Savor the tropical flavors of this Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake! Moist, fruity, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and crunchy pecans. Perfect for any occasion.

Introduction

There’s something uniquely refreshing about combining the sweetness of pineapple with the nutty crunch of pecans in a cake. This Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together tropical flavors with a touch of Southern charm. The cake itself is incredibly moist, thanks to the crushed pineapple mixed into the batter, which also gives it a lovely fruity flavor that’s balanced by the rich, buttery pecans. The crowning glory of this cake is its creamy frosting, made with tangy cream cheese that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just treating yourself to something sweet, this cake is sure to impress. Let’s explore how to create this tropical delight that’s bursting with flavor and texture in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple with juice
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for topping)

Directions

For the Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well blended.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, vanilla extract, crushed pineapple (with juice), and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Stir until the batter is smooth and well combined.
4. Incorporate the Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Prepare the Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
3. Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
4. Top with Pecans: Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the frosting for a deliciously crunchy finish.
5. Serve: Slice the cake and enjoy the perfect blend of creamy, fruity, and nutty flavors.

How to Prepare

This Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake starts with a simple, moist cake batter made by combining flour, sugar, and leavening agents with eggs, vanilla, and crushed pineapple. The natural juices from the pineapple keep the cake incredibly moist, while melted butter adds richness. Once the batter is mixed and the pecans are folded in, the cake is baked until golden and fragrant. After cooling, the cake is topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that adds a layer of tangy sweetness. A final sprinkle of chopped pecans gives the cake a delightful crunch, making each bite a mix of soft, creamy, and crunchy textures.

Preparation Time

• Active Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour (including baking and cooling)

Servings

This recipe yields 12-16 servings, depending on portion size.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but ensure it’s finely crushed and includes its juices for moisture.

Q2: Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.

Q3: Can I substitute walnuts for pecans? Absolutely! Walnuts can be used in place of pecans if you prefer or if that’s what you have on hand.

Q4: How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Q5: Can I add coconut to the frosting? Yes, adding shredded coconut to the frosting or as a topping can enhance the tropical flavor.

Conclusion

The Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the best of tropical and nutty flavors in a beautifully moist and creamy creation. The combination of sweet pineapple, rich pecans, and tangy cream cheese frosting makes this cake a true crowd-pleaser. Whether served at a summer gathering, a family dinner, or as a special treat for yourself, this cake is sure to be a hit. Its easy preparation and delicious results make it a recipe worth keeping on hand for any occasion. Enjoy the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in every bite of this delightful cake!