Take a trip down memory lane with this moist and flavorful Southern Pineapple Cake. This classic dessert features a tender pineapple-infused cake topped with a rich cream cheese frosting and crunchy pecans. It’s the perfect treat for family gatherings, holidays, or any special occasion!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
- 2 cups granulated sugar 🧂
- 1 tsp baking soda 🥄
- ½ tsp salt 🧂
- 2 large eggs 🥚🥚
- 1 tsp vanilla extract 🌼
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice 🍍
For the Frosting:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened 🍰
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
- 4 cups powdered sugar 🍚
- 1 tsp vanilla extract 🌼
- 1 cup chopped pecans 🌰
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Baking Pan and Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 🔥
- Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking. 📏
2️⃣ Combine the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed. 🌾🧂
3️⃣ Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and the entire can of crushed pineapple with juice to the dry mixture.
- Stir until the batter is smooth and well combined. 🥚🌼🍍
4️⃣ Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. ⏳
5️⃣ Prepare the Frosting:
- While the cake bakes, beat the cream cheese and butter together in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. 🍰🧈
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is fluffy and well combined. 🍚🌼
- Fold in the chopped pecans for added texture and flavor. 🌰
6️⃣ Cool and Frost the Cake:
- Once the cake is done, let it cool completely in the pan. 🌬️
- Spread the prepared cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
7️⃣ Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the cake into squares, serve, and savor the sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors! 🍰🍍
Tips and Notes for the Perfect Pineapple Cake
- Use Fresh Pecans: Freshly chopped pecans enhance the flavor and add a delightful crunch to the frosting.
- Don’t Skip the Juice: The pineapple juice from the can keeps the cake moist and flavorful. Avoid draining it!
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened for a silky-smooth frosting.
- Storage: Cover and store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
FAQs About Southern Pineapple Cake
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it the next day. Store it in the fridge to keep it fresh.
Q: Can I substitute canned pineapple with fresh pineapple?
You can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to finely crush it and retain the juice for moisture.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before frosting.
Q: Can I use a bundt pan instead of a 9×13 pan?
Certainly! Just adjust the baking time to about 40-45 minutes, and keep an eye on it.
Conclusion
This Southern Pineapple Cake is a nostalgic dessert that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. With its moist pineapple cake, luscious cream cheese frosting, and crunchy pecans, it’s a surefire hit for any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to love, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Share your baking adventures in the comments below, and let us know how this delightful cake turned out for you. Happy baking! 🎉🍍🍰