Category: Recipes

  • This is my hubby’s kryptonite; he just can’t resist asking for more

    This is my hubby’s kryptonite; he just can’t resist asking for more

    Today, I’m thrilled to share a twist on a classic favorite with my Tzatziki Chicken Salad recipe. This dish marries the creamy, tangy flavors of tzatziki, a beloved Greek sauce, with the refreshing crunch of a traditional chicken salad. It’s a perfect blend for a quick lunch or a light dinner, especially if you’re looking for something satisfying yet straightforward. Whether you’re craving a cool dish on a warm day or simply looking for new ways to jazz up your chicken salad routine, this recipe is a delightful choice.
    This tzatziki chicken salad is wonderfully versatile. Serve it atop a bed of crisp greens, like romaine or arugula, for a refreshing salad. It’s also fantastic scooped onto a warm pita bread or rolled into a wrap for a satisfying handheld meal. For a low-carb option, you can fill endive cups with the salad for a crunchy, elegant appetizer. Pairing this dish with a light, citrusy white wine or a chilled iced tea would complement the flavors beautifully.
    Tzatziki Chicken Salad
    Servings: 4

    Ingredients

    2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
    1 cup Greek yogurt
    1 cucumber, seeded and finely diced
    2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
    2 tablespoons lemon juice
    1 clove garlic, minced
    Salt and pepper to taste
    1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
    1/4 cup Kalamata olives, chopped (optional)
    Directions
    1. In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, cucumber, dill, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    2. Add the shredded chicken to the bowl and mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the tzatziki mixture.

    3. Stir in the red onion and Kalamata olives, if using, until everything is thoroughly combined.
    4. Let the chicken salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
    5. Serve chilled, with your choice of sides or in a wrap or pita bread.
    Variations & Tips
    This recipe is truly a canvas for your culinary creativity. For a zestier flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. If you’re a fan of herbs, try incorporating some chopped fresh mint or parsley for additional freshness. For those who prefer a creamier texture, fold in a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise or sour cream to the yogurt mixture. Veggie lovers might enjoy adding chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots for extra crunch and color.

  • Banana Split Milkshakes

    Banana Split Milkshakes

    1f34c Ingredients 1f34c
    – 2 large bananas, sliced
    – 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
    – 2 scoops chocolate ice cream
    – 2 scoops strawberry ice cream
    – 1 cup milk
    – 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
    – 1/4 cup strawberry syrup
    – 1/4 cup caramel syrup
    – Whipped cream
    – Fresh raspberries
    – Fresh banana slices
    – Chocolate shavings or curls
    – Mini chocolate brownies or chocolate cookies
    – Chopped nuts (optional)
    – Maraschino cherries
    – Waffle cone pieces or wafers for garnish
    – Powdered sugar for dusting
    1f34c Directions 1f34c
    1. **Blend the Milkshake:** In a blender, combine the sliced bananas, vanilla ice cream, chocolate ice cream, strawberry ice cream, and milk. Blend until smooth and creamy.
    2. **Prepare the Glass:** Drizzle chocolate syrup, strawberry syrup, and caramel syrup around the inside of a tall glass.
    3. **Fill the Glass:** Pour the milkshake mixture into the glass, filling it about three-quarters full.
    4. **Add Whipped Cream:** Top the milkshake with a generous amount of whipped cream.
    5. **Garnish:** Garnish the whipped cream with fresh raspberries, banana slices, chocolate shavings, mini brownies or cookies, and chopped nuts if desired.
    6. **Final Touches:** Add a maraschino cherry on top and stick waffle cone pieces or wafers into the whipped cream. Dust with powdered sugar for a final touch.
    Enjoy your delicious and indulgent Banana Split Milkshake!1f34c1f34c
  • Potato Fritters

