Jail House Cake
A moist, pineapple-infused cake with a crunchy nut topping, perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, offering a sweet, tropical flavor with a delightful texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients, including pineapple and juice, in a bowl until well combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Sprinkle the top with one cup of chopped nuts and 3/4 cup of brown sugar.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar, or add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter. If you're out of eggs, you can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce. Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid excess moisture in the cake. This recipe is an excellent way to use up overripe fruit, as seen in other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jail House Cake warm or at room temperature, topped with a dollop of homemade whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or some fresh fruit. This cake is a delightful dessert reminiscent of My Grandmother'S 2-Layer Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Jail House Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jail House Cake contains roughly 193 calories, with 2g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 615mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
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 fruit instead of pineapple?
Yes! You can substitute the crushed pineapple with crushed peaches or even applesauce for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the fruit is well-drained to maintain the cake's texture.
What can I do if the cake is too dense?
If your Jail House Cake turns out dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter. Be sure to mix just until the ingredients are combined. Additionally, ensure your baking soda is fresh to provide the necessary lift.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
To make Jail House Cake vegan, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer. Use plant-based milk and a vegan butter alternative for greasing the pan. The crushed pineapple adds moisture, making it easier to adapt this cake to vegetarian recipes.
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).