Pineapple Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This Pineapple Pecan Cake is a delightful and moist cake filled with the tropical flavor of pineapple and the crunch of pecans. Topped with rich and creamy cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for special occasions or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. The combination of flavors and textures will make every bite a blissful experience!

Ingredients:

For the Pineapple Pecan Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve the juice)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts)
• 1/4 cup buttermilk (or regular milk if preferred)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
2. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, beating until fully incorporated and the frosting is fluffy.
3. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, and continue beating until smooth and spreadable.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer of the cake on a serving platter or cake stand.
2. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top of the first layer.
3. Place the second cake layer on top, pressing gently to secure it.
4. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
5. Garnish with extra chopped pecans on top for decoration, if desired.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice the cake into pieces and serve. It’s best enjoyed after being refrigerated for about an hour, allowing the flavors to meld.
2. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Tips and Variations:

1. Add Extra Pineapple Flavor: For an extra burst of pineapple flavor, you can mix a small amount of pineapple juice into the frosting or add a few pieces of crushed pineapple to the batter.
2. Make It in a Sheet Pan: If you prefer a sheet cake, you can use a 9×13-inch baking pan. The baking time may need to be adjusted slightly, so check with a toothpick.
3. Make It Lighter: If you’d like a lighter version, you can reduce the butter and sugar, or substitute some of the butter with applesauce for added moisture.
4. Add Coconut: For a tropical twist, consider adding shredded coconut to the cake batter along with the pineapple and pecans.

Why You’ll Love This Cake:

• Moist and Flavorful: The crushed pineapple keeps the cake moist, while the pecans add a delightful crunch.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: The rich and tangy cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with the sweet cake, making it irresistible.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: This cake is perfect for birthdays, potlucks, holidays, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with something delicious.

This Pineapple Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a flavorful, moist cake that combines the tropical taste of pineapple with the nuttiness of pecans, all topped with a creamy frosting. It’s a must-try for cake lovers and anyone who enjoys a bit of tropical flair in their desserts!