Pineapple-Macadamia Nut Cake

Ingredients

• 1 box of yellow or white cake mix
• 1 (20-ounce) can of crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1/2 cup of macadamia nuts, chopped
• 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup of water
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup of sweetened shredded coconut
• Optional: 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix, pineapple (including the juice), macadamia nuts, oil, eggs, water, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
3. Stir the ingredients until everything is well blended and the batter is smooth.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly.
5. Sprinkle the shredded coconut over the top of the cake.
6. Optional: Sprinkle the white chocolate chips over the cake.
7. Bake the cake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.

Interesting Facts

• Macadamia nuts are native to Australia and were first introduced to the United States in 1881.
• Pineapple is a popular tropical fruit that is part of the bromeliad family.
• The pineapple is a symbol of hospitality, welcome, and friendship.