This Preacher Cake is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, with moist layers of cake, the tropical sweetness of pineapple, and the nutty crunch of coconut. The glaze adds the perfect finish, making each bite melt in your mouth.
Ideal for family gatherings or a casual afternoon treat, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity makes it a go-to dessert for anyone who loves a comforting, flavorful dish without the hassle of complex preparations. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a sweet pick-me-up, Preacher Cake is sure to hit the spot.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 cups flour
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1 1/2 cups sugar
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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2 cups crushed pineapple, undrained
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1 cup shredded coconut
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1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
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1 egg
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1/2 cup vegetable oil
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
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2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
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Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
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Add in the crushed pineapple with its juice, shredded coconut, walnuts, egg, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine until smooth.
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Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
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Once the cake has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top.
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Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
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Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Introduction to Preacher Cake
Preacher Cake is one of those timeless, comfort food desserts that has been cherished in many households for generations. With its delightful mix of tropical flavors and comforting spices, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply craving a delicious homemade dessert, Preacher Cake checks all the boxes. The combination of pineapple, coconut, and cinnamon gives this cake a unique, sweet, and spiced flavor profile that appeals to a wide range of tastes. Plus, the glaze drizzled over the top adds an irresistible finishing touch.
A Brief History of Preacher Cake
The origins of Preacher Cake are somewhat humble but rooted in the American South, where it became a popular dessert for community gatherings, church events, and family meals. The name “Preacher Cake” is often linked to religious gatherings, where it was common for cakes to be shared after Sunday services. Some suggest that it was called “Preacher Cake” because it was simple and affordable enough for a community to bake and enjoy without breaking the bank. The cake’s versatility, ease of preparation, and delightful flavor quickly made it a staple at various events.
Why Choose Preacher Cake for Your Next Gathering?
One of the key reasons Preacher Cake is so beloved is because it’s incredibly easy to make. With a straightforward list of ingredients and a few basic steps, even novice bakers can whip up this cake in no time. It’s also highly customizable. If you’re looking for a dessert that can accommodate different dietary preferences, you can easily adjust the recipe to suit vegan or gluten-free needs by swapping out certain ingredients. The moist texture and blend of tropical flavors make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and its long shelf life means you can make it ahead of time for a party or event without worrying about it going stale.
Another benefit of Preacher Cake is that it appeals to a variety of tastes. The pineapple gives the cake a natural sweetness, while the coconut adds texture and a bit of nutty flavor. The cinnamon and other warm spices make it comforting and perfect for those who enjoy cakes that are both sweet and spiced. Whether you love tropical flavors or are simply looking for something comforting and nostalgic, Preacher Cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
The Ingredients That Make Preacher Cake Stand Out
The beauty of Preacher Cake lies in its simplicity. The recipe calls for basic pantry staples such as flour, sugar, and baking soda, along with some pantry-friendly add-ins like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground ginger. But what really makes the cake shine is the combination of crushed pineapple and shredded coconut. The pineapple not only sweetens the cake naturally but also contributes moisture, which helps to keep the cake tender and soft. The coconut adds a chewy texture and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the tropical sweetness of the pineapple.
Another feature of Preacher Cake is its versatility. While the classic recipe includes walnuts, they are entirely optional. If you’re not a fan of nuts or have guests with nut allergies, feel free to leave them out or replace them with something else, like chocolate chips or dried fruit. The cake is also delicious without any nuts, making it a great base for whatever variations you want to experiment with.
The Importance of the Glaze
One of the final touches that elevate Preacher Cake is the glaze. Made from powdered sugar and milk, this simple yet sweet topping adds a glossy, sugary finish that perfectly complements the slightly spiced and fruity cake. The glaze not only enhances the flavor but also adds an extra layer of sweetness, making each bite a little more indulgent. This is where you can get creative if you want to add something extra to the glaze. Some people like to infuse their glaze with vanilla, coconut milk, or even a splash of rum for a more tropical flair. Others prefer to keep it simple with the classic sugar and milk mixture. Regardless of how you make it, the glaze is what brings everything together.
Baking Tips for a Perfect Preacher Cake
To ensure your Preacher Cake comes out perfectly every time, there are a few key baking tips to keep in mind. First, always make sure to properly measure your ingredients, especially when it comes to flour and sugar. Too much flour can make the cake dense, while too little sugar can affect the overall sweetness. If you’re using fresh pineapple, make sure to drain it properly to avoid adding excess moisture that could make the cake too soggy.
When preparing the cake, be sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients until they are just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture, so be gentle and stop as soon as the batter comes together. If you’re using a stand mixer or hand mixer, it’s best to mix on a low speed to avoid overworking the batter.
Another tip is to let the cake cool slightly before applying the glaze. If the cake is too hot when you add the glaze, it may melt and run off, leaving you with a less attractive and less flavorful result. Allow the cake to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before drizzling the glaze over the top, and let it set before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Preacher Cake
Preacher Cake is delicious on its own, but you can serve it in a variety of ways to make it even more special. For an indulgent treat, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of chocolate syrup or a sprinkle of toasted coconut can also make for a fun and decorative touch. For a more festive presentation, you could slice the cake into smaller squares, plate them with fresh fruit, or garnish with mint leaves for a pop of color.
If you want to take it a step further, try pairing your Preacher Cake with a hot beverage like coffee or tea. The spices in the cake blend beautifully with the warmth of a well-brewed cup of coffee, making it an excellent choice for a dessert served after a cozy brunch or dinner gathering.
Why Preacher Cake is Perfect for Any Occasion
What makes Preacher Cake stand out is its ability to adapt to any situation. Whether you’re baking for a casual family meal or preparing something special for a holiday or celebration, this cake is versatile enough to suit any occasion. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe when you need something quick, yet delicious, that everyone will enjoy.
The combination of tropical flavors with a touch of warm spices makes it a perfect dessert for both warm-weather gatherings and chilly fall nights. You can even bake it in advance and store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness, making it a great make-ahead option. Its rustic charm and hearty flavor also make it a fantastic option for serving at bake sales, community events, and potlucks.
Conclusion
Preacher Cake is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a simple yet satisfying blend of tropical pineapple, nutty coconut, and warm spices. With its easy-to-follow recipe and minimal ingredients, it’s a dessert that can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family get-together or simply craving a comforting treat, this cake is sure to bring joy to your taste buds. With a slight tweak here and there, you can make it your own, adding extra flavors or switching up the glaze. No matter how you choose to serve it, Preacher Cake is a dessert that’s always guaranteed to be loved by everyone who tries it. Give it a try, and you’ll understand why this classic cake has stood the test of time.