Pineapple Pecan Cake

If you’re looking for a simple yet mouthwatering dessert, this Pineapple Pecan Cake is a must-try. Bursting with tropical pineapple flavor and the delightful crunch of toasted pecans, this cake is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving a sweet treat, this recipe will be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

To make this delightful cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups of flour
• 2 cups of sugar
• 2 teaspoons of baking soda
• 2 eggs
• 1 20-ounce can of crushed pineapple (with juice)
• 1 cup of chopped toasted pecans (optional)

For the frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 stick of butter, softened
• 2 cups of powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon of vanilla

Directions

1. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, crushed pineapple (with juice), and chopped toasted pecans. Toasting the pecans beforehand enhances their flavor.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and baking soda until well combined.
3. Create the Batter: Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Mix gently to ensure everything is combined without overmixing.
4. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
5. Prepare the Frosting: Beat the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla with an electric mixer until smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add a small amount of milk to achieve the desired consistency.
6. Frost and Serve: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Cut into pieces of your preferred size and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips

• Best Served Chilled: For the ultimate flavor and texture, refrigerate the frosted cake for about an hour before serving. The frosting sets beautifully, and the flavors meld together perfectly.
• Optional Garnish: For a decorative touch, sprinkle extra chopped pecans or a dusting of powdered sugar on top before serving.
• Pairing Ideas: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cream cheese frosting stays fresh and flavorful when kept cool.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual slices or the entire cake (without frosting) tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and frost just before serving.
• Avoid Moisture Loss: If refrigerating a partially eaten cake, cover the cut edges with plastic wrap or wax paper to prevent the cake from drying out.

By following these tips, your Pineapple Pecan Cake will stay fresh and delicious, ready to be enjoyed any time you crave it!

Variations

This Pineapple Pecan Cake recipe is highly versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some creative variations you can try:

1. Add Coconut
For a tropical twist, add 1 cup of shredded coconut to the batter. The coconut complements the pineapple and adds extra texture and flavor.

2. Use Walnuts Instead of Pecans
If you’re not a fan of pecans, feel free to swap them for walnuts. They provide a slightly different flavor but still add a nice crunch to the cake.

3. Make it Vegan
To make a vegan version of this cake, use plant-based substitutes:

• Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg).
• Use dairy-free butter and vegan cream cheese for the frosting.

4. Spice it Up
Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the batter to give the cake a warm, spiced flavor. This variation works well if you want a cozy, fall-inspired dessert.

5. Add a Layer of Fruit
For extra fruitiness, add chopped bananas, peaches, or mangoes to the cake batter. These fruits pair well with pineapple and enhance the tropical vibe.

6. Caramelized Pineapple Topping
For a decadent touch, caramelize some pineapple slices and use them as a topping for the cake. Simply cook pineapple chunks in a pan with a bit of sugar until they turn golden brown and syrupy.

7. Gluten-Free Version
To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that your baking soda and powdered sugar are also gluten-free.

8. Pineapple Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl
Instead of spreading frosting on top, swirl the cream cheese frosting into the batter before baking. This creates a marbled effect and adds a burst of creamy flavor in every bite.

With these variations, you can easily personalize your Pineapple Pecan Cake to suit different tastes and dietary preferences!

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but be sure to finely chop it and include some of the juice. Canned crushed pineapple is convenient because it already includes the juice, which helps keep the cake moist.

2. How can I make the cake more moist?
To make the cake even more moist, ensure you’re using the juice from the canned pineapple. Additionally, you can add a tablespoon of vegetable oil to the batter to enhance moisture.

3. Can I freeze Pineapple Pecan Cake?
Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

4. Can I make this cake without nuts?
Absolutely! If you’re allergic to nuts or prefer not to include them, simply omit the pecans, and the cake will still be delicious. You can also replace them with another add-in, like chocolate chips, if you wish.

5. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator after it cools, and frost it the day you’re ready to serve. The flavors will develop even more overnight!

6. How do I make sure the cake is cooked through?
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is ready. If there’s batter on the toothpick, continue baking for a few more minutes.

7. Can I use a different type of frosting?
Yes, you can switch up the frosting! While cream cheese frosting is classic, you can use buttercream frosting, whipped cream, or even a glaze made with powdered sugar and milk for a lighter topping.

8. Can I make the cake in a different pan size?
Yes, you can use a different pan size, but the baking time may vary. For example, if you use a round cake pan, check the cake after 25–30 minutes, as it may cook faster. Adjust the baking time as needed.

9. How should I store leftover cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also wrap individual slices and freeze them for up to 3 months.

10. Can I add other fruits to the cake?
Yes, you can add other fruits like bananas, mangoes, or peaches for a more tropical flavor. Just make sure the total amount of fruit doesn’t overpower the batter, or it may affect the texture.

These FAQs should help you with any questions or adjustments you might need to make while preparing Pineapple Pecan Cake!

Pineapple Pecan Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the sweetness of pineapple and the crunch of pecans in a moist and flavorful cake. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as an afternoon treat, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and watch it become a family favorite!

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