Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Cake Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and line two 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pans with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, sift together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil until well combined.
Add the crushed pineapple and lemon juice, stirring until evenly mixed.
Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
Gently fold with a spatula until just combined—do not overmix, as it can make the cake dense.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Tap the pans gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Pineapple Filling
In a saucepan over medium heat, mix:
½ cup pineapple juice
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp butter
¼ cup sugar
Stir continuously until thickened. Let it cool.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
In a bowl, beat mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whip cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.
Add the crushed pineapple, mixing gently.
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
Place the first cake layer on a plate.
Spread a layer of frosting and pipe a border around the edges.
Fill the center with pineapple filling.
Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake.
Step 9: Decorate the Cake
Smooth the frosting with a scraper.
Pipe a decorative border using a star piping tip.
Drizzle with maraschino cherry juice or pineapple glaze.
Sprinkle with toasted coconut or chopped pecans for extra crunch.
Garnish with fresh pineapple slices or maraschino cherries for a beautiful finish.
Step 10: Store the Cake
Refrigerate for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.