Pineapple-Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: A Slice of Sunshine and Joy
Is there anything more comforting than the aroma of a freshly baked cake wafting through your home? Every time I whip up this Pineapple-Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, I am transported back to my childhood—those lazy summer days spent at my grandmother’s house. The kitchen would be full of laughter, and the sweet scent of ripe pineapples and toasted pecans would mingle in the air, creating an atmosphere of happiness and love. This cake symbolizes more than just dessert; it represents family gatherings, celebrations, and moments of joy that we cherish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes this Pineapple-Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting a must-try for your next celebration—or just a cozy evening at home? Let me share a few reasons that will leave your taste buds tingling and your heart hopeful:
- Comforting Goodness: Moist and tender, each slice of cake feels like a warm hug.
- Versatile Delight: Perfect for family dinners, birthdays, or simply to brighten a rainy day.
- Quick and Easy: The recipe comes together in under an hour, offering a delightful payoff with minimal fuss.
- Bursting with Flavor: The tropical sweetness of pineapple blends beautifully with the crunchy pecans, creating a perfect harmony of taste.
- Family Favorite: This cake tends to make waves among kids and adults alike, quickly becoming a beloved tradition.
Ingredients
To create this Pineapple-Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, gather these ingredients that sing of warmth and flavor:
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides the foundation for the cake’s tender structure.
- Granulated sugar (1 ¾ cups): Sweetness is key! Feel free to adjust for your taste.
- Baking powder (1 ½ teaspoons): For that lovely rise!
- Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Helps with the leavening process.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, cozy spice that complements the cake perfectly.
- Vegetable oil (1 cup): Keeps the cake moist and luscious.
- Eggs (3 large): Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- Crushed pineapple (1 cup, drained): The star ingredient—tropical and juicy!
- Chopped pecans (1 cup): For that delightful crunch and earthy flavor.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A splash of vanilla elevates all the flavors.
Substitutions: For a healthier option, replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose. You can also swap out the pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Can you believe it? You can enjoy a slice of this delightful cake faster than you can order takeout!
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans, lining the bottom with parchment paper.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
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In another bowl, beat together the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
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Combine wet and dry ingredients; gently fold in the crushed pineapple and chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
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Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will start smelling fantastic!
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Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Prepare the cream cheese frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fluffy.
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Assemble the cake: Place one layer on a serving plate. Spread cream cheese frosting on top, then add the second layer and frost the top and sides beautifully.
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Garnish with additional chopped pecans or pineapple chunks if desired, for an extra touch of flair.
Tips and Variations
- Add Coconut: For a tropical twist, toss in ½ cup of shredded unsweetened coconut into the batter.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile even further.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Create a marbled effect by swirling half the frosting into the top layer before adding a final spread of frosting.
- Healthier Alternatives: Substitute Greek yogurt for a part of the oil for added moisture without the extra fat.
Serving Suggestions
Picture this: a slice of your Pineapple-Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting elegantly plated next to a cup of steaming chamomile tea or iced coffee. Perfect for a sunny brunch gathering, or let it shine as the centerpiece at your next holiday celebration. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that will leave everyone smiling.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover cake? No problem! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container—your Pineapple-Pecan Cake will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw and frost when you’re ready to serve for a delightful treat any time!
Pro Tips from the Kitchen
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth batter and frosting.
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Do Not Overmix: Mix until just combined for a fluffy cake texture—overmixing can lead to a dense result.
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Taste as You Go: Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the frosting to match your personal preference.
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Decoration: Decorate each slice with a sprinkle of toasted pecans or a thin slice of pineapple for a professional touch.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to finely chop the fresh pineapple and drain any excess liquid.
Q: How can I make this cake healthier?
A: Use whole wheat flour, coconut sugar, and replace some of the oil with applesauce for a lighter version.
Q: Is it possible to make this cake in advance?
A: Yes! You can bake the layers a day ahead and frost it the day you plan to serve.
Conclusion
Baking this Pineapple-Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is more than just a quick recipe; it’s about creating precious memories that linger in our hearts. Each bite is a reminder of love, laughter, and happiness shared with family and friends. So, don’t hesitate—try your hand at this delightful dessert and watch it become a cherished part of your family’s traditions. Share your version, make it your own, and relish in the heartfelt connections it brings. Life is sweeter with a slice of cake, and I can’t wait for you to experience every moment of joy it has to offer!
Pineapple-Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans, lining the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, beat together the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients; gently fold in the crushed pineapple and chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the cream cheese frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fluffy.
- Assemble the cake: Place one layer on a serving plate. Spread cream cheese frosting on top, then add the second layer and frost the top and sides beautifully.
- Garnish with additional chopped pecans or pineapple chunks if desired, for an extra touch of flair.