Introduction:
Experience a slice of Southern hospitality with our delectable Southern Pineapple Cake recipe. Bursting with tropical flavor and moist, tender crumb, this dessert is a delightful blend of sweet pineapple, creamy frosting, and just the right touch of southern charm. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a taste of sunshine, this cake is sure to steal the spotlight. Let’s dive into how to make this crowd-pleasing treat!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the crushed pineapple (with its juice) until evenly distributed throughout the batter. If desired, gently stir in the chopped pecans for added texture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract until well incorporated.
- Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy the irresistible flavors of Southern Pineapple Cake!
Conclusion:
With its moist texture, tropical sweetness, and creamy frosting, Southern Pineapple Cake is a true crowd-pleaser that embodies the essence of southern hospitality. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual get-together, this easy-to-make dessert is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So why wait? Whip up a batch today and treat yourself to a taste of southern charm!
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving Suggestions: Serve slices of Southern Pineapple Cake on their own for a delightful dessert, or pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Garnish with Fresh Fruit: For a decorative touch and an added burst of flavor, consider garnishing each slice with a few fresh pineapple chunks or a sprinkle of toasted coconut.
- Store Properly: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. The cream cheese frosting may soften at room temperature, so it’s best to keep the cake chilled if not serving immediately.
- Reheating Instructions: If desired, gently warm individual slices of cake in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to enhance the flavors and restore the cake’s moist texture.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the cake and frosting in advance, storing them separately. When ready to serve, simply frost the cake with the cream cheese frosting and enjoy!
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Southern Pineapple Cake stays fresh, flavorful, and ready to delight your taste buds whenever you crave a taste of southern sweetness.
- Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple in this recipe. Simply chop the pineapple into small pieces and use the same amount as specified for the canned pineapple. However, keep in mind that fresh pineapple may release more liquid during baking, so you might need to adjust the baking time accordingly. - Can I omit the nuts from the recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use nuts or have allergies, you can omit them from the recipe without any major adjustments. The cake will still turn out deliciously moist and flavorful. - How long will the cake stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the cake can stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to enjoy the cake within the first 2 days of baking. - Can I freeze the cake for later?
Yes, you can freeze the cake for later enjoyment. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. The cake can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. When ready to serve, allow the cake to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before bringing it to room temperature or gently reheating slices in the microwave.