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Southern Pineapple Cake

Southern Pineapple Cake
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Southern Pineapple Cake is a moist, tender, and buttery dessert that combines the bright tang of crushed pineapple with a balanced sweetness and a delicate crumb. Perfect for any occasion, this Southern classic is easy to make, customizable for dietary preferences, and delivers a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treat that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (or plant-based butter for vegan/dairy-free option)
  • 4 large eggs (or 4 flax eggs for vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Add-ins

  • ½ cup chopped pecans
  • ½ cup shredded coconut
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Drain the canned crushed pineapple, reserving the juice to add moisture to the batter later.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute all leavening agents and seasonings.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color, ensuring proper aeration for a better rise.
  4. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then add the vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and homogeneous.
  5. Add Pineapple and Dry Ingredients Alternately: Stir in the crushed pineapple first. Then add the dry ingredients alternately with some reserved pineapple juice, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter. Fold in optional nuts or coconut if desired.
  6. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting or serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and even texture.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender and avoid density.
  • Drain pineapple well to prevent soggy batter but use reserved juice for moisture.
  • Check cake doneness starting at 35 minutes to avoid overbaking.
  • Allow cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting or sliding.

Nutrition

Keywords: Southern Pineapple Cake, moist pineapple cake, Southern dessert, pineapple cake recipe, gluten-free pineapple cake, vegan pineapple cake

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/southern-pineapple-cake/