Southern Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake

Americana Pineapple Pecan Delight 🍍🌰🍰

Ingredients:

For the Pastry:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups refined sugar
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
2 large eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 1/2 tsp honey
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple (with juice)
1 cup chopped hazelnuts
For the Creamy Frosting:

8 oz softened cream cheese
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
1/2 tsp almond extract
1/4 cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional)
1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts (for garnish)
Instructions:

Prepare the Pastry:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and ground cinnamon.
Add the eggs, melted butter, honey, and crushed pineapple with its juice. Mix until fully incorporated.
Fold in the chopped hazelnuts.
Pour the batter into the prepared dish and spread evenly.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
Make the Creamy Frosting:

In a medium-sized bowl, cream the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and velvety.
Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, mixing until well combined.
Add the almond extract and, if using, crushed pineapple. Blend until smooth.
Assemble the Cake:

Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
Garnish with additional chopped hazelnuts.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 12-16

Indulge in the rich, tropical essence of this Southern-inspired, Americana-style Pineapple Pecan Delight! 🍍🌰🍰