Description
Welcome to a delicious Southern treat you won’t be able to resist! Today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of Southern Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake—a dessert that brings the sweetness of pineapple and the rich crunch of pecans into perfect harmony. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, craving a Southern classic, or just want to impress friends and family, this easy-to-make cake will steal the show. Grab your apron, and let’s create something special with this Southern Pineapple Pecan Cake!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 package white cake mix
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Optional Ingredient Substitutions:
- Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free white cake mix.
- Dairy-free option: Substitute vegan cream cheese and butter.
- Nut-free option: Skip the pecans or replace them with toasted coconut flakes for texture.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Mix
- In a large mixing bowl, prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions. Add water, oil, and eggs as directed.
- Pour the batter into your greased baking dish and place it in the preheated oven.
Step 3: Pineapple Mixture
- While your cake is baking, combine the crushed pineapple and sugar in a medium saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes to create a sweet pineapple syrup. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Poke and Pour
- Once your cake is baked and slightly cooled, poke holes all over the surface using a fork or wooden skewer. This helps the pineapple syrup soak into the cake.
- Evenly pour the pineapple syrup over the cake, ensuring it covers every inch. Allow the cake to cool completely.
Step 5: Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
Step 6: Toasted Pecans
- Sprinkle the toasted pecans generously on top of the frosted cake, giving it a rich, nutty crunch.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures the cake batter and frosting come together smoothly.
- Toast your pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds a beautiful crunch to the cake. Simply spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
- Don’t rush the cooling process: Allowing the cake to cool fully after pouring the pineapple syrup ensures the frosting doesn’t melt and the flavors intensify.
- Make it ahead: This cake actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight, so feel free to prepare it in advance.