Southern Pineapple Cake

Name: Southern Pineapple Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups sugar; 1 tsp. baking soda; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp. vanilla extract; 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

Isabella

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Transport yourself to a slice of paradise with the irresistible Southern Pineapple Cake. This delectable dessert boasts a harmonious blend of tropical pineapple, crunchy pecans, and luscious coconut frosting, promising a culinary journey that tantalizes the taste buds. Whether you’re indulging in a casual afternoon treat or celebrating a special occasion, this cake is sure to become a cherished favorite. Let’s embark on a delightful baking adventure and discover the magic of Southern hospitality in every bite.

Ingredients:

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

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease or spray a 13 x 9-inch baking dish, ensuring your cake releases effortlessly after baking.
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, eggs, vanilla extract, and crushed pineapple with its juice. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated, forming a smooth batter.

Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cake turns a delightful golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the cake bakes, prepare the tantalizing topping. In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the butter, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and sugar. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
Once the mixture reaches a boil, add the chopped pecans or walnuts and coconut flakes. Continue cooking over medium heat for approximately 5 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens slightly and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Once the cake is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the top surface. This step ensures the topping seeps deliciously into every layer of the cake.
Carefully spread the prepared topping evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to soak in and create a heavenly flavor infusion. Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving, allowing the flavors to develop fully.

Nutritional Information:

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: 494 kcal per serving

Servings: 12 servings

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Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Southern Pineapple Cake warm or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
- Garnish each slice with a sprinkle of shredded coconut or a few extra chopped pecans for added visual appeal.
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Storage Guidelines:
- Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Be sure to allow the cake to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation.
- For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. Simply cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Alternatively, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat refrigerated cake, simply microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
- If reheating frozen cake, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as instructed above.
- For a crispy topping, consider briefly toasting slices of cake in a preheated oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple in this recipe?

While canned crushed pineapple is recommended for its convenience and consistent moisture content, you can certainly use fresh pineapple if preferred. Simply finely chop fresh pineapple to match the texture of crushed pineapple and adjust the quantity of juice accordingly. Keep in mind that fresh pineapple may result in a slightly different texture and flavor profile.

Can I substitute ingredients such as pecans or coconut in this recipe?

Yes, you can customize this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. If you’re allergic to nuts or prefer a different texture, you can omit the pecans or replace them with chopped walnuts or almonds. Similarly, if you’re not a fan of coconut, you can omit it from the topping or substitute it with additional nuts or even a sprinkle of oats for added crunch.

How can I prevent the cake from becoming too moist or soggy from the pineapple topping?

To ensure the perfect balance of moisture and texture, it’s essential to poke holes in the cake before adding the topping. These holes allow the topping to seep into the cake, infusing it with flavor without causing it to become overly soggy. Additionally, be sure to spread the topping evenly over the warm cake to ensure thorough absorption without pooling in any one area.

Can I make this cake ahead of time for special occasions or gatherings?

Absolutely! Southern Pineapple Cake is a great make-ahead dessert that actually improves in flavor as it sits. You can bake the cake a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator, depending on your preference. Simply add the topping before serving to ensure it retains its freshness and irresistible flavor. If freezing the cake, be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion:

With its irresistible combination of tropical flavors and comforting sweetness, Southern Pineapple Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a taste of pure indulgence. Whether shared with loved ones or savored as a solo treat, each slice promises to evoke visions of sunny beaches and gentle ocean breezes. Embrace the joy of homemade baking and elevate your dessert game with this Southern classic. So go ahead, take a bite, and let the flavors whisk you away to paradise.