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Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or cake pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and baking soda. Mix well.
- Add the eggs, crushed pineapple (with the juice), coconut, and chopped pecans. Stir until everything is well combined. The batter will be thick and moist due to the pineapple juice.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue mixing until well incorporated.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, then fold in the whipped topping until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Step 5: Frost the Cake
- Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
- Garnish with extra chopped pecans or a sprinkle of shredded coconut, if desired.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature. Yum Yum Cake is best enjoyed with friends and family around the table.
Tips for the Perfect Yum Yum Cake
- Fresh vs. Canned Pineapple: While canned crushed pineapple is the traditional choice for this cake, you can use fresh pineapple if you prefer. Just make sure to finely chop it and use the juice for added moisture.
- Frosting Variations: If you’re not a fan of cream cheese frosting, you can try a simple buttercream or whipped cream topping. However, the tangy cream cheese frosting balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
- Make Ahead: Yum Yum Cake is an excellent make-ahead dessert. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for gatherings and holidays.
Conclusion
Yum Yum Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of Southern tradition, passed down through generations and cherished for its irresistible flavor and simplicity. The moist, fruity cake combined with the light, creamy frosting makes this old Southern favorite perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re introducing this classic to a new generation or simply indulging in a nostalgic treat, Yum Yum Cake is a dessert that truly lives up to its name. Serve it at your next gathering, and you’ll understand why this cake has stood the test of time!