    Potato Fritters

    Potato fritters are a simple but rich culinary experience, perfectly combining the crunchy exterior and the soft interior. This recipe, with its creamy mozzarella cheese center, promises to be an essential delight for all lovers of gourmet and authentic cuisine. Whether for a friendly aperitif, a family meal, or even for a little solitary pleasure, these fritters have it all!
    The art of making potato fritters is all about balancing flavors and mastering texture. Mashed potatoes form the base of this recipe, blending harmoniously with the refined flavors of Parmesan and nutmeg, and the fresh aroma of chopped parsley. Next comes the crispy coating of eggs and breadcrumbs, which adds a touch of crunch and goldenness to the dish.
    But the real treasure of this recipe is inside each doughnut: a generous heart of mozzarella cheese that melts deliciously when cooked. This creates an incomparable taste sensation, a blend of textures and flavors that will delight the most demanding palates. It is this fusion of the crunchy exterior and the melting interior that makes potato doughnuts such a beloved culinary specialty.
    Making this recipe is an exciting journey through textures and flavors. Every step, from making the mash to baking the doughnuts, is a rewarding culinary adventure. And the moment you bite into a warm doughnut, feeling the mozzarella cheese stretch into delicious strands, you’ll understand why this recipe is so special.
    So, we invite you to discover and enjoy this exceptional recipe for potato fritters. Follow each step carefully and dive into the wonderful world of crispy and melting delights. It is a promise of gastronomic pleasure that will, for sure, awaken your senses and delight your guests. So, put on your aprons and get ready to cook and enjoy unforgettable potato fritters!
    Ingredients :
    1 kg boiled potatoes
    2 egg yolks
    ½ teaspoon nutmeg
    Salt and pepper to taste
    100 g grated parmesan
    3 tablespoons chopped parsley
    2 eggs
    Breadcrumbs (amount needed to coat)
    1 block of mozzarella cheese

    Preparation :

    Preparation of Potatoes :
    Peel and mash the boiled potatoes until smooth.
    Mixing the Puree :
    In a bowl, mix the mashed potatoes with the egg yolks, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, nutmeg, salt and pepper. Mix well until you get a smooth dough.

    Preparation of the Cheese :
    Cut the block of mozzarella into rectangles.
    Formation of Donuts :
    Take a few spoonfuls of mashed potatoes and form a patty. Place a rectangle of cheese in the center of the patty and wrap it completely with the mashed potatoes, forming a doughnut.
    Coating the Donuts :
    Beat the remaining 2 eggs in a bowl.
    Dip each donut in beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumbs.
    Cooking :
    Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
    Fry the donuts for 6-7 minutes or until evenly golden brown, turning occasionally for even cooking.
    Service :
    Drain the donuts on paper towels and serve hot.
    Advice :
    These donuts are ideal served with tomato sauce or garlic sauce.
    Serve them warm to enjoy the soft cheese inside.

  • Japanese Cotton Cheesecake Recipe

    Japanese Cotton Cheesecake Recipe

    50 grams of butter that is unsalted

    100 ml of milk

    60 grams of cake flour

    20 grams of cornflour

    the separation of six big eggs

    150 grams of granulated sugar

    1 teaspoon of lemon juice

    a quarter of a teaspoon of cream of tartar (optional)

    to be used for dusting, powdered sugar

    Details to follow:

    Advance planning:

    Preheat your oven to 320 degrees Fahrenheit (160 degrees Celsius).

    Using parchment paper, line the bottom of a round cake pan that is 8 inches in diameter. Butter should be used to gently grease the sides.

    To make the cream cheese mixture, combine the cream cheese, butter, and milk in a dish that can withstand high temperatures.

    The bowl should be placed over a pot of water that is simmering (a double boiler), and the mixture should be heated while being stirred regularly until it is completely smooth and fully mixed. Take it off the heat and let it to cool down a little bit.

    For the dry ingredients, combine the cornflour and cake flour and sift them together. Put away for later.

    To prepare the egg yolks, place them in a large mixing basin and whisk them until they become light and pale.

    After allowing the cream cheese mixture to somewhat cool, add it to the egg yolks and whisk it until it is completely incorporated.

    Until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps, gradually include the flours that have been sifted.

    The egg whites should be beaten in a separate, clean mixing dish until they turn into a frothy consistency. After adding the cream of tartar (if you are using it), continue beating the mixture until soft peaks emerge.

    While continuing to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, gradually add the sugar to the egg whites, a little at a time.

    In order to combine the ingredients, carefully incorporate the egg white mixture into the cream cheese batter in three separate additions, taking care not to deflate the batter completely.

    Pour the batter into the cake pan that has been prepped for baking.

    Remove any air bubbles that may be present by softly tapping the pan on the counter.

    It is necessary to make a water bath by placing the cake pan inside of a bigger baking pan and then filling the larger pan with boiling water.

    Bake for about sixty to seventy minutes in an oven that has been preheated, or until the bottom is golden brown and a skewer that has been pushed into the middle comes out clean.

    When it comes to cooling, be sure to turn off the oven and keep the cake inside with the door slightly ajar for around fifteen minutes. This will avoid any rapid swings in temperature.

    After taking the cake out of the oven from the water bath, place it on a wire rack and allow it to cool fully in the pan by itself.

    The cake should be removed from the pan with caution after it has cooled.

