Southern Pineapple Cake

by

Introduction:

Transport yourself to a sun-drenched paradise with our Southern Pineapple Cake topped with decadent Coconut-Pecan Frosting. This beloved dessert captures the essence of Southern hospitality with its moist, pineapple-infused cake layers and rich, nutty topping. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a taste of the South, this delightful cake is sure to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia.

Tools Needed and Cooking Details:

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey with just a few essential tools and ingredients. You’ll need a 13 x 9-inch baking dish, mixing bowls, a saucepan, and basic kitchen utensils such as a whisk and spatula. This recipe serves 12, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family.

With a quick prep time of only 10 minutes and a baking time of 45 minutes, you can have this delectable cake ready to serve in just under an hour. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get ready to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cake.

Ingredients:

Let’s dive into the delightful array of ingredients that bring this Southern Pineapple Cake to life:

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 tsp. baking soda
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 1 – 20 oz can crushed pineapple (with juice)

For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 2/3 cup evaporated milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1 cup coconut flakes

Steps:

Now, let’s embark on the journey of creating this indulgent Pineapple Cake step by step:

1. Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or spray a 13 x 9-inch baking dish, ensuring that it’s ready to receive your delicious cake batter.

2. Mix & Bake: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, eggs, vanilla extract, and crushed pineapple (including its juice) until well combined. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

3. Create the Topping: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and sugar, stirring until the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, add the chopped pecans or walnuts and coconut flakes, continuing to stir for approximately 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

4. Finish with Flair: Use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the surface of the baked cake. Pour the warm topping evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes and infuse every bite with rich, nutty flavor.

5. Let It Cool: Allow the cake to cool before slicing and serving, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Recommendations for Recipe Success:

To ensure that your Southern Pineapple Cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:

  • Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible to elevate the flavor and texture of your cake.
  • Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix the cake batter until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can result in a dense and tough cake.
  • Monitor Baking Time Carefully: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes, as oven temperatures may vary. The cake is done when it’s golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Allow Sufficient Cooling Time: Let the cake cool completely before adding the topping to prevent it from melting and becoming too runny.
  • Toast the Coconut and Nuts: For added depth of flavor, toast the coconut flakes and nuts before adding them to the topping mixture, enhancing their nuttiness and aroma.

Top 5 Mistakes People Usually Make and How to Avoid Them:

  1. Overmixing the Batter: Avoid overmixing the cake batter, as this can lead to a tough and dense texture. Mix until just combined for a tender and moist cake.
  2. Underbaking the Cake: Ensure that the cake is fully baked by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Underbaking can result in a soggy and dense cake.
  3. Pouring the Topping on a Hot Cake: Allow the cake to cool slightly before adding the topping to prevent it from melting and running off the cake. This ensures that the topping sets properly and adheres to the cake.
  4. Not Draining Excess Juice from Pineapple: Be sure to drain any excess juice from the crushed pineapple before adding it to the cake batter. Excess moisture can affect the texture of the cake and prevent it from baking evenly.
  5. Skipping the Toasting Step for Coconut and Nuts: Toasting the coconut flakes and nuts before adding them to the topping enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Don’t skip this step for maximum flavor impact.

FAQ for 5 Questions about This Recipe:

  1. Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned? While canned crushed pineapple is preferred for its convenience and consistent texture, you can use fresh pineapple if desired. Simply finely chop fresh pineapple and use it in place of the canned variety.
  2. Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time? Yes, you can bake the cake ahead of time and store it at room temperature for up to two days. Add the topping just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
  3. Can I Omit the Nuts from the Topping? If you have a nut allergy or simply prefer to omit nuts from the topping, you can do so without compromising the overall flavor of the cake. Simply omit the nuts and proceed with the recipe as directed.
  4. Can I Freeze Leftover Cake? Yes, you can freeze leftover cake for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
  5. Can I Substitute the Evaporated Milk? If you don’t have evaporated milk on hand, you can substitute an equal amount of whole milk or half-and-half in the topping. However, keep in mind that evaporated milk adds richness and creaminess to the topping.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, our Southern Pineapple Cake with Coconut-Pecan Frosting is a true celebration of Southern hospitality and flavor. With its moist pineapple-infused layers and rich, nutty topping, this cake is sure to become a favorite at any gathering or special occasion. By following our detailed recipe and helpful tips, you can create a slice of Southern paradise right in your own kitchen. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the sweet taste of the South. Happy baking!