This Pineapple Pecan Cream Cheese Pound Cake is rich, moist, and packed with sweet pineapple, crunchy pecans, and creamy cream cheese. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or an indulgent dessert.
Pineapple Pecan Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Pineapple Pecan Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a delicious twist on the classic pound cake. The addition of cream cheese creates an incredibly moist and tender crumb, while crushed pineapple adds natural sweetness and pecans provide a delightful crunch.
This cake is elegant enough for special occasions yet simple enough to enjoy with a cup of coffee any day of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and buttery texture
- Moist from cream cheese and pineapple
- Crunchy pecans in every bite
- Perfect for holidays and celebrations
- Easy to make ahead
- Beautiful presentation
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 75–85 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: About 2 hours
Servings
Serves 12–14
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs, room temperature
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Glaze (Optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
- Bundt pan or tube pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
- Spatula
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Grease and flour a Bundt or tube pan thoroughly.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
Gradually add the sugar and continue beating for 3–5 minutes until light and creamy.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
Step 5: Mix the Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture.
Mix on low speed until just combined.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 6: Add Pineapple and Pecans
Fold in the drained crushed pineapple and chopped pecans.
Mix gently until evenly distributed.
Step 7: Fill the Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Spread evenly with a spatula.
Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.
Step 8: Bake
Bake for 75–85 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil during the final portion of baking.
Step 9: Cool the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
Carefully remove it from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Powdered sugar
- Pineapple juice
- Vanilla extract
Mix until smooth.
Step 11: Glaze and Serve
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.
Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pound cake with:
- Fresh pineapple slices
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- Coffee or tea
- Fresh berries
Recipe Tips
- Drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
- Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Do not overmix after adding the flour.
- Toast the pecans for deeper flavor.
- Let the cake cool completely before glazing.
Storage Instructions
Room Temperature
Store covered for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezer
Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight before serving.
Variations
Coconut Pineapple Pound Cake
Add 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut to the batter.
Tropical Glaze
Replace the pineapple juice glaze with a pineapple-coconut glaze.
Walnut Version
Substitute walnuts for pecans.
Final Thoughts
Pineapple Pecan Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a rich, moist, and flavorful dessert that combines buttery pound cake, sweet pineapple, and crunchy pecans into one unforgettable treat. Whether served at a holiday gathering or enjoyed with afternoon coffee, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.