There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the aroma of a freshly baked cake filling the kitchen, isn’t there? Today, I’m excited to share my version of Preacher Cake—a delightful dessert that effortlessly bridges the gap between comfort food and a crowd-pleaser. With its quick prep time and irresistible blend of coconut, pineapple, and nuts, this cake not only satisfies sweet cravings but also brings people together. Perfect for a casual family gathering or a potluck, it’s so easy to whip up that you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Are you ready to dive into this joyful recipe that’s sure to become a treasured part of your baking repertoire?
Why is Preacher Cake a Must-Try?
Nostalgic flavors: This cake combines classic ingredients like coconut and pineapple for a comforting taste that feels like home.
Quick and easy: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can have this beautiful cake in the oven, giving you more time to enjoy the company of friends and family.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, everyone will be asking for the recipe—making you the star of the event!
Versatile treat: Serve it as a dessert or enjoy it as a sweet breakfast treat alongside your morning coffee.
Moist and delicious: Thanks to buttermilk and pineapple, each bite is a melt-in-your-mouth experience you won’t forget!
Preacher Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• All-purpose flour – provides structure and helps the cake rise beautifully.
• Granulated sugar – sweetens the cake and helps create its moist texture.
• Buttermilk – adds a rich creaminess and helps to keep the cake moist.
• Large eggs – bind the ingredients together for a fluffy, light texture.
• Baking soda – leavens the cake, ensuring it rises perfectly.
• Vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor profile with a touch of warmth.
• Salt – balances the sweetness and heightens the cake’s flavors.
For the Mix-ins
• Shredded coconut – adds a delightful chewiness and tropical flavor.
• Crushed pineapple – infuses moisture and bursts of sweet fruitiness in every bite.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts – provides a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.
This Preacher Cake is not only a joy to bake but also a treat to share—perfect for all your sweet cravings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Preacher Cake
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, take a moment to grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with baking spray or a light coating of butter. This step ensures that your Preacher Cake will come out smoothly once it’s baked, without any sticky mess to deal with.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Blend these dry ingredients thoroughly until they are evenly mixed. This will ensure that each bite of your Preacher Cake has the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of buttermilk, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth and homogenous mixture. This creamy blend will be the perfect counterbalance to the dry mix, infusing your cake with moisture and flavor as it bakes.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined, being careful not to overmix. A few lumps are perfectly fine! This step ensures a light and fluffy Preacher Cake, ready to be elevated with delicious mix-ins.
Step 5: Add the Goodies
Now it’s time to fold in the scrumptious additions. Gently incorporate 1 cup of shredded coconut, 1 cup of crushed pineapple (drained), and 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter. These ingredients will bring delightful textures and flavors, making your Preacher Cake irresistibly tasty.
Step 6: Pour and Smooth
Carefully pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Ensure there are no large gaps or holes, as a uniform thickness helps the cake bake evenly. With this smooth layer, your Preacher Cake is on its way to becoming a golden-brown delight.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes; the cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The aroma will fill your kitchen, letting you know it’s almost time to enjoy your creation.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove your Preacher Cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This patience will ensure a better texture when you cut into it, allowing for clean, beautiful slices that are ready to impress!
Helpful Tricks for Preacher Cake
Avoid Overmixing: Stir the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy Preacher Cake.
Check for Moisture: Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well. Excess moisture can affect the cake's consistency and bake time.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and improves texture.
Bake Evenly: Place your dish in the center of the oven to ensure even heat distribution. This helps avoid underbaked centers or overly browned edges.
Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool fully before cutting. This prevents it from falling apart and ensures beautiful, clean slices.
How to Store and Freeze Preacher Cake
Room Temperature: Keep the Preacher Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. This helps maintain its moist texture and prevents it from drying out.
Fridge: If you want to keep it longer, store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Cover it tightly to avoid absorbing any fridge odors.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy leftover slices warm, pop them in the microwave for about 20 seconds, or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Indulging in Preacher Cake again will feel like a warm hug!
Preacher Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to transform this classic cake into your own delightful version to tickle your taste buds even further!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring your cake is just as delightful for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Non-Dairy: Use almond milk or coconut milk in place of buttermilk, and choose a dairy-free butter for greasing, keeping the recipe vegan-friendly!
- Tropical Twist: Add ½ cup of chopped mango or diced papaya to the batter for an exotic fruit explosion alongside the pineapple. This brings a whole new dimension of tropical delight.
