This Granny Cake is a nostalgic Southern dessert that combines moist pineapple cake with a sweet brown sugar and pecan topping, all finished with a rich, buttery icing. Simple to prepare and irresistibly delicious, it’s the kind of cake that feels like it came straight from grandma’s kitchen. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy family treat, this recipe delivers comfort in every bite.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
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Baking beginners – Easy to follow with simple ingredients.
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Family cooks – A great make-ahead dessert that everyone loves.
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Pineapple fans – Sweet, fruity flavor balanced with a buttery topping.
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Home entertainers – A crowd-pleasing cake for holidays or dinner parties.
Why It’s Great
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Old-fashioned charm: Brings back the flavor of vintage Southern baking.
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Moist and tender: Pineapple keeps the cake soft and flavorful.
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Topping built-in: The brown sugar and pecans bake right on top for extra texture.
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Rich finish: A buttery icing poured over the warm cake takes it to the next level.
Ingredients
Cake
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1 ½ cups sugar
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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½ teaspoon salt
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2 large eggs
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1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple (with juice)
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1 cup brown sugar
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1 cup chopped pecans
Icing
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1 cup evaporated milk
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½ cup sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Batter
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In a large bowl, combine sugar, flour, baking soda, and salt.
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Stir in the eggs and the undrained crushed pineapple until blended.
3. Add the Topping
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Pour the batter into the prepared dish.
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Sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and pecans.
4. Bake
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Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Make the Icing
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In a saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, and butter.
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Bring to a boil, then remove from heat.
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Stir in vanilla extract.
6. Finish the Cake
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Pour the hot icing over the warm cake.
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Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk or electric mixer
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9×13-inch baking dish
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Saucepan
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Measuring cups and spoons
Storage
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Room Temperature: Cover and store for up to 2 days.
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Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
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Freezing: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
FAQ
1. Can I substitute fresh pineapple for canned?
Yes, but keep the juice! Fresh pineapple should be finely chopped and juicy for the right texture.
2. Do I have to use pecans?
No, walnuts or almonds work just as well—or skip nuts if you prefer.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavor deepens overnight, making it even better the next day.
Conclusion
This Granny Cake recipe is a timeless dessert filled with warmth, flavor, and comfort. With its moist pineapple base, crunchy brown sugar–pecan topping, and rich buttery icing, it’s the perfect cake to share with loved ones. Whether you’re baking for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this cake is sure to impress and become a new favorite.
Try it once, and you’ll understand why it’s called Granny Cake—just like something made with love in grandma’s kitchen.