    Before serving, sprinkle powdered sugar over the top of the cheesecake to provide a finishing touch.

    Enjoy your fluffy Japanese cotton cheesecake by slicing it and eating it!

    Enjoy !

     

  • Tropical Strawberry Mango Smoothie

    Tropical Strawberry Mango Smoothie

    Ingredients:

    1 cup fresh strawberries

    1 cup mango chunks (fresh or frozen)

    1/2 banana

    1/2 cup Greek yogurt

    1/2 cup coconut water

    1 tablespoon honey (optional)

    Ice cubes (optional)

    Enjoy !!

  • Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

    Caramel Apple Dessert Cups

    Ingredients:

    – 2 large apples, diced
    – 1 cup (240ml) caramel sauce
    – 1 cup (240ml) whipped cream
    – 1/2 cup (60g) granola
    – 1 tsp cinnamon

    Instructions:

    1. In a bowl, mix diced apples with cinnamon.
    2. Layer diced apples at the bottom of dessert cups.
    3. Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples.
    4. Add a layer of granola.
    5. Top with whipped cream and an extra drizzle of caramel before serving.

    Notes:

    Feel free to use your favorite apples for different flavors. You can also add nuts or chocolate chips for extra crunch!

    Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 15 mins | Servings: 4

  • Here is a recipe for Angel Chicken Rice Casserole that you can make

    Here is a recipe for Angel Chicken Rice Casserole that you can make

    List of ingredients:

    4 chicken breasts without bones or skin

    1 packet of powdered Italian salad dressing mix

    1 can of mushroom soup (10.75 ounces)

    1/2 cup of chicken broth 4 ounces of softened cream cheese

    1/2 cup of sour cream

    2 cups of cooked rice, either white or brown.

    1/4 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons of butter

    1 tablespoon of olive oil

    1 cup of grated mozzarella cheese

    1/4 teaspoon of black pepper 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder

    Fresh parsley, if desired, for decoration.

    Directions:

    Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before using it.

    Cook the chicken: In a big pan, melt the butter and olive oil on medium heat. Put the chicken breasts in the pan with black pepper and garlic powder. Cook each side for 5-7 minutes until they are brown but not completely cooked. Take the chicken out of the pan and place it to the side.

    Make the sauce: In the same pan, put the Italian dressing mix, mushroom soup, chicken broth, cheese, and sour cream. Mix everything well until it is smooth and creamy. Let it cook gently for 3-5 minutes.

    Make Casserole: In a big baking dish (9×13 inches), put the cooked rice in an even layer at the bottom. Put the chicken breasts on the rice. Put the sauce on top of the chicken and rice, making sure everything is well coated.

    Put cheese on top: Spread Parmesan and mozzarella cheese on the casserole.

    Cook the casserole covered with foil in the oven for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F) and the casserole is bubbling.

    Serve: Add some fresh parsley on top if you like. Enjoy your Angel Chicken Rice Casserole hot!

    Tell me how it goes!

  • These are my most popular bars. I usually make at least 500 of these at parties

    These are my most popular bars. I usually make at least 500 of these at parties

    Ingredients

    Ingredient Quantity
    Miniature marshmallows 2 packages
    Butter, melted 2 tablespoons
    White chocolate chips 2 packages
    Red and green gumdrops 1 ½ cups

    Preparation

    1. Prepare the Marshmallow Mixture
    Step 1: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the miniature marshmallows and melted butter.
    Step 2: Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the marshmallows are soft and puffy.
    Step 3: Stir the mixture until smooth and well combined.
    2. Melt the White Chocolate
    Step 1: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals.
    Step 2: Stir between each interval until the white chocolate is smooth and creamy.
    3. Combine the Ingredients
    Step 1: Pour the melted white chocolate over the marshmallow mixture.
    Step 2: Stir until evenly combined. The mixture should be thick and sticky.
    4. Add the Gumdrop Candy
    Step 1: Gently fold in the red and green gumdrops until they are evenly distributed throughout the nougat mixture.
    5. Form the Bars
    Step 1: Line a baking dish or tray with parchment paper or aluminum foil, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
    Step 2: Transfer the nougat mixture to the prepared dish.
    Step 3: Press it into an even layer using a spatula or your hands.
    6. Chill and Set
    Step 1: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or until the nougat mixture is firm and set.
    7. Slice and Serve
    Step 1: Once set, remove the nougat mixture from the refrigerator.
    Step 2: Use the overhanging parchment paper or foil to lift it out of the dish.
    Step 3: Place it on a cutting board and slice it into bars or squares using a sharp knife.
    8. Enjoy the Sweet Treats
    Step 1: Serve the Four-Ingredient Nougat Bars on a platter.
    Step 2: Store them in an airtight container until ready to enjoy.

  • Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze

    Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze

    This Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze is so delicious! Just one bite of this cake will have you baking it over and over again!

    Ingredients

    • 1 1/2 cups cooking oil
    • 2 cups sugar
    • 4 Eggs
    • 3 cups all purpose flour
    • 1 tsp baking soda
    • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
    • 1 tsp salt
    • 2 tsps vanilla
    • 3 1/2 cups Granny Smith apples, approximately 3-4 apples, peeled, chopped in small pieces
    • 1 cup pecans, chopped small

    Caramel Glaze

    • 3/4 cups butter 1 1/2 sticks
    • 1 cup light brown sugar
    • 1/4 cup milk
    • 1 tsp vanilla

    How To Make Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze

    • Preheat oven to 325°
    • In a large mixing bowl, add oil, sugar and eggs, mix until nice and creamy.
    • In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt. Add to large bowl. Mix well.
    • Add vanilla, mix well.
    • Stir in apples and pecans.
    • Pour into generously greased and floured tube pan (you can use two loaf pans in place of a tube pan).
    • Bake at 325° for approximately 1 hour. Check using a tooth pick at about 50 minutes, and if it comes out clean, then your cake is done. If using the loaf pans, make sure to check it at about 50 minutes as well.

    Making the glaze

    • In a small pan, melt butter over low heat.
    • Stir in brown sugar and milk.
    • Bring to a boil over low heat, then reduce to a simmer, stirring constantly.
    • Let boil for 10 minutes, continue stirring.
    • Remove from heat and add vanilla. Stir. Let cool.
    • Once caramel glaze has cooled a bit, pour over the top of cake.
  • Easy Sausage Morning Muffins: A Savory Start to Your Day

    Easy Sausage Morning Muffins: A Savory Start to Your Day

    If you’re looking for a quick, hearty breakfast that’s perfect for busy mornings, look no further than Easy Sausage Morning Muffins. These savory muffins are packed with flavorful sausage, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese, all baked into a portable, grab-and-go package. Perfect for meal prep, these muffins can be made ahead and enjoyed throughout the week, making them an excellent choice for those hectic mornings when you need something delicious and satisfying on the run.

    Easy Sausage Morning Muffins are a delightful way to kick off your morning with a hearty, savory bite that’s both satisfying and convenient. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for a comforting breakfast that can be enjoyed at any time of day, these muffins are a great choice. So, grab your muffin tin and enjoy this delicious twist on a classic breakfast!

    Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping breakfast for the week, or just looking for a new way to enjoy your favorite breakfast flavors, these sausage muffins are a winning choice. Let’s dive into how to make these tasty breakfast bites!

    Ingredients

    • 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
    • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
    • 6 large eggs
    • ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • ½ teaspoon black pepper
    • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
    • ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
    • Chopped green onions or fresh herbs, for garnish (optional)

    INSTRUCTIONS:

    1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
    2. Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.
    3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
    4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, stirring until just combined.
    5. Add Sausage and Cheese: Fold the cooked sausage and shredded cheese into the batter until evenly distributed.
    6. Spoon into Muffin Tin: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
    7. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    8. Cool and Serve: Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh herbs if desired.

    Tips for Perfect Sausage Morning Muffins

    • Choose Your Sausage Wisely: Use your favorite breakfast sausage, whether it’s pork, turkey, or a vegetarian option. For extra heat, try spicy sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
    • Customize the Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but you can use mozzarella, pepper jack, or even feta for a different flavor profile.
    • Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter until just combined to keep the muffins tender. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
    • Make It Ahead: These muffins freeze beautifully. Just cool them completely, wrap individually, and freeze. To reheat, microwave for 30-60 seconds or warm in the oven.

    Variations to Try

    • Add Veggies: Mix in sautéed spinach, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms for an extra serving of veggies.
    • Swap the Sausage: Try using bacon, ham, or even cooked ground turkey for a leaner option.
    • Herb It Up: Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives for a burst of flavor and freshness.

    Serving Suggestions

    These Easy Sausage Morning Muffins are perfect on their own, but you can serve them with a side of fresh fruit, a dollop of sour cream, or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick. Pair with a cup of coffee or a smoothie for a complete, balanced breakfast.

