Description
Moist, sweet, and topped with a buttery coconut-pecan glaze, this Granny Cake is a nostalgic Southern dessert that’s as comforting as it is irresistible. Made with simple pantry ingredients and loaded with crushed pineapple and brown sugar, this old-fashioned cake is tender, gooey, and perfect for potlucks, holidays, or whenever you’re craving a tried-and-true homemade treat.
Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1½ cups granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1 tsp baking soda
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
½ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
1 cup brown sugar, packed
¾ cup evaporated milk
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
1 cup chopped pecans
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep the Pan
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
-
In a large bowl, mix sugar, flour, baking soda, and salt.
-
Add eggs, crushed pineapple (with juice), and vanilla extract.
-
Stir by hand until well combined—no need for a mixer.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
-
Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
-
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
-
Begin making the topping about 10 minutes before the cake is done.
Step 4: Make the Topping
-
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, evaporated milk, and butter.
-
Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly, and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
-
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, coconut, and chopped pecans.
Step 5: Pour Topping Over Cake
-
While the cake is still warm, poke holes all over the top using a toothpick or skewer.
-
Slowly pour the warm topping over the entire surface, allowing it to soak into the cake.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
-
Let the cake cool for at least 20–30 minutes before slicing.
-
Serve warm or at room temperature—either way, it’s delicious.
Notes
Use Pineapple in Juice – Not syrup, to avoid extra sweetness.
Poke Deep Holes – So the topping can soak into the cake properly.
Don’t Overmix – Stir just until the batter comes together to keep it tender.
Serve Warm – For the best gooey, buttery texture.
Let It Rest – The flavor gets even better as it sits.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Cuisine: Southern American