Southern Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake

by

Sure! Here’s a big, detailed recipe for Southern Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake, complete with history, formation, ingredients, instructions, methods, lovers (people who adore this cake), and a heartfelt conclusion.

🍍 Southern Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake

A Lush, Moist Cake Straight from the Heart of Dixie

🧁 Introduction

The Southern Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake is a beloved staple of Southern dessert tables, especially during holidays, family gatherings, and potlucks. Sweet, tropical pineapple meets the rich crunch of Southern pecans in a moist, dense cake topped with a creamy, dreamy frosting. Its old-fashioned charm, simplicity, and incredible flavor have earned it a permanent place in Southern culinary hearts.

📜 History & Formation

This cake has roots in mid-20th century Southern kitchens, where canned pineapple became a pantry staple. Southern home bakers, known for making magic with simple ingredients, began incorporating pineapple into everything from salads to upside-down cakes. Adding pecans—a native Southern nut—was a natural evolution, bringing earthy crunch to the cake’s lush, tropical sweetness. Over time, this dessert became a regional treasure passed down through generations.

🍽️ Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1½ cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (with juice, undrained)
  • 1 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for garnish)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2–3 tbsp milk or heavy cream (as needed for consistency)
  • Pinch of salt

🧑‍🍳 Instructions & Methods

🔹 Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.

🔹 Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
  2. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs and mix in the vanilla extract.
  3. Pour the egg mixture and the entire can of crushed pineapple with juice into the dry ingredients.
  4. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Fold in the chopped pecans.

🔹 Step 3: Bake the Cake

  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
  • Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

🔹 Step 4: Make the Frosting

  1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Add the vanilla, a pinch of salt, and gradually beat in the powdered sugar.
  3. Add milk or cream one tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.

🔹 Step 5: Frost the Cake

  • Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
  • Sprinkle with additional chopped pecans for that perfect Southern touch.

❤️ The Lovers of This Cake

This cake is adored by:

  • Southern grandmas who’ve been making it since the ’60s.
  • Dessert lovers who crave moist, fruit-filled cakes with creamy frosting.
  • Pecan fanatics who appreciate a nutty crunch.
  • Brides and grooms in the South choosing this as a rustic wedding cake.
  • Potluck heroes who bring this and leave with an empty dish every time.

💭 Conclusion

The Southern Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake is more than just dessert—it’s a sweet memory, a hug in cake form, and a testament to Southern hospitality. Its combination of fruity sweetness, soft crumb, and creamy richness makes it a cake that lingers on the tongue—and in the heart.

Whether you’re sharing it on your front porch with sweet tea or serving it after a hearty Sunday dinner, this cake will win over hearts, one slice at a time.

Would you like a printable version or a short version for social media (e.g., Instagram or Pinterest post)?

Leave a Comment