Southern Charm on a Plate: Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake

Sunshine in every bite? You got it! This Southern Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake is a taste of pure comfort, bursting with juicy pineapple, fluffy cake, and a decadent cream cheese frosting. The toasted pecans add a delightful crunch, making this dessert an absolute showstopper.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cake:
  • 1 package white cake mix (your favorite brand works!)
  • 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained
  • 1 cup sugar
• Cream Cheese Frosting:
  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Topping:
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted

Let’s Bake!

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with a good greasing.
2. Whip Up the Cake Batter: Follow the instructions on the cake mix package to prepare the batter. Once ready, pour it evenly into your greased baking dish. Bake for the recommended time according to the package instructions.
3. Pineapple Glaze Time: While your cake bakes, create a delicious pineapple glaze. Combine the crushed pineapple and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Take the pot off the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
4. Poke & Pour: Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly in the pan. Take a fork and gently poke holes all over the top of the warm cake. This allows the pineapple glaze to soak in and create extra moistness.
5. Pineapple Power: Evenly pour the cooled pineapple mixture over the warm cake, ensuring it covers the entire surface. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
6. Creamy Dreamland: In a large mixing bowl, whip together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, while beating until you have a light and fluffy frosting. Don’t forget to stir in the vanilla extract for that extra flavor boost.
7. Frosting Magic! Spread the luscious cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Now comes the fun part – sprinkle the toasted pecans on top for a beautiful and crunchy finish!
8. Chill Out: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the frosting to set and the flavors to meld together perfectly.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time:** 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes Servings: 12 | Calories per Serving: Approximately 400 kcal

Tips:

• To toast your pecans, spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden brown. Watch them closely to avoid burning!
• For a richer flavor, substitute brown sugar for half of the white sugar in the pineapple glaze.
• Don’t have a cake mix? No problem! Use your favorite homemade cake recipe instead. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.

This Southern-style pineapple pecan cake is sure to become a new favorite. It’s perfect for potlucks, afternoon tea parties, or simply enjoying a slice with a cup of coffee. So ditch the store-bought desserts and bake up a batch of sunshine today!