Dessert

Granny Cake Recipe

Bymia larkspur January 8, 2026January 8, 2026

Introduction

Granny Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert featuring crushed pineapples and a rich, buttery icing. This classic treat combines a tender cake base with a sweet pