Pineapple Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

For a moist and flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion, try this Pineapple Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. This delightful recipe combines the sweetness of crushed pineapple with the crunch of pecans and a luscious cream cheese frosting. Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet treat, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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 Icing:

• 1 stick butter, softened
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Directions:

For the Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and baking soda.
3. Add the eggs, crushed pineapple with its juice, and chopped pecans (if using). Stir until just combined, making sure not to overmix.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.

For the Icing:

1. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
3. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.

Serving Tips

• Serve Chilled: For the best flavor and texture, chill the cake in the refrigerator for about an hour before serving. This helps the cream cheese frosting set and makes the cake easier to slice.
• Garnish: Add a decorative touch by garnishing the top of the cake with additional chopped pecans or a sprinkle of toasted coconut. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds extra flavor and texture.
• Pair with Beverages: This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk. It makes for a great accompaniment to your afternoon break or as a dessert after a meal.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the cake within a few days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep the cake fresh and prevent it from drying out.
• Refrigeration: To keep the cake fresh for up to a week, store it in the refrigerator. Ensure it is well-covered to maintain its moisture and prevent the frosting from absorbing other flavors in the fridge.
• Freezing: To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the refrigerator before serving.

Variations:

• Tropical Pineapple Coconut Cake: Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist. You can also sprinkle extra coconut on top of the cream cheese frosting for added texture and flavor.
• Spiced Pineapple Cake: Incorporate warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger into the batter for a spiced version of the cake. These spices complement the pineapple and add a cozy, aromatic touch.
• Carrot Pineapple Cake: Mix in 1 cup of grated carrots with the pineapple for a Carrot Pineapple Cake. The carrots add moisture and a subtle sweetness, making the cake even more flavorful.
• Coconut Pecan Cake: Add both shredded coconut and chopped pecans to the batter for a cake that combines two delicious textures. This variation adds a rich, nutty flavor and a bit of crunch.
• Chocolate Pineapple Cake: Stir in 1/2 cup of cocoa powder into the flour mixture to create a chocolate version of this cake. The combination of chocolate and pineapple creates a unique and indulgent dessert.
• Lemon Pineapple Cake: Add lemon zest to the batter and a tablespoon of lemon juice to the icing for a refreshing lemon twist. The citrus flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the pineapple.
• Peach Pineapple Cake: Replace the pineapple with fresh or canned peaches for a different fruit flavor. This variation offers a slightly different taste while still keeping the cake moist and delicious.
• Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Use the same batter to make a Pineapple Upside-Down Cake. Arrange pineapple slices and maraschino cherries in the bottom of a round cake pan, pour the batter over them, and bake. After cooling, invert the cake onto a serving plate.
• Gluten-Free Pineapple Cake: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make a gluten-free version of this cake. Ensure that all other ingredients, like the baking powder, are gluten-free.
• Vegan Pineapple Cake: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for a few minutes to gel) and use a plant-based milk and oil to make a vegan version of this cake.

These variations allow you to customize the Pineapple Pecan Cake to suit different tastes and dietary needs while still delivering a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert.

FAQs:

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Make sure to drain and chop it finely before adding it to the batter to avoid excess moisture.

2. How can I make this cake nut-free?
Simply omit the pecans from the recipe. The cake will still be moist and flavorful without the nuts.

3. Can I use a different type of fruit?
Yes, you can substitute the pineapple with other fruits like peaches, mangoes, or berries. Adjust the sweetness as needed based on the fruit you choose.

4. How can I make the frosting less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness of the frosting, you can use less confectioners’ sugar or add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

5. Can I make this cake in a different pan size?
Yes, you can use other pan sizes. Adjust the baking time as needed; smaller pans will require shorter baking times, while larger pans will need more time.

6. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
Grease and flour the baking pan thoroughly before pouring in the batter. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for extra assurance.

7. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

8. How can I make the cream cheese frosting thicker?
If the frosting is too thin, gradually add more confectioners’ sugar until it reaches your desired consistency. Make sure the butter and cream cheese are well-softened for best results.

9. Can I use a different type of frosting?
Yes, you can use other types of frosting, such as chocolate ganache or vanilla buttercream, if you prefer.

10. How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when it is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the toothpick has wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes.

This Pineapple Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that blends sweet pineapple, crunchy pecans, and creamy frosting into a deliciously moist cake. Perfect for any occasion, it’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Enjoy every slice of this tropical indulgence!