Southern Pineapple Cake

There’s something truly special about the Southern Pineapple Cake—it’s the kind of dessert that brings warmth to any gathering with its delightful blend of flavors. This cake is a beautiful symphony of moist pineapple, crunchy pecans, and coconut, all topped with a luscious frosting. It’s not only easy to make but also a joy to share with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Southern Pineapple Cake for its simplicity and taste. The combination of pineapple, pecans, and coconut offers a rich, tropical flavor while keeping the cake incredibly moist. Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion—whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive celebration.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• 13 x 9-inch baking dish
• Medium-sized saucepan
• Wooden chopstick or large serving fork
• Baking spray or grease

Ingredients

For the Cake:

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

For the Topping:

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

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
2. Grease or spray a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with baking spray. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking soda, eggs, vanilla, and crushed pineapple (with juice). Beat until well combined.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. While the cake is baking, heat the butter, evaporated milk, vanilla, and sugar in a medium-sized saucepan over medium-high heat until it begins to boil.
5. Stir in the pecans or walnuts and coconut, and continue cooking on medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly. The mixture will thicken slightly.
6. Remove the baked cake from the oven and poke holes all over the top using a wooden chopstick or the tines of a large serving fork.
7. Spread the topping evenly over the warm cake and let it cool.
8. Slice and serve!

Tips for Success

Make sure to use the pineapple with its juice for maximum moisture. Stir the topping constantly to prevent it from burning and ensure an even consistency. If the topping thickens too much, add a splash more evaporated milk.

Additional Tips and Variations

Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for a hint of spice. You can also swap pecans for walnuts if you prefer a different nutty flavor. For a lighter version, you might reduce the sugar in the topping.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This cake is a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation. It contains approximately 350 calories per serving, with notable amounts of sugar and healthy fats from the nuts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? Yes, but make sure to include the juice to keep the cake moist.
• How should I store this cake? Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Can I freeze the cake? Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to two months.

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited to try this Southern Pineapple Cake as I am to share it with you! It’s a delightful dessert that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. If you give it a whirl, don’t forget to share your experience and any personal twists you might have added. Enjoy!