If you have a sweet tooth and a soft spot for classic Southern desserts, then this Southern Pineapple Cake Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine a moist, tender cake bursting with the tangy sweetness of crushed pineapple and topped with a lusciously smooth cream cheese frosting — it’s the perfect balance of fruity freshness and rich indulgence. This cake is a time-tested favorite for family gatherings and will surely bring a slice of Southern charm to your table that everyone will love. Plus, it’s wonderfully straightforward to make, so you can enjoy baking and sharing this delightful treat with ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh and pantry-staple ingredients for this Southern Pineapple Cake Recipe is a breeze. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s creating the moist texture, adding the perfect sweetness, or giving the frosting its signature richness.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the cake’s structure and soft crumb.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake evenly and helps with browning.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the batter while adding moisture and richness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Gives the cake a light rise and tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm, fragrant note.
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple with juice: Delivers vibrant moisture and tropical sweetness without needing extra liquid.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances all the sweet flavors perfectly.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Creates a creamy, tangy base for the frosting.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and smooth texture to the frosting.
- 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for a perfect spread.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for frosting: Adds depth and a lovely aroma to the topping.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional): Introduces a crunchy, nutty touch that’s classic in Southern desserts.
How to Make Southern Pineapple Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F, which ensures an even bake, and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. This size is perfect for the cake to have the ideal thickness and bake uniformly without drying out.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. This step evenly distributes the leavening and seasoning, laying the foundation for the cake’s fluffy texture and balanced taste.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add your eggs, vanilla extract, and the entire can of crushed pineapple with its juice into the dry mixture. Stir carefully until the batter is smooth and uniformly combined. The pineapple juice is the secret to that wonderfully moist crumb you’re after.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula for even cooking. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean. This ensures the cake is baked through while staying tender.
Step 5: Cool Completely
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting. Cooling fully prevents the frosting from melting and keeps it looking beautiful and fresh.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is creamy and smooth — this frosting is the perfect match for our Southern Pineapple Cake Recipe’s tropical notes.
Step 7: Frost and Garnish
Spread the frosting generously over your cooled cake. If you love a bit of crunch, sprinkle the chopped pecans on top. Refrigerate for about 20 minutes to let the frosting set, which makes slicing easier and neater.
How to Serve Southern Pineapple Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A classic sprinkle of toasted chopped pecans brings an irresistible crunch and nutty flavor that beautifully complements the soft, moist cake. If pecans aren’t your thing, fresh pineapple slices or a light dusting of powdered sugar also work wonderfully as garnishes.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs delightfully with a simple cup of sweet tea or freshly brewed coffee, making the ultimate Southern refreshment. For an indulgent touch, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, you can cut the cake into bite-sized squares and serve on decorative toothpicks at a party. Alternatively, layer the cake with some pineapple chunks and frosting in a trifle dish for an eye-catching dessert that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once frosted, store your Southern Pineapple Cake Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and moist for up to 4 days, and the flavors often deepen overnight.
Freezing
You can freeze the unfrosted cake layer wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then frost just before serving for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
If you prefer your cake slightly warmed, slice and heat individual pieces in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Avoid reheating the whole cake to preserve the frosting’s texture and prevent melting.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Fresh pineapple can be used, but canned crushed pineapple with juice adds consistent moisture and sweetness that’s hard to replicate. If using fresh, be sure to finely crush it and include some juice or a little extra liquid for moisture.
Is this cake gluten-free?
Traditional recipes use all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make a gluten-free version, substitute a high-quality gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary slightly in texture.
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Substituting dairy ingredients like cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives can be done, but the frosting’s flavor and texture will change. Choose those alternatives carefully to maintain a creamy consistency.
What’s the best way to get clean slices when serving?
Refrigerate the cake for at least 20 minutes after frosting to firm it up. Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each slice for neat, clean cuts.
Can this cake be made into cupcakes?
Absolutely! The batter adapts well to cupcakes; just adjust baking time to about 18-22 minutes. Frost once cooled, and enjoy individual Southern Pineapple Cake treats.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Southern Pineapple Cake Recipe brings a little sunshine and plenty of deliciousness to any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a family dinner, a potluck, or just because, it’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug with every bite. So grab your mixing bowl, get that oven warm, and prepare to fall in love with this Southern classic.
Print
Southern Pineapple Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Southern Pineapple Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert featuring crushed pineapple baked into a tender cake and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. A classic Southern staple, it combines the sweetness of pineapple with a smooth, tangy frosting and optional crunchy pecans for a deliciously nostalgic treat.
Ingredients
Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple with juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and crushed pineapple along with its juice to the dry ingredients. Stir until you achieve an even batter.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the prepared batter into the greased pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Make the Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is creamy and well combined.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top if desired.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the frosted cake for about 20 minutes before slicing to achieve cleaner cuts. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Do not drain the pineapple; its juice is essential for keeping the cake moist and flavorful.
- The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
- Toasted pecans add a rich, Southern touch and a pleasant crunch to the cake.
