Indulge in a slice of this delightful Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake, a perfect dessert that combines the sweet tang of pineapple with the rich flavor of pecans. Topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cake, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture, balancing the tartness of the pineapple.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cake rise and become fluffy.
- 2 large eggs: Provides richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cake with a subtle warmth.
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, undrained: Adds a natural sweetness and moisture to the cake, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: Adds a nutty crunch that complements the sweetness of the pineapple.
- 1 cup shredded coconut (optional): Adds texture and a tropical flavor that pairs perfectly with the pineapple and pecans.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: The base of the frosting, providing a tangy, creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, spreadable frosting.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting while maintaining a smooth consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a hint of vanilla flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the frosting.
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of baking soda until well combined.
- Add the 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dry ingredients.
- Stir in the can of crushed pineapple (including the juice), mixing until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Fold in the 1 cup of chopped pecans and 1 cup of shredded coconut (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
3. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the 4 cups of powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and continue beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
5. Frost the Cake:
- Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.
- Sprinkle additional chopped pecans over the frosting for garnish, if desired.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the cake into squares or rectangles and serve. This cake is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips for Success:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature before starting. This ensures that the ingredients mix together more smoothly, resulting in a better-textured cake and frosting.
- Don’t Drain the Pineapple: The juice from the crushed pineapple is essential for keeping the cake moist, so make sure to include it when mixing the batter.
- Cooling Before Frosting: Ensure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting and becoming too runny.
Why You’ll Love This Cake:
- Moist and Flavorful: The combination of crushed pineapple and pecans creates a cake that is incredibly moist with a delightful contrast of textures.
- Easy to Make: This cake requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, potluck, or holiday event, this cake is sure to impress your guests with its sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors.
This Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake is a delicious and decadent dessert that is sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of sweet pineapple, crunchy pecans, and rich cream cheese frosting makes for an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is simple to follow and guaranteed to deliver impressive results. Enjoy each bite of this delightful cake, and be prepared for it to disappear quickly whenever you serve it!
