Looking for a dessert that’s rich, moist, and bursting with flavor? This Cajun Cake is a Southern classic that will quickly become a favorite in your home. Made with crushed pineapple and topped with a luscious coconut-pecan glaze, this cake is a delightful blend of tropical and nutty flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just as a sweet treat for your family, this Cajun Cake is sure to impress with its simplicity and incredible taste.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the sugar and eggs, beating well until the mixture is light and fluffy. Stir in the undrained crushed pineapple and vanilla extract.
2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter to ensure a tender cake. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Bake the Cake:
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top of the cake should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch. Remove the cake from the oven and set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the topping.
4. Make the Coconut-Pecan Topping:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the sugar and evaporated milk, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans.
5. Add the Topping and Serve:
Once the cake has cooled slightly, pour the warm coconut-pecan topping evenly over the cake. Allow the topping to soak into the cake as it cools, creating a moist and flavorful dessert. The cake can be served warm or at room temperature.
Tips for a Perfect Cajun Cake:
- Customization: Feel free to add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
- Make Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance. In fact, letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to meld even more, making it taste even better the next day.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the sweet, nutty topping.
This Cajun Cake is a deliciously easy dessert that combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the richness of coconut and pecans. Whether you’re making it for a casual family dinner or a special event, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Enjoy every moist, flavorful bite!