If you’re craving a dessert that combines a burst of tropical sweetness with that irresistible Southern charm, this Cajun Cake Recipe is an absolute treasure you’ll want to keep in your recipe rotation. Soft, moist, and packed with pineapple’s natural juiciness, this cake is topped with a luscious, buttery caramel-like glaze studded with crisp pecans and coconut. Every bite feels like a cozy, flavorful hug that perfectly balances texture and taste, making it a standout favorite for family gatherings or whenever you want to treat yourself to something comforting and uniquely delightful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cajun Cake Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a perfect role, whether it’s creating moistness, adding a hint of sweetness, or delivering that classic Southern flair.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the cake’s tender structure without being too dense.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides the essential sweetness that brightens every bite.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay light.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the other flavors.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds depth and a warm, inviting aroma.
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple (with juice): The star ingredient that keeps the cake incredibly moist and bursting with tropical flavor.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional): Adds a wonderful crunch and nutty contrast.
- 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional): Brings a bit of chewiness and sweetness that complements the pineapple.
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Creates a rich, silky base for the topping.
- 3/4 cup brown sugar: Gives the topping its deep caramel flavor.
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk: Adds creaminess without being too heavy.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Adds texture and nutty flavor to the topping.
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut: Sweet, toasty notes that marry beautifully with the cake’s flavors.
How to Make Cajun Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your cake has a clean release with a beautifully crisp edge. This preparation step sets the stage for a hassle-free baking experience.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. It’s important to distribute everything evenly here to guarantee the cake bakes uniformly and rises to the perfect texture.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and the entire can of crushed pineapple with its juice. Mixing these wet ingredients in with the dry until just combined ensures your cake maintains a tender crumb and juicy flavor without becoming dense.
Step 4: Fold in Pecans and Coconut (Optional)
If you’re including pecans and coconut, gently fold them into the batter now. They bring delightful texture and flavor surprises in every bite that really elevate the cake to something extraordinary.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth it out evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This is the moment the kitchen fills with that knockout aroma that will have everyone eager to dig in.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping
While the cake is baking, combine butter, brown sugar, and evaporated milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly as it comes to a gentle boil and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened slightly. Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans and shredded coconut for that classic, rich Southern finish.
Step 7: Top the Cake Hot
As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour the warm topping evenly across its surface. The heat helps the topping soak in slightly and form a sticky, decadent glaze. Let the cake cool just enough so the topping sets before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Cajun Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra showstopper, you can garnish your Cajun Cake Recipe with fresh pineapple slices or a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully, enhancing the cake’s moist sweetness and adding a cool contrast to the rich topping.
Side Dishes
This cake shines as a dessert following Southern-inspired meals, such as spicy Cajun jambalaya or smoky barbecue. The sweet, tropical notes clean the palate and balance bold, savory flavors perfectly. A simple cup of strong coffee or iced tea on the side completes the experience wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your Cajun Cake Recipe into neat squares for casual family dinners, or fancy it up by serving it in elegant dessert plates with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprig of fresh mint. You can even use it as a decadent base for a trifle with layers of whipped cream and fresh berries to surprise and delight your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your Cajun Cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it moist and flavorful. It stays fresh at room temperature for about two days, perfect if you want to enjoy it over a few casual gatherings.
Freezing
If you want to hold onto this treasure longer, cut the cake into individual slices, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen, the cake keeps well for up to a month. Just thaw slices in the fridge overnight before serving for the best texture and taste.
Reheating
Warm your leftover cake slices gently in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a low oven to revive that fresh-baked feel. The topping softens beautifully, making each bite just as comforting as the first time you made it.
FAQs
Can I omit the nuts and coconut in the Cajun Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! The pecans and coconut are optional additions that add texture and flavor, but leaving them out still yields a deliciously moist and flavorful cake.
Is the cake best served warm or cold?
This cake is traditionally served warm to enjoy the gooey topping at its best, but it also tastes fantastic at room temperature. Either way, it’s a treat you won’t want to miss.
Can I make the Cajun Cake Recipe gluten-free?
You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or other binding agents for the best texture.
How long does the cake keep fresh?
When stored properly, the cake stays fresh for up to two days at room temperature and up to a week refrigerated. Always cover it well to prevent it from drying out.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just double all the ingredients and bake in a larger pan or two pans. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it may vary depending on the size and depth of your pans.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Cake Recipe is one of those special desserts that bring warmth and joy with every bite. It’s wonderfully easy to make, bursting with flavor, and flexible enough to suit your taste—whether you keep it simple or pile on the nuts and coconut. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience just how delightful Southern baking can be when it’s done just right!
Print
Cajun Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cajun Cake is a moist, flavorful Southern dessert featuring a blend of crushed pineapple, pecans, and coconut in a tender, sweet cake topped with a rich praline-like topping. Perfect for gatherings or an indulgent treat, it offers the nostalgic taste of old-fashioned cakes with a delightful texture and warm caramelized topping.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional)
Topping Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and entire can of crushed pineapple with juice to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which could toughen the cake.
- Fold in Nuts and Coconut: Carefully fold in the chopped pecans and shredded sweetened coconut if using, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Prepare Topping: While the cake bakes, combine unsalted butter, brown sugar, and evaporated milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly as the mixture comes to a gentle boil to prevent burning.
- Cook and Thicken Topping: Continue to cook the topping for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove it from the heat and stir in chopped pecans and shredded coconut to complete the topping.
- Apply Topping: Immediately after removing the cake from the oven, pour the warm topping evenly over the hot cake. Use a spatula or spoon to spread it across the entire surface.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly so the topping can set before slicing and serving. This cake is delicious served warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- This moist cake is often served warm but also tastes great at room temperature.
- You can omit nuts and coconut for a simpler version without sacrificing flavor.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for short-term freshness or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
