Granny Cake

Sweet, nostalgic, and absolutely comforting, this Granny Cake is an old-fashioned Southern favorite that brings big flavor with simple pantry ingredients. Made with juicy crushed pineapple, brown sugar, and a warm coconut-pecan glaze poured over the top, it’s moist, rich, and full of charm—just like Grandma used to make. This easy sheet cake is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or any time you’re craving a down-home dessert.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Super Moist – Pineapple makes the cake ultra tender and juicy.
Easy to Make – No mixer required, just stir and bake.
Old-Fashioned Goodness – Sweet, buttery, and packed with Southern charm.
Great for Sharing – Bakes in a simple 9×13 pan and feeds a crowd.
Best with Glaze – The warm brown sugar glaze soaks in for amazing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional but recommended)

For the Glaze:

• ¾ cup evaporated milk
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or spoon
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Saucepan
• Spatula
• Oven mitts

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
2. Add eggs, pineapple (with juice), and vanilla.
3. Stir until just combined—do not overmix.
4. Pour batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 3: Add Topping

1. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top of the cake batter.
2. Top with chopped pecans and shredded coconut if using.
3. Gently press the topping into the batter with the back of a spoon.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

1. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

1. In a medium saucepan, combine evaporated milk, butter, and sugar.
2. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
3. Boil for 2–3 minutes until sugar is dissolved and glaze is slightly thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Step 6: Glaze the Cake

1. As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour the warm glaze evenly over the hot cake.
2. Let it soak in and cool for 15–20 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Granny Cake
Use Crushed Pineapple in Juice – Not syrup. The juice keeps the cake moist.
Don’t Drain the Pineapple – The liquid is key to the texture and flavor.
Pour Glaze While Cake Is Hot – It will absorb best and give that gooey finish.
Make It Ahead – This cake tastes even better the next day after soaking.
Customize It – Add chopped walnuts instead of pecans or skip the coconut if preferred.

Serving Suggestions
Warm with Ice Cream – Vanilla ice cream is the perfect complement.
With Coffee or Tea – A sweet bite with your favorite beverage.
Brunch Dessert – Serve it alongside other Southern classics.
Topped with Whipped Cream – A light topping to balance the sweetness.

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:
Room Temp: Cover tightly and store for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate: Store for up to 5 days for longer freshness.

Freezing:
Freeze: Cool completely, then wrap in foil and freeze whole or in slices for up to 2 months.
Thaw: Bring to room temp before serving, or reheat gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
   You can, but make sure to crush it well and add enough juice to total 20 oz.
2. Is this the same as a poke cake?
   Not quite, but the hot glaze poured over the baked cake gives a similar moist texture.
3. Can I make this without nuts?
   Absolutely—just leave out the pecans or substitute with seeds if needed.
4. What if I don’t like coconut?
   The coconut is optional! The cake is still amazing without it.
5. Can I reduce the sugar?
   You can cut the glaze sugar slightly, but the topping and cake rely on sweetness for flavor balance.

Final Thoughts
Granny Cake is the kind of dessert that brings back memories—sweet, moist, and full of comfort. With pineapple in every bite and a buttery glaze soaked into the cake, it’s hard to stop at just one slice. Whether you’re making it for Sunday dinner, the holidays, or just because, this cake is guaranteed to bring smiles and second helpings.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see your nostalgic baking creations.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Cuisine: Southern-American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 390 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 50g | Fat: 19g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 220mg

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