There’s something truly comforting about vintage recipes that have been passed down through generations, and this Granny Cake is no exception. Originally popular in the mid-20th century, this moist and flavorful cake combines simple ingredients into a delightfully sweet dessert that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat. It’s a testament to the kind of homey, feel-good baking that brings memories and people together around the kitchen table.
Granny Cake is delightful on its own, but it can be made even more special with a few thoughtful accompaniments. For a richer experience, serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. During warmer months, a side of fresh berries complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully. For a cozy autumn or winter treat, a warm cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk makes the perfect pairing.
Granny Cake
Ingredients
1 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs, beaten
1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple with juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 cup pecans, chopped
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup evaporated milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs, beaten
1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple with juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 cup pecans, chopped
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup evaporated milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup granulated sugar, flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the beaten eggs, crushed pineapple along with its juice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until just mixed.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and chopped pecans. Sprinkle this mixture over the batter.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
7. While the cake is baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the butter, evaporated milk, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, for 5 minutes.
8. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
9. Pour the hot sauce over the cake as soon as it comes out of the oven.
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10. Let the cake cool slightly before serving.
Variations & Tips
For those who enjoy a bit of texture in their cakes, try adding 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the pecan and brown sugar topping mixture. Another delicious variation is to substitute walnut for pecans if you prefer a different nutty flavor. For a lower sugar version, reduce the granulated sugar in the batter by one fourth and use unsweetened pineapple instead.