Gather around for a slice of Preacher Cake, a beloved treat steeped in tradition and bursting with flavors that speak to the soul. This straightforward yet scrumptious cake is loaded with crushed pineapple, cinnamon, and pecans, topped off with a creamy cream cheese frosting. It’s said to be so good that it’s the kind of cake you’d whip up quickly if you heard the preacher was coming to visit hence the name!
A Homely Delight with a Heavenly Taste
Preacher Cake combines simple ingredients to create a dessert that’s rich in flavors and has a wonderfully moist texture. Its ease of preparation and delightful taste make it a favorite for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a community potluck, or just a special treat to brighten a regular day.
Pro Tips for Perfect Preacher Cake
- Texture and Flavor: Ensure that the pineapple is not drained; its juice is crucial for the moist texture and rich flavor of the cake.
- Even Mixing: Mix the ingredients until just combined for a dense, yet soft cake texture.
- Frosting Flair: Allow the cake to completely cool before frosting to prevent the cream cheese topping from melting.
Preacher Cake Recipe:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
- Serving: 12 servings
- Equipment: 9×13 inch baking pan
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Frosting:
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Mix Cake Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Stir in the crushed pineapple with its juice, pecans, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare Frosting: While the cake cools, beat together butter, cream cheese, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually mix in powdered sugar until creamy.
- Frost and Garnish: Spread the frosting over the cooled cake. Sprinkle with chopped pecans for garnish.
A Cake with a Story
Preacher Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of history and hospitality, evoking memories of impromptu visits and community gatherings. It’s the perfect cake for those who appreciate a dessert that is as easy to make as it is delicious. Serve this at your next gathering and watch it become a new favorite among your guests, just as it has been for generations in many communities.
