Pineapple Cowboy Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A moist, flavorful pineapple cowboy cake with nuts, perfect for gatherings and dessert tables, combining sweet pineapple, crunchy nuts, and a tender crumb.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups flour
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 eggs
  • 3/4 cup oil
  • 1 cup nuts
  • 1 (20 oz.) can crushed pineapple, undrained

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix all ingredients thoroughly.
  2. Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9 x 13-inch pan.
  3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour until golden and cooked through.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, sift the flour before measuring. You can substitute the oil with unsweetened applesauce for a healthier version. If you prefer a nut-free cake, simply omit the nuts or replace them with chocolate chips for added sweetness. Make sure to mix the batter just until combined to avoid overworking the flour, which can make the cake dense.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Pineapple Cowboy Cake warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a great choice for brunch or afternoon gatherings. Consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad for a light, refreshing contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Pineapple Cowboy Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This cake also freezes well; wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Pineapple Cowboy Cake contains roughly 529 calories, with 3g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 700mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).

529 kcal 26% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.3g 7% DV
Total Fat 44.8g 57% DV
Carbs 31.7g 12% DV
Fiber 2.3g 8% DV
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 700mg 30% DV
Potassium 240.6mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 0.5mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.8mcg
Vitamin C 16mg 18% DV
Calcium 21.6mg 2% DV
Iron 1.1mg 6% DV
Contains Egg 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 fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to finely crush it and include the juice to maintain moisture. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious. Just be cautious about adjusting the sugar if your fresh pineapple is sweeter than the canned variety.

What can I do if the cake is too dense?

A dense cake can result from overmixing the batter or too much flour. Ensure you're measuring flour correctly and mix just until combined. If the cake is already baked, you can serve it with a drizzle of glaze or a scoop of ice cream to enhance its moisture and flavor.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when it turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, you can cover the cake loosely with foil to prevent burning.

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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