♥ Pineapple Cake with Cheese Cake Filling

Now this is one of my baking experiments that turned out great. I don't always create the master piece I have in my mind when I set out to make something for the first time but this one hit the mark. Last summer I wanted to make a cake for a family cookout,  but not just any cake. I wanted something creamy and rich with a tropical flare.  I made a basic yellow cake, added some pineapple juice and then filled it with cheese cake filling and topped it with a cherry! It was the perfect combination. Notice the cherry is missing on top? My Dad got to it before I took the picture! 

Pineapple Cake with Cheese Cake Filling 

1 super moist yellow cake mix 
1 tablespoon pineapple juice 
1 egg 
milk 
butter, melted 

Follow the directions on any super moist yellow cake mix you choose (I like Duncan Hines), however, replace the oil in the recipe and use melted butter instead. Replace the water in the recipe and use whole milk instead. Add one more large egg than the directions call for, and add the tablespoon of pineapple juice. Then follow the directions for baking. Pour batter into two greased 6 inch cake pans. Bake as directed on box or until cake tester comes out clean when inserted in the center of cakes.

Once the two cakes have finished baking, allow them to cool completely. 

No Bake Cheese Cake Filling 

3 (8oz each) packages cream cheese (room temperature) 
2/3 cups plus 6 tablespoons sugar 
1 1/2 cups whipping cream 
3 tablespoons pure vanilla extract 

In the electric mixer on high speed whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form and set aside. Then in another bowl, on medium speed, mix the cream cheese, sugar and vanilla until light and creamy. Fold in the whipped cream. 

Cake Assembly 

Make cake as directed and cool completely. Slice the two cakes in half lengthwise through the middle, using a long serrated knife.  Set all four of the cake layers aside.

Place your  bottom layer on a plate. It should be evenly flat on top.  Pour and spread some of the cheesecake filling on bottom layer.  Top with a second cake layer that should be evenly flat as well.  Pour and spread some of the cheesecake filling on second layer. Add a third layer making sure it is also evenly flat on top. With a flat spatula spread the remaining filling on top and all around the sides cake.  

Next, place a pineapple ring on top of cake and gently press down into filling.  Make fine crumbs out of the final layer you did not use by using a food processor.  Apply cake crumbs to the sides of cake. Top with a maraschino cherry for an added garnish! 

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