Welcome to a world where indulgence meets comfort in every bite! Imagine a cake so divine, it’s worthy of being called a “Preacher Cake.” This isn’t just any dessert; it’s a delightful journey through textures and flavors that will have you savoring every forkful. Imagine sinking your teeth into a moist, dense cake bursting with the tangy sweetness of crushed pineapple, the gentle warmth of cinnamon, and the tropical allure of coconut flakes. Now, add the richness of a smooth, creamy cream cheese frosting, topped with a crunch of pecans or walnuts, and you have a piece of heaven on your plate.
In this recipe, we’re not just baking a cake; we’re creating memories. Whether it’s for a special occasion, a family gathering, or simply a treat for yourself, the Preacher Cake is sure to captivate your taste buds and leave you longing for more. Don’t just take our word for it; let’s embark on this culinary adventure together. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to creating this masterpiece, complete with tips, FAQs, and more. Get ready to be the star of your kitchen with this show-stopping dessert! 🍰✨
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 2 cups sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 20-ounce can crushed pineapple (don’t drain)
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans or walnuts, divided
- 1 cup flaked coconut
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
Let’s Get Baking!
- Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Combine sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Mix on medium-low speed with an electric mixer until creamy.
- Slowly mix in the sifted flour mixture until just combined.
- Add the undrained crushed pineapple, 1 cup of chopped pecans (or walnuts), and flaked coconut to the batter. Continue mixing on medium-low speed until all ingredients are thoroughly combined (about 1 minute).
- Prepare a 13×9-inch baking pan by spraying it with cooking spray. Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 45-50 minutes or until the cake is set in the center and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Frost the cooled cake with the Cream Cheese Frosting.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of chopped pecans over the frosted cake.
- Store the Preacher Cake in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Enjoy chilled!
The Perfect Texture and Flavor
The Preacher Cake is a harmony of textures and flavors. The cake itself is moist and tender, thanks to the pineapple and vegetable oil. The crunch of pecans or walnuts adds a delightful contrast, while the cinnamon adds a warm, comforting note. The coconut flakes bring a subtle tropical twist that elevates the overall taste experience.
Cream Cheese Frosting: The Icing on the Cake
No Preacher Cake is complete without its signature cream cheese frosting. This frosting is rich, creamy, and not overly sweet, making it the perfect complement to the cake. The vanilla extract in the frosting ties together the cake and frosting flavors seamlessly.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? A1: Yes, though you’ll need to adjust for sweetness and moisture.
Q2: How can I store the Preacher Cake? A2: It’s best stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.
Q3: Can this cake be made in advance? A3: Absolutely! It even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Q4: Is there a nut-free alternative for the topping? A4: Yes, you can use additional coconut or a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar.
Conclusion
The Preacher Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together in perfect harmony. Its moist crumb, rich frosting, and the delightful crunch of nuts make it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this cake is sure to impress.