Go Back
Preacher Cake Recipe

Preacher Cake Recipe

This classic Preacher Cake is a vintage dessert that’s stood the test of time—for good reason! Made with crushed pineapple, warm cinnamon, and chopped pecans, it's moist, flavorful, and topped with rich cream cheese frosting. Legend says it was whipped up quickly for surprise visits from the preacher—hence the name! Whether you call it Preachers Cake or pineapple spice cake, this one-bowl wonder is the ultimate in no-fuss dessert recipes. Perfect for potlucks, family get-togethers, or a cozy night in, it's simple, satisfying, and sure to become a favorite in your recipe box.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course cake, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 Servings
Calories 267 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 20 oz can crushed pineapple in juice – do not drain
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 8 oz package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Mix the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Stir in eggs, undrained crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract until everything is just combined.
  • Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
  • Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until creamy.
  • Frost & Garnish: Once the cake has fully cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Sprinkle with additional chopped pecans for a delightful crunch and presentation.

Notes

  • Don’t drain the pineapple! The juice keeps the cake incredibly moist and enhances its natural sweetness.
  • Cool completely before frosting – the cream cheese frosting will melt if the cake is still warm.
  • Make ahead-friendly – this cake gets even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Did you Like This Recipe? Please Rate and Comment Below!

Keyword Easy