Southern Pineapple Cake
There’s something about Southern Pineapple Cake that brings my family to the table faster than anything else. Maybe it’s the sweet aroma of pineapples mingling with warm spices as it bakes, or perhaps it’s the buttery crumble topping that gets golden and irresistible. This recipe came into my life during a Sunday family gathering when I wanted a dessert that was easy to prepare but felt indulgent and homemade. It didn’t disappoint.
This cake has quickly become a household staple. My kids love it after school, especially with a drizzle of cream cheese glaze, while my husband enjoys it with his morning coffee. I can’t count the number of times someone has asked me, “What’s in this cake? It’s amazing!” It’s the perfect dessert for busy moms because it’s straightforward to whip up, and the ingredients are pantry staples. The juicy pineapple keeps it wonderfully moist, while the crumbly topping adds just the right crunch. It’s that magical combination of simple and special that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
If you’re looking for a dessert that brings comfort and joy without requiring hours in the kitchen, this Southern Pineapple Cake is it. And the best part? It’s just as good the next day—if there’s any left, that is!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes! While canned pineapple is more convenient and consistent, fresh pineapple adds a wonderful brightness. Just make sure to dice it finely and drain any excess juice.
What’s the best way to store this cake?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it and reheat slices gently before serving.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but it’ll still be delicious.
What can I use instead of the crumble topping?
If you’re in a pinch, a dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze works beautifully.
What You Need to Make Southern Pineapple Cake
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Crumble Topping
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup brown sugar
¾ cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Special Equipment
9×13-inch baking dish
Mixing bowls
Whisk
How to Make Southern Pineapple Cake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix the batter. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, crushed pineapple (with juice), and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined. Fold in pecans if using.
Pour into the dish. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Prepare the topping. In a separate bowl, combine butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Use your fingers to mix until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the batter.
Bake. Place the cake in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and serve. Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Making the Best Southern Pineapple Cake
Don’t skip the juice! The pineapple juice adds moisture and flavor, so don’t drain it.
Customize the crunch. Add shredded coconut or chopped walnuts to the topping for extra texture.
Double the glaze. If you love a sweet finish, drizzle on a simple cream cheese glaze for added decadence.
Make it ahead. This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Reader Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “My kids couldn’t get enough! This cake is so moist and flavorful.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Perfect for a quick dessert. I made it for a potluck, and everyone asked for the recipe!”
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Great flavor, but I’ll use less sugar in the topping next time.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I love how easy this was to make! A total crowd-pleaser.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Next time, I’ll try adding coconut. Still, it was delicious!”
Printable Recipe
Southern Pineapple Cake
Southern Pineapple Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert topped with a buttery crumble. It’s easy to make with simple pantry ingredients and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
- Crumble Topping
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Special Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the batter. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, crushed pineapple (with juice), and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined. Fold in pecans if using.
- Pour into the dish. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the topping. In a separate bowl, combine butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Use your fingers to mix until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the batter.
- Bake. Place the cake in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve. Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature.
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
There’s nothing like the joy of sharing a recipe that warms hearts and fills bellies. If you loved this Southern Pineapple Cake, share it with friends and family on social media! Snap a picture of your creation and tag us so we can see how yours turned out. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a cozy night at home, this cake is meant to be shared and loved by all.
