Welcome to our delightful dessert recipes section! Today, we’re sharing a moist and flavorful recipe for Pineapple Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. This cake is bursting with the tropical flavor of pineapple and the nutty crunch of pecans, topped with a rich and creamy frosting. It’s perfect for any celebration or special occasion. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 eggs
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 stick butter, softened
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups confectioners sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and baking soda. Stir until well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, crushed pineapple with juice, and chopped pecans (if using) to the dry ingredients. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the baking dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
- Add Confectioners Sugar: Gradually add the confectioners sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Frost the Cake
- Spread Frosting: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
- Decorate: If desired, sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top of the frosting for decoration.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake and serve. Enjoy your Pineapple Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Pecans: Toast the pecans before adding them to the batter for an extra depth of flavor.
- Butter and Cream Cheese: Ensure both are softened for a smooth and creamy frosting.
- Pineapple: Do not drain the juice from the crushed pineapple; it adds moisture and flavor to the cake.
Variations
Pineapple Coconut Cake
Add 1 cup of shredded coconut to the cake batter for a tropical twist.
Carrot Pineapple Cake
Add 1 cup of grated carrots to the cake batter for a delicious carrot pineapple cake.
Banana Pineapple Cake
Mash 2 ripe bananas and add them to the batter for a fruity combination.
Lemon Pineapple Cake
Add the zest of one lemon to the cake batter and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the frosting for a zesty flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature. Frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and serving.
What can I serve with this cake?
Serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.
How can I make the cake healthier?
Use a sugar substitute suitable for baking, reduce the amount of butter, and add more fruits or vegetables (like carrots or zucchini) to make the cake healthier.
Pineapple Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist texture and rich frosting, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious cake with your loved ones!
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If you loved this Pineapple Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe, be sure to check out our other delightful and flavorful dessert recipes. Happy baking!