Homemade Granny Cake

This Homemade Granny Cake is a nostalgic, old-fashioned dessert that bakes up unbelievably moist thanks to sweet crushed pineapple and a warm pour-over icing. It’s the kind of timeless recipe that shows up at potlucks, holiday gatherings, or Sunday dinners—and disappears fast. The crunchy pecan topping adds texture, while the brown sugar melts into a caramel-like layer as it bakes. Simple, comforting, and always crowd-pleasing, this cake is perfect whenever you’re craving a classic treat.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 (20-oz) can crushed pineapple with juice
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk sugar, flour, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
3. Mix in eggs and crushed pineapple (juice included) to form the batter.
4. Pour batter into the baking dish and sprinkle evenly with pecans and brown sugar.
5. Bake 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Meanwhile, bring evaporated milk, sugar, and butter to a boil in a saucepan.
7. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and pour the hot icing over the warm cake.
8. Let the cake cool to absorb the icing fully before slicing.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: ~380 kcal per serving | Servings: 12

Tips

• For deeper flavor, lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the top of the cake.
• Allow the cake to rest at least 20 minutes after icing so it sets and slices neatly.

FAQ

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Canned works best because the juice provides needed moisture, but you can use fresh if you add about 1/4 cup extra liquid.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes—it’s even better the next day after the icing fully soaks in.

Can I leave out the pecans?
Absolutely. Replace them with walnuts or omit for a nut-free cake.

Can it be frozen?
Yes. Freeze slices well-wrapped for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature.