Southern Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake – Easy & Delicious
Introduction
Imagine a sunny afternoon where the sweet scent of baking fills the air, drawing your loved ones into the kitchen like bees to a blooming flower. You glance at the oven, and there it is—a golden delight, the Southern Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake – Easy & Delicious, just waiting to be sliced. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a hug in the form of a slice. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this indulgent dessert brings a sense of comfort and joy that lingers long after the last crumb is gone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something uniquely comforting about this Southern Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake. With its moist texture and rich flavor, it quickly becomes a family favorite. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this cake:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet pineapple and crunchy pecans creates a delightful balance that excites your taste buds.
- A Family Tradition: This cake has a way of bringing everyone together, making it perfect for celebrations or quiet family dinners.
- Quick and Easy: No need for fancy baking skills. This easy recipe comes together in a snap, making it accessible for everyone—from beginners to seasoned bakers.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit dietary needs or personal preferences.
- Comforting and Satisfying: This is the kind of dessert that feels like home, warm and inviting, perfect for sharing with those you love.
Ingredients
For this Southern Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake, you will need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base that holds everything together.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the deal.
- 1 tsp baking soda – Helps the cake rise beautifully.
- ½ tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained – Adds moisture and sweetness.
- 1 cup chopped pecans – Introduces a delightful crunch.
- 1 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- 4 large eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – A touch of warmth and depth.
Substitutions: You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, or swap pecans for walnuts if you prefer.
Timing
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 35-40 minutes
- Total time: 55-65 minutes
You’ll have this delightful cake ready faster than it takes to make a takeout order, making it a perfect indulgent dessert for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The anticipation begins!
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until fully mixed.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a tender crumb!
- Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point!
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Variations
- Frosting: While this cake is delightful on its own, you can add a simple cream cheese frosting or a drizzle of glaze for an extra layer of indulgence.
- Festive Twist: Add shredded coconut for a tropical flair, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm touch.
- Healthy Alternatives: Use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil and swap sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Serving Suggestions
Picture this: a warm slice of your Southern Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake served with a heaping scoop of vanilla ice cream, melting into the warm cake, or paired with a hot cup of coffee on a rainy afternoon. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply as a special treat to enjoy with loved ones.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This cake stores beautifully! Keep it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it to prolong freshness. You can also freeze slices for up to 2 months—great for when a sweet craving strikes. Just thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave.
Pro Tips from the Kitchen
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For best results, ensure your eggs and oil are at room temperature before mixing.
- Pecan Toasting: Toast your pecans in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding for an enhanced flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Folds gently to keep your cake light and fluffy.
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour for a gluten-free indulgent dessert.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? Absolutely! Fresh pineapple will give you a great flavor boost—just make sure to finely chop and drain it well.
How do I make the cake more moist? This cake is already moist, but you can add a little more pineapple juice or oil if you prefer an even denser texture.
Can I make this cake ahead of time for a party? Yes! This cake can be baked a day in advance. Just wrap it up well and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
As you gather around the table with family and friends, let the Southern Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake be the centerpiece of your celebration. This cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a way to express love, share memories, and create new traditions. So go ahead, whip up this easy and delicious recipe, and watch as it brings smiles and warmth to your loved ones’ faces. We can’t wait to hear how it becomes a cherished part of your family gatherings!

Southern Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until fully mixed.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, then pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

