In my youth, it was common practice to whip up a cake whenever visitors dropped by, and this cake brings back fond memories of those occasions. As a child, this was one of my favorite cakes, and now as an adult, I enjoy baking it because it is simple, easy to make, delicious, and reminds me of being a kid again. The recipe card that my mother used to make us all of our favorite meals had frayed corners and a few stains on it, so I know it was used frequently. A surefire indicator of a fantastic dish.
My mood is instantly improved by the aroma of this cake baking, and once it’s been discovered, it doesn’t last long at my house because of how delicious the cream cheese frosting is. It goes well with hot or cold beverages, such as coffee, tea, or milk. The texture and flavor are both soft and exquisite, making this a top pick among diners.
If my recollection serves me correctly, this cake was commonly referred to as Sunshine Cake because of the uplifting, tropical flavor of the pineapple. To me, it’s like a little bit of sunshine!
Enjoy!
INGREDIENTS
For the Cake
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoon baking soda
2 eggs – beaten
1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, with juice – Do Not Drain
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped pecans
For the Frosting
1 stick butter – softened to room temperature
1 8oz cream cheese – softened to room temperature
2 cups confectioners’ sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla
DIRECTIONS
The Cake
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch pan.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and baking soda.
Stir in the eggs, pineapple, and vanilla, mixing until blended.
Fold in pecans.
Pour batter into prepared pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
The Frosting
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy.
Add confectioners’ sugar and vanilla; beat until smooth.
Frost the cooled cake.
Cover and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.