese Pineapple Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of canned pineapple should I use?
Absolutely! It s best to opt for high-quality canned pineapple that is packed in juice or light syrup. By doing so, you ensure flavorful filling and the right texture for your Taiwanese Pineapple Cake. Avoid those with added sugars or preservatives for the best taste.

How should I store leftover Taiwanese Pineapple Cake?
You can keep your Taiwanese Pineapple Cake in a sealed container at room temperature for about 2-3 days. If you want to enjoy it longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to a week, though it s most delicious within the first 3-5 days.

Can I freeze Taiwanese Pineapple Cake?
Yes! For long-term storage, freeze the cakes for up to 2 months. Wrap each cake individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag. When you re ready to eat, just thaw them at room temperature and reheat in the oven at 150 °C (300 °F) for about 10 minutes to restore softness.

What if my pastry dough is too sticky?
If your pastry dough is too sticky to handle, don t worry! You can gradually add small amounts of low-gluten flour until you reach the desired consistency. Ideally, the dough should be soft and manageable, which makes shaping them into cakes much easier.

How can I avoid a soggy filling in my cakes?
Squeezing out excess juice from the canned pineapple is key! After draining and chopping the pineapple, use a clean dish towel or paper towels to gently squeeze out any extra moisture. This ensures that your filling won t make the pastry soggy and that your Taiwanese Pineapple Cake has a lovely texture.

Is there a suitable alternative for gluten-free diets?
Certainly! If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute the low-gluten flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum to help maintain the cake s structure.