There’s something magical about a cake that brings everyone together, and that's exactly what Preacher Cake does! This delightful dessert combines the richness of buttermilk with the tropical flavors of crushed pineapple and shredded coconut, making it a quick crowd-pleaser for potlucks or family gatherings. With just 15 minutes of prep time, it’s perfect for those busy days when you crave something homemade but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s wonderfully moist, ensuring that every bite is pure comfort. So, are you ready to whip up this unforgettable treat that just might have you singing its praises? Let’s get baking!
Why is Preacher Cake So Irresistible?
Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this cake fits perfectly into your busy schedule, making homemade dessert accessible and hassle-free.
Tropical Twist: The combination of crushed pineapple and shredded coconut brings a unique flair, transforming ordinary cake into a tropical escape.
Moist and Flavorful: Buttermilk adds richness, ensuring each slice is delectably moist and bursting with flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for potlucks or family gatherings, this cake is sure to impress, becoming a beloved favorite at any event.
Satisfying Crunch: The chopped walnuts add a delightful texture, enhancing the overall eating experience while providing a satisfying crunch.
Embrace the comfort of home baking with this delightful Preacher Cake that’s as easy to make as it is to devour!
Preacher Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- All-purpose flour – This serves as the foundation of your Preacher Cake, giving it structure and texture.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake beautifully, balancing the tropical flavors.
- Buttermilk – Provides moisture and a creamy richness that makes the cake tender.
- Vegetable oil – Adds moisture and contributes to a soft crumb.
- Large eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients together and adding richness.
- Baking soda – This leavening agent helps the cake rise, keeping it light and airy.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances flavor, bringing out the sweetness of the other ingredients.
- Salt – A pinch boosts the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
For the Tropical Additions
- Shredded coconut – Introduces a delightful chewiness and a hint of the tropics to your cake.
- Crushed pineapple, drained – Adds natural sweetness and moisture; ensure it's well-drained for the best texture.
- Chopped walnuts – Provide a satisfying crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the cake's sweetness.
With this simple list, you're all set to create a heavenly Preacher Cake that will make your kitchen feel like home. Happy baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Preacher Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Preacher Cake starts baking in an optimal environment. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and equipment, including a large mixing bowl and a 9x13 inch baking pan, ready for greasing and flouring.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease and flour your 9x13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking. Use a paper towel or pastry brush to coat the bottom and sides with vegetable oil, then sprinkle flour all around, tapping out any excess. This simple preparation will help your scrumptious Preacher Cake come out easily after baking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, thoroughly combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Stir until well-mixed and smooth, visualizing the fluffy texture that will create the base of your Preacher Cake. This is the foundation of flavor you'll be building on.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Pour 1 cup of buttermilk, ½ cup of vegetable oil, and 3 large eggs into your flour mixture. Using a whisk or electric mixer, blend the ingredients until fully combined, aiming for a creamy consistency. Take a moment to enjoy the delightful aroma as the batter begins to come together.
Step 5: Incorporate Flavorful Additions
Now, gently fold in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 cup of shredded coconut, 1 cup of crushed pineapple (drained), and 1 cup of chopped walnuts. Mix until these tropical flavors are evenly distributed throughout the batter, transforming your Preacher Cake into a unique and delightful dessert.
Step 6: Pour the Batter
Carefully pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly, ensuring that the top is smooth and level. This will help your Preacher Cake to bake uniformly, achieving that lovely golden-brown color you’re looking for.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Place the baking pan into the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. Keep an eye on the cake as it rises, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 8: Cool the Cake
Once baked to perfection, remove the Preacher Cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This allows it to set properly, making it easier to remove from the pan. Enjoy the anticipation as the delicious aroma continues to fill your home.
How to Store and Freeze Preacher Cake
Room Temperature: Store leftover Preacher Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it moist and fresh without refrigeration.
Fridge: If you need to store the cake longer, place it in the fridge, where it can last for up to a week. Be sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled Preacher Cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. It will remain fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: To enjoy a slice of frozen Preacher Cake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it up in the microwave for a few seconds. This refreshens the cake, making it feel just-baked!
Expert Tips for Preacher Cake
Perfect Pan Prep: Ensure your baking pan is well-greased and floured to prevent sticking. A properly prepared pan makes all the difference in releasing your Preacher Cake without hassle.