- Coconut Cream: For an extra indulgent touch, replace the buttermilk with coconut cream. This deepens the coconut flavor and adds richness that’s hard to resist!
- Nuts Galore: Experiment with different nuts like macadamia nuts or hazelnuts instead of pecans or walnuts for a unique crunch. Each nut variety brings its unique flavor profile to the cake.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for warmth and depth. The spice balances beautifully with the sweetness, offering a surprising twist!
- Fruit Medley: Swap out the pineapple for fresh diced strawberries or blueberries to give the cake a refreshing berry flavor that brightens every slice. The mixture creates a colorful and tasty treat.
- Frosted Delight: Top with a cream cheese frosting or drizzle caramel sauce on after cooling for a decadent dessert that pleases any sweet tooth. It’s the perfect finishing touch to elevate your Preacher Cake!
Make Ahead Options
These Preacher Cake delights are perfect for busy home cooks who love to meal prep! You can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt) up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container, ensuring freshness. Additionally, the wet ingredients (buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla) can be pre-measured and refrigerated (up to 3 days) for quick mixing later. When you're ready to bake, simply combine the dry and wet mixtures, fold in the coconut, pineapple, and nuts, and pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. This will save you precious time, allowing you to whip up this delicious Preacher Cake with minimal effort, making it just as delightful as if you had baked it fresh!
What to Serve with Preacher Cake
Imagine gathering around the table, laughter mingling with the sweet aroma of your freshly baked Preacher Cake, as you complement it with delightful sides.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream enhances the cake's tropical flavors, adding a light and airy touch to every bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Pairing a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream with your cake creates a warm and cold experience that’s simply irresistible.
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Fresh Pineapple Slices: Juicy, fresh pineapple enhances the tropical notes, providing a refreshing contrast in taste and texture alongside the cake.
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Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut flakes sprinkled on top add an extra crunch and deepen the coconut flavor, enriching the cake’s already delightful profile.
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Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries, oranges, and melons brings brightness to the meal and balances the sweetness of the Preacher Cake beautifully.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: For a refreshing drink option, serve iced tea or homemade lemonade to cleanse the palate and elevate the dessert experience.
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Coffee or Espresso: Sipping on a cup of rich coffee elevates the cake's flavors, making for a comforting dessert moment perfect for any sweet craving.
Dive into this delightful unity of flavors and enjoy every moment as you celebrate with loved ones!
Preacher Cake Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select my ingredients for Preacher Cake?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, look for all-purpose flour that feels soft and powdery, with no lumps. Opt for granulated sugar that is free of clumps. For the buttermilk, check the expiration date—fresher is always better! Select ripe, sweet pineapples for the crushed pineapple, and make sure the coconut is fresh and unsweetened for a more natural taste. When it comes to nuts, lightly toasted pecans or walnuts will add an extra layer of flavor.
How should I store leftover Preacher Cake, and how long will it last?
If you have any leftover Preacher Cake, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 days, maintaining its delightful moist texture. If you want to extend its freshness, pop it in the fridge where it can last up to 7 days. Be sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors from the refrigerator.
Can I freeze Preacher Cake? If so, how?
Absolutely! Freezing Preacher Cake is a fantastic way to enjoy it later. To freeze, first allow the cake to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, making sure it’s well covered to prevent freezer burn. After that, wrap it again in aluminum foil for added protection. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a piece, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
What are some common troubleshooting tips for making Preacher Cake?
Very! If your cake doesn’t rise well, it could be due to old baking soda that has lost its potency. Make sure yours is fresh! If the cake is too dense, you might have overmixed the batter—remember, just stir until combined. If your Preacher Cake is dry, check that you didn’t overbake it; keep an eye on the timer during the last few minutes. When inserting a toothpick, it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
Are there any dietary considerations for Preacher Cake?
Yes, dietary considerations are essential! If you’re preparing this cake for someone with nut allergies, you can easily omit the chopped nuts or substitute them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch. If you’re trying to make a dairy-free version, use almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar as a buttermilk substitute. Always check for allergies with your guests to make sure everyone can enjoy this delicious dessert!
Indulgent Preacher Cake That Will Satisfy Your Sweet Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of buttermilk, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
- Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
- Fold in 1 cup of shredded coconut, 1 cup of crushed pineapple (drained), and 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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