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Preacher Cake Dessert: A Deliciously Sweet Southern Tradition


  • Author: Dottie
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

Enjoy a slice of Preacher Cake, a moist and tropical dessert made with crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and crunchy nuts, all topped with creamy vanilla frosting. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple (with juice)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
  • 2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and salt. Whisk together until well blended.
  3. Add the baking soda to the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
  4. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Then, add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract to the eggs, mixing until combined.
  5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
  6. Fold in the crushed pineapple (with juice), shredded coconut, and chopped nuts. Ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes.
  10. After cooling slightly, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help prevent the cake from becoming soggy.
  11. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
  12. Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat the mixture until smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
  13. Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top using a spatula. Make sure to cover the entire surface for a beautiful finish.
  14. After frosting, let the cake sit for about 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set slightly.
  15. Cut the cake into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. A sharp knife will help achieve clean cuts.
  16. Serve the Preacher Cake at room temperature or slightly chilled. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
  17. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day!

Notes

  • For added flavor, consider toasting the nuts before adding them to the batter.
  • Substitute crushed pineapple with crushed mango or papaya for a tropical twist.
  • Experiment with different types of nuts or add chocolate chips for a richer dessert.
  • For a more decadent frosting, add 4 oz of softened cream cheese to the frosting mixture.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes