Welcome to the world of effortless indulgence with our Classic Do-Nothing Cake recipe. This delightful dessert, also known as the “Lazy Daisy Cake,” lives up to its name by requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. With a moist pineapple-infused cake base topped with a decadent coconut-pecan frosting, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser. Join us as we explore the simplicity and charm of this timeless recipe, perfect for any occasion where sweet cravings and convenience collide.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 (8 or 11 oz.) can crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup walnut or pecans, roughly chopped
- 3/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Mix Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed pineapple (with juice), yellow cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Pour Batter into Pan:
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake Cake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Make Frosting:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, shredded coconut, chopped walnuts or pecans, evaporated milk, and unsalted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the mixture is well combined.
- Spread Frosting:
- Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately spread the frosting over the hot cake, covering it evenly.
- Broil Frosting (Optional):
- For a toasted coconut-pecan topping, place the frosted cake under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the frosting is bubbly and golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving. Enjoy each decadent bite of this Classic Do-Nothing Cake!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Fruit Variation: Experiment with different canned fruits such as peaches or mandarin oranges in place of pineapple for a fruity twist.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the walnuts or pecans from the frosting for a nut-free version of the cake.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to make this cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Substitute the yellow cake mix with a keto-friendly cake mix made with almond flour or coconut flour. Use a sugar-free sweetener in place of sugar in both the cake and frosting. Adjust the quantities to maintain the desired consistency.
- Low Carb Version: Follow the keto substitutions mentioned above and ensure all ingredients are low in carbohydrates. Opt for unsweetened shredded coconut to further reduce carbs in the frosting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Why is it Called Do-Nothing Cake? The name “Do-Nothing Cake” refers to the simplicity of the recipe, as it requires minimal effort to prepare. The cake batter comes together quickly, and the frosting is made on the stovetop while the cake bakes.
- Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned? Yes, you can use fresh pineapple in place of canned pineapple. Simply chop the fresh pineapple into small pieces and use it along with any accumulated juices.
- How Should I Store Leftover Cake? Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate the cake to extend its freshness, but bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- Can I Freeze Do-Nothing Cake? Yes, you can freeze this cake. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Can I Make This Cake in Advance? Absolutely! This cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have a chance to meld together. Prepare the cake a day ahead and store it covered at room temperature until ready to serve.
In conclusion, the Classic Do-Nothing Cake is a testament to the joy of effortless baking and the satisfaction of simple pleasures. With its moist pineapple-infused cake base and rich coconut-pecan frosting, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser that captures the essence of homemade comfort food. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your repertoire. So embrace the ease and delight of the Do-Nothing Cake, and treat yourself to a slice of pure indulgence.
