Introduction
Southern Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake is a beloved dessert that brings together sweet crushed pineapple, crunchy pecans, and a luscious creamy frosting. Incredibly moist and bursting with tropical-meets-Southern flavor, this cake is a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday tables.
Origin
This cake has roots in Southern home baking, where crushed pineapple became popular in mid-20th-century desserts. Combined with pecans—an iconic Southern ingredient—and simple pantry staples, the cake became a go-to recipe for easy, crowd-pleasing desserts.
Cultural Significance
Often found at church socials, reunions, and Sunday dinners, this cake represents Southern hospitality at its finest. It’s a dessert meant to be shared, enjoyed generously, and remembered fondly long after the last slice is gone.
Ingredients & Quantity
Cake
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 can (20 oz / 565 g) crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 cup (120 g) chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Creamy Frosting
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3½ cups (420 g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Additions
- Toast pecans for extra flavor
- Add shredded coconut
- Use brown sugar for deeper sweetness
- Garnish with pineapple chunks or extra nuts
Tips for Success
- Do not drain pineapple—juice keeps cake moist
- Toast pecans lightly for richer flavor
- Cool cake completely before frosting
- Chill briefly before slicing for clean cuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, pineapple with juice, vanilla, and pecans. Stir until combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake 35–40 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely in the pan.
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla; beat until fluffy.
- Spread frosting evenly over cooled cake.
Description
This cake is incredibly moist with bursts of sweet pineapple and nutty crunch from pecans. The creamy frosting adds richness that perfectly balances the bright fruit flavor, making every bite soft, sweet, and satisfying.
Nutritional Information
(Approximate per serving, 16 servings)
- Calories: 380–420 kcal
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Sugar: 34 g
Conclusion
Southern Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake is a timeless dessert that proves simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor. It’s easy, comforting, and always welcomed at the table.
Recommendation
Serve chilled or at room temperature with coffee or sweet tea. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, holidays, or anytime you want a taste of Southern tradition.
Embracing Sweet Southern Comfort
This cake is all about warmth, generosity, and joy. Share it freely, savor the flavors, and enjoy a slice of Southern hospitality 🍍🌰✨