Drain the Pineapple: To avoid a soggy cake, make sure to drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly. Excess moisture can lead to a dense texture instead of the delightful fluffiness you want.
Don’t Overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in a tough cake, so stir gently and stop when the batter is blended.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test the center of the cake; it should come out clean to ensure your Preacher Cake is fully baked. Adjust baking time based on your oven for consistent results.
Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the flavors to set and makes for neater slices.
Embrace these tips as you delight in making a Preacher Cake that will have loved ones cheering for seconds!
Make Ahead Options
These Preacher Cake preparations are a fantastic way to save time while still indulging in homemade goodness! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt) up to 3 days in advance; just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Additionally, the wet ingredients can be combined—whisking buttermilk, vegetable oil, and eggs—24 hours before baking, ensuring maximum flavor and texture. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the flavorful additions (vanilla, coconut, pineapple, and walnuts) to the mixture, pour it into the pan, and bake! This approach guarantees that your Preacher Cake remains just as delightful, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dessert with minimal effort on busy days.
What to Serve with Preacher Cake?
Create the perfect meal around your delightful Preacher Cake by adding these delicious accompaniments.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing sweetness that balances the cake's richness, boosting its vibrant flavors.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream enhances the cake's tropical notes while adding a creamy texture that is utterly irresistible.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over warm cake, creating an indulgent treat that is impossible to resist.
- Coconut Milk Beverage: This creamy drink echoes the coconut in the cake, creating a harmony of flavors that makes each bite even more delightful.
- Crushed Pineapple Topping: A sprinkle of fresh crushed pineapple adds a juicy burst, complementing the cake's tropical essence and keeping things interesting.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall experience of enjoying your Preacher Cake.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of chocolate sauce elevates the dessert, introducing a rich layer of decadence that pairs perfectly with coconut and pineapple.
- Toasted Nuts: Sprinkling toasted walnuts on top adds an appealing crunch, bringing out the nutty flavor while lending texture to every bite.
- Caramel Sauce: A drizzling of caramel adds richness and a sweet contrast to the cake, making it an even more decadent delight.
Preacher Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to customize this cake and make it your own with these fun twists and swaps!
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for a delightful alternative that everyone can enjoy.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with almond or coconut milk mixed with vinegar for a dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.
- Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts or swap them with sunflower seeds for a wholesome crunch without the nuts.
- Tropical Boost: Add mango or papaya chunks for an even more tropical flavor explosion that will transport you to paradise.
- Sugary Swaps: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor and a touch of caramel notes in every slice.
- Spice it Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm, inviting spiced flavor profile.
- Fruity Twist: Mix in a cup of blueberries or chopped strawberries for a vibrant fruit addition that brightens each bite.
- More Moisture: Increase the buttermilk to 1 ¼ cups for an ultra-moist cake that will leave everyone asking for your secret!
These variations invite creativity and allow you to tailor the Preacher Cake to your family’s tastes, making every bake an adventure in flavor!
Preacher Cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of crushed pineapple should I use?
I recommend using canned crushed pineapple that is well-drained. This helps prevent excess moisture from making your Preacher Cake soggy. Look for variations that don’t contain added sugars for a more balanced sweetness. If you prefer fresh pineapple, simply crush it and drain the juice thoroughly.
How should I store leftover Preacher Cake?
To keep your Preacher Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its life, refrigerate it, where it will stay good for up to a week. Just make sure to cover it securely to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze Preacher Cake? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Preacher Cake, first allow it to cool completely. Then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place it in the freezer and it will maintain its deliciousness for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it slightly in the microwave for the best results!
What if my cake turns out too dense?
If your Preacher Cake ends up dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Ensure you mix the ingredients just until combined and measure your flour accurately—too much can lead to a heavy cake. Using kitchen scales for precise measurements can help avoid this issue!
Is Preacher Cake suitable for special diets?
While Preacher Cake contains ingredients like eggs and nuts, making it unsuitable for some diets, it can be adapted for different needs! For a dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar. If you want to make it nut-free, simply omit the chopped walnuts. Just always be sure to check for any allergies related to these ingredients before serving.
Decadent Preacher Cake that Will Make You Feel at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour your 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- Add buttermilk, vegetable oil, and eggs; mix until combined.
- Fold in vanilla extract, shredded coconut, crushed pineapple, and walnuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes; check doneness with a toothpick.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before serving.
