Pineapple Cake in a Glass Dish: The Perfect Dessert for the Whole Family
Introduction
Some desserts are light and fruity, others rich and creamy, and then there are those rare recipes that combine the best of both worlds.
Pineapple Cake in a Glass Dish is one of those treasures. A delightful fusion of moist sponge cake, tropical pineapple, smooth custard-like cream, and airy whipped topping, this dessert isn’t just a treat — it’s an experience.
Perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, Sunday lunches, or even holidays, this recipe offers everything you could want in a dessert: flavor, texture, beauty, and ease of serving. Unlike layer cakes that require elaborate decorating, Pineapple Cake in a Glass Dish is assembled in one baking dish, making it simple yet stunning.
When brought to the table, it looks elegant, tastes divine, and feeds a crowd with ease.
Whether you’re already a fan of pineapple desserts or simply looking for something new to surprise your loved ones, this cake delivers in every bite.
Why This Recipe Works
The success of Pineapple Cake in a Glass Dish lies in the perfect balance of its components and the clever way they come together:
Moist Sponge Base – The cake is light, airy, and tender, thanks to whipped egg whites and a gentle folding method. The addition of hot milk gives the crumb extra softness.
Tropical Fruit Layer – Pineapple jam (or crushed pineapple cooked into a quick jam) infuses the cake with tangy sweetness, balancing the richness of the cream.
Velvety White Cream Filling – Made with milk, condensed milk, powdered milk, and cornstarch, this luscious cream provides a custard-like texture that sets beautifully and pairs wonderfully with fruit.
Whipped Cream Topping – Light and fluffy, it creates an irresistible cloud-like finish.
Glass Dish Presentation – Serving this cake in a glass dish isn’t just practical — it’s visually stunning. Guests can see the distinct layers, and cutting portions is much easier than with a traditional layer cake.
In short, this recipe works because every element complements the others. The tropical pineapple cuts through the richness of cream, while the sponge anchors everything in a soft but structured base.
What You’ll Need For This Recipe
To make Pineapple Cake in a Glass Dish, you’ll need everyday pantry staples and a few special ingredients:
For the Cake Base:
6 eggs – Separate whites and yolks for a fluffy, structured sponge.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Ensures a light rise.
1 cup all-purpose flour – The foundation of the sponge.
1 cup hot milk – Softens and enriches the batter.
1 cup sugar – Sweetens the cake and stabilizes the whipped eggs.
For the White Cream Filling:
4 cups whole milk – Base for the custard-like filling.
2 egg yolks, strained – Adds richness and color.
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk – Sweet, creamy depth.
5 tablespoons powdered milk – Intensifies creaminess.
4 tablespoons cornstarch – Thickens the cream to pudding consistency.
A few drops of vanilla extract – Flavor enhancer.
1 small carton (7 ounces) heavy cream – Stirred in at the end for a silky finish.
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
3 egg whites – Beaten stiff for volume.
6 tablespoons sugar – Sweetens the meringue-like base.
1 can cream (without serum) – Folded in for smoothness.
For Assembly:
Pineapple jam – Spread between layers for tropical flavor.
Coconut milk + sugar – A drizzle that keeps the sponge moist and adds a hint of coconut.
How To Make Pineapple Cake in a Glass Dish
Step 1: Bake the Sponge Cake
Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
Add the yolks one by one, continuing to beat until smooth.
Gradually beat in the sugar until a pale cream forms.
Gently fold in sifted flour.
Pour in hot milk and stir lightly.
Add baking powder last, folding carefully.
Pour into a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until golden and springy.
Step 2: Make the White Cream Filling
In a saucepan, whisk milk, condensed milk, powdered milk, strained yolks, cornstarch, and vanilla.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream for smoothness.
Allow to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping
Beat egg whites until stiff.
Gradually add sugar until glossy.
Gently fold in cream (without serum).
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Cut the sponge in half horizontally.
Place one layer in the glass dish, cut-side up.
Drizzle with pineapple jam.
Spread the white cream evenly over the jam.
Place the second cake layer on top (dough side up).
Drizzle with coconut milk + sugar mixture.
Spread whipped cream topping generously over the cake.
Cover with foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
Tips + Tricks & More for Recipe Success
Room Temperature Eggs – For maximum volume, let eggs warm up before beating.
Hot Milk Trick – Don’t skip heating the milk — it keeps the sponge moist and tender.
Strain the Yolks – Prevents lumps in the cream filling.
Use Fresh Pineapple Jam – If possible, cook crushed pineapple with sugar into a jam; it tastes brighter and fresher than store-bought.
Chill Thoroughly – Refrigerating overnight helps the layers set and flavors meld.
Sharp Knife for Cutting – For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water before cutting.
Decorate Creatively – Sprinkle toasted coconut, pineapple chunks, or even maraschino cherries on top before serving.
With these tricks, your Pineapple Cake in a Glass Dish will come out bakery-quality every single time.
How To Serve
When ready to serve, remove the foil and admire the layered beauty of your Pineapple Cake in a Glass Dish. Use a wide serving spoon or cake spatula to scoop generous portions, ensuring every serving includes sponge, pineapple, cream, and topping.
Because it’s chilled, it’s wonderfully refreshing and perfect for warm-weather occasions. Serve it straight from the fridge for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
As a Summer Dessert: Pair with iced coffee or chilled tea.
For Celebrations: Top with edible flowers, pineapple slices, or colorful sprinkles.
For Kids: Serve in smaller glass cups as individual trifles.
For Adults: Add a splash of rum or Malibu coconut liqueur to the pineapple jam for a boozy kick.
Holiday Twist: Garnish with red and green cherries at Christmas for a festive look.
Time
One of the best things about Pineapple Cake in a Glass Dish is that most of the time is hands-off.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 30 minutes
Assembly Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 4–6 hours (overnight recommended)
Total Time: About 5.5–7 hours including chilling
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious, Pineapple Cake in a Glass Dish is the answer. With its tender sponge layers, tropical pineapple filling, luscious cream, and fluffy topping, it’s a dessert that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
The glass dish presentation makes it easy to prepare and serve, while the layers look impressive without requiring complicated techniques.
From family dinners to holiday parties, this cake will become one of those recipes everyone asks for after tasting.
It’s refreshing yet indulgent, nostalgic yet sophisticated. Try making it once, and it’s bound to earn a permanent spot in your dessert rotation.
Because at the end of the day, nothing brings people together quite like a chilled, creamy, fruity slice of Pineapple Cake in a Glass Dish.