Pineapple Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy how this cake brings together the natural sweetness of pineapple and the nutty flavor of pecans, creating a harmonious blend that’s both satisfying and indulgent. The cream cheese frosting adds a creamy texture that complements the moistness of the cake, making each bite a delightful experience. It’s a straightforward recipe that yields impressive results, making it a go-to for gatherings or a special treat at home.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pineapple Pecan Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking soda

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs, at room temperature

• 1½ cups granulated sugar

• 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple with juice

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ⅔ cup chopped pecans, plus more for topping

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• ½ cup (1 stick) butter, at room temperature

• 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until well combined.

4. Stir in the crushed pineapple with its juice and vanilla extract.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

6. Fold in the chopped pecans.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

8. Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.

10. While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.

11. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until the frosting is creamy and well combined.

12. Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.

13. Sprinkle additional chopped pecans over the frosting for garnish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30–40 minutes

• Total Time: 40–50 minutes

Variations

• Nut Alternatives: If I don’t have pecans on hand, I substitute with walnuts for a similar texture and flavor.

• Add-Ins: For added texture, I sometimes mix in shredded coconut or raisins into the batter.

• Spice It Up: A pinch of nutmeg or allspice can enhance the warm flavors of the cake.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To freeze, I wrap the unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, I thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight and frost it before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, I can use fresh pineapple. I make sure to crush it finely and include any juice to maintain the cake’s moisture.

What can I use if I don’t have cream cheese for the frosting?

If I don’t have cream cheese, I use a buttercream frosting as an alternative. It provides a different flavor but still complements the cake well.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often bake the cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. I frost it just before serving to ensure freshness.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

I make sure to grease the baking pan thoroughly with non-stick cooking spray or butter. For extra assurance, I sometimes line the pan with parchment paper.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the cake?

Since the frosting contains cream cheese, I recommend refrigerating the cake to maintain its freshness and prevent spoilage.

Conclusion

This Pineapple Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that combines tropical flavors with a rich, creamy topping. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or a special treat at home. I enjoy how the moist cake and creamy frosting come together to create a harmonious and satisfying dessert experience.