This Traditional Pineapple Delight Cake is a nostalgic treat that brings a tropical twist to your dessert table. Moist, flavorful, and topped with creamy frosting, it's a surefire way to brighten any gathering.
The foundation of this cake is simple, yet each ingredient plays a key role. The flour provides structure, while the sugar sweetens the deal. Baking soda acts as the leavening agent, helping the cake rise. A pinch of salt enhances flavor complexity. Eggs bind everything together, and vanilla extract adds a lovely aromatic touch. The real star, however, is the crushed pineapple, bringing moisture and tropical flavor throughout the cake. Butter adds richness, and for those who enjoy a bit of texture, pecans and coconut offer delightful crunch and chew. The frosting is a dream with cream cheese and butter, sweetened by powdered sugar and flavored with a hint of vanilla.
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a tropical flair, serve it with fresh pineapple slices on the side. It’s also delightful with a chilled glass of sparkling water with a splash of pineapple juice.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9x13-inch baking pan. This ensures your cake will bake evenly and come out easily. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. This will be your cake's base.
Next, crack in the eggs, pour in the vanilla extract, and add the entire can of crushed pineapple with its juice. Mix it all together until everything is well combined. The batter should be thick but pourable. Stir in the melted butter, which will give the cake a rich, moist texture. If you're adding pecans and coconut, fold them in gently to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Pop it into your preheated oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the cake is baking, whip up your frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until you achieve a fluffy consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract for that extra depth of flavor.
Once your cake has cooled completely, it's time to frost it. Spread the frosting evenly over the top, making sure every corner is covered. It's ready to slice, serve, and enjoy!
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