  • Fried Chicken

    Fried Chicken

    Ingredients:
    Chicken pieces
    1 cup of milk
    2 large eggs, beaten
    2 cups all-purpose flour
    2 tsp black pepper
    2 tsp garlic powder
    2 tsp paprika
    1 tsp salt
    1 tsp poultry seasoning

    Instructions:
    In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and poultry seasoning.
    In a separate bowl, mix the beaten eggs with milk and set aside.
    Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, then dip them into the egg mixture, and again coat them in the flour mixture.
    Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer to the appropriate temperature, then fry the chicken, browning it on all sides.
    Once cooked, drain the chicken on paper towels. Serve it hot with your favorite hot sauce.

  • Hashbrown Chicken Casserole

    Hashbrown Chicken Casserole

    This Chicken Hashbrown Casserole Recipe is delicious! It is so creamy and delicious. Plus, the crunchy topping is amazing! You can throw this together in little to no time. It is the perfect recipe for busy nights.

    This chicken hashbrown casserole is a regular dinner staple in our home. It’s made even faster when you use a rotisserie chicken! This recipe is creamy, loaded with flavor, and always a winner with my family.

    It’s also one of my go-recipes when we’re having company. There’s really no need to get fancy when you’re having guests over.

    Ingredients

    • 2 lb. Southern style frozen hashbrowns
    • 2 C. Shredded cheddar cheese
    • 1 C. Frozen peas and carrots
    • 2 C. Sour cream
    • ½ C. Canned corn drained
    • 1 Can Cream of chicken soup
    • 3 C. Shredded chicken
    • ⅓ C. Milk
    • 2 C. Bread crumbs
    • Salt and pepper to taste

    Preparation

    • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
    • Add the hashbrowns to the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish.
    • Mix together all of the remaining ingredients except for the bread crumbs in a large bowl until well combined.
    • Layer the mixture on top of the hashbrowns.
    • Top the casserole with the bread crumbs and bake for 1 hour.
    • Enjoy!

    Nutrition

    Calories: 516kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 17g | Cholesterol: 67mg | Sodium: 948mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g

  • Discover this Vinegar Trick to Get Crispy French Fries

    Discover this Vinegar Trick to Get Crispy French Fries

    Transform your kitchen into a haven for fry lovers with this foolproof method for creating the ultimate fries. Achieving that ideal balance of a crispy exterior and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior can be challenging, but our tips and tricks will ensure your fries are not only delicious but also not overly greasy. From choosing the right potato variety to mastering the cooking technique, here’s everything you need to know to make irresistible fries.

    Ingredients

    1 kg of potatoes

    Sunflower oil, as needed

    Cold water, as needed

    2 tsp white vinegar

    Preparation

    Begin by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into approximately 1 cm thick sticks. If you prefer, you can leave the skins on, but ensure they are thoroughly washed.

    Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl and cover them with water.

    Stir in two tablespoons of white vinegar. This step is crucial for crispiness.

    Let the potatoes rest in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes, though an hour is ideal.

    After resting, remove the potatoes from the water and dry them thoroughly. You can use a kitchen towel or paper napkins for this.

    Heat sunflower oil in a pot or a suitable frying pan.

    Fry the potatoes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.

  • Pickled Beets

    Pickled Beets

    Ingredients
    8 medium fresh beets
    1 cup vinegar
    1/2 cup sugar
    1-1/2 teaspoons whole cloves
    1-1/2 teaspoons whole allspice
    1/2 teaspoon salt

    Directions
    Scrub beets and trim tops to 1 in. Place in a Dutch oven; add water to cover. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, 25-30 minutes or until tender. Remove from water; cool. Peel beets and slice; place in a bowl and set aside.

    In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, cloves, allspice and salt. Bring to a boil; boil 5 minutes. Pour over beets. Refrigerate at least 1 hour. Drain before serving.
    Servings:

  • Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake

    Creamy Pineapple Pecan Cake

    Ingredients:
    2 cups all-purpose flour
    2 cups granulated sugar
    1 teaspoon baking soda
    2 large eggs
    1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, undrained
    1 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for topping)
    1 cup shredded coconut (optional)
    Cream Cheese Frosting:
    8 ounces cream cheese, softened
    1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
    4 cups powdered sugar
    1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    Directions:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
    In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and baking soda. Mix well.
    Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients, and then stir in the crushed pineapple with its juice. Mix until well combined.
    Fold in the chopped pecans and shredded coconut, if using.
    Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
    For the Frosting:
    In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
    Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
    Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
    Assembly:
    Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top.
    Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
    Sprinkle extra chopped pecans on top of the cake for decoration.
    Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the frosting to set.
    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
    Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 12 servings