Budget Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 35 min Cuisine: American

A moist, flavorful cake with hints of cinnamon and coconut, complemented by the sweetness of pineapple. Perfect for budget-friendly gatherings or everyday treats, it offers a delightful texture and aroma that appeals to both casual and special occasions. Easy to make and satisfying to enjoy.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 small can coconut
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 1/4 cups salad oil
  • 1 small can crushed pineapple, drained slightly

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a mixer and beat until well mixed, approximately 2 minutes.
  2. Pour the batter into two greased and floured 9-inch cake pans.
  3. Bake at 325°F for 35 minutes.
  4. Cool the cakes before icing with cream cheese frosting.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding vanilla extract or a splash of almond extract. You can substitute half of the salad oil with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version. If you prefer a fruitier cake, try adding chopped nuts or dried fruits to the batter, similar to what you might find in Applesauce-Spice Cake.

Serving Suggestions

This Budget Cake is perfect for casual gatherings or as a delicious dessert after dinner. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a delightful twist, serve it alongside a fruit salad or the refreshing Pineapple Cottage Cheese for a light and satisfying meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through, or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Budget Cake contains roughly 696 calories, with 8g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (55% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1857mg per serving (81% of the Daily Value).

696 kcal 35% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.2g 16% DV
Total Fat 43.2g 55% DV
Carbs 79.1g 29% DV
Fiber 15.5g 55% DV
Sugar 7.7g 15% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1857.4mg 81% DV
Potassium 865.6mg 18% DV
Cholesterol 64.5mg 22% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 16.5mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 42.2mg 47% DV
Calcium 108.7mg 8% DV
Iron 4.4mg 24% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of oil instead of salad oil?

Yes, you can substitute salad oil with vegetable oil or canola oil, which will provide similar results. For a unique flavor, you might also use melted coconut oil, complementing the coconut in the recipe.

What can I use instead of crushed pineapple?

If you don't have crushed pineapple, you can use applesauce or mashed ripe bananas as a substitute, though this will alter the flavor slightly. For a tropical twist, consider using canned peaches or mangoes, making sure to drain them well.

How can I make this cake more festive?

To make the Budget Cake more festive, try adding colorful sprinkles to the batter or on top of the cream cheese frosting. You could also layer the cake with fresh fruit or add a fruit glaze for a pop of color and flavor.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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