Discover the divine delight of Preacher Cake, a timeless dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. This classic recipe has been passed down through generations, earning its name from its simple yet heavenly flavors that are sure to please any congregation. With a moist and tender crumb, a burst of pineapple sweetness, and a rich cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion, from Sunday dinners to special celebrations. Join us as we explore the art of baking and indulge in the goodness of Preacher Cake.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, with juice
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped walnuts, divided
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup butter, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar until well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Incorporate Pineapple and Walnuts: Fold in the crushed pineapple with its juice and 1 cup of finely chopped walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: While the cake is baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until fluffy.
- Cool and Frost: Allow the cake to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts over the frosted cake for added texture and decoration. Slice into squares and serve.
Cook’s Notes:
- Be sure to drain the crushed pineapple well before adding it to the batter to prevent excess moisture in the cake.
- For a nut-free version, you can omit the walnuts or substitute them with chopped pecans or shredded coconut for added flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Pineapple Coconut Cake: Add shredded coconut to the batter along with the crushed pineapple for a tropical twist on this classic recipe. Top the cake with toasted coconut flakes for extra flair.
- Carrot Pineapple Cake: Incorporate shredded carrots into the batter for a moist and flavorful carrot cake variation. The sweetness of the pineapple complements the earthy flavor of the carrots perfectly.
Keto Version:
For a keto-friendly version of Preacher Cake, you can make a few simple substitutions to reduce the carb content. Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for a gluten-free option. Use a sugar-free sweetener such as erythritol or stevia instead of sugar. For the cream cheese frosting, use full-fat cream cheese and powdered erythritol to sweeten.
Low-Carb Version:
To make a low-carb version of this cake, follow the same instructions as the keto version but also consider reducing the amount of sweetener and using fewer nuts to further lower the carb content. You can also experiment with alternative flours such as flaxseed meal or oat fiber to create a denser, lower-carb texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? A: Yes, you can use fresh pineapple in this recipe. Just be sure to finely chop it and drain any excess juice before adding it to the batter.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, you can bake the cake ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Frost the cake just before serving for the best results.
Q: Can I freeze leftover cake? A: Absolutely! You can freeze leftover cake slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of nut in the cake? A: Of course! Feel free to use your favorite nuts in this recipe, such as pecans, almonds, or macadamia nuts, for added crunch and flavor.
Q: Can I make this cake without nuts? A: Yes, you can omit the nuts from the cake batter if you prefer a nut-free version. The cake will still be deliciously moist and flavorful.
Indulge in the heartwarming goodness of Preacher Cake, a dessert that’s sure to uplift your spirits and satisfy your sweet cravings. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and irresistible flavor, this cake is a testament to the joy of homemade baking. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a sweet ending to a special meal, Preacher Cake is sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the heavenly delight of Preacher Cake.
