Here’s a recipe for Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake, a moist and flavorful cake with the tropical taste of pineapple and the crunch of pecans, topped with a creamy frosting. This cake is perfect for any occasion and sure to delight everyone who tries it!
Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Creamy Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp heavy cream (to adjust consistency)
- ½ cup chopped pecans (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the drained crushed pineapple, vanilla extract, and sour cream until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped pecans.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 30-35 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 wire racks to cool completely.
2. Make the Creamy Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add heavy cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
3. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer on a serving plate.
- Spread a generous layer of frosting on top of the first cake layer.
- Place the second layer of cake on top and frost the entire cake with the cream cheese frosting.
- Garnish the top of the cake with chopped pecans for extra texture and flavor.
Tips for Success:
- Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid making the cake too soggy. You can even press it with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
- You can use toasted pecans for an added depth of flavor. Simply toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.
- The cake can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Just let it come to room temperature before serving.
This Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake is a delightful combination of tropical sweetness and creamy richness, with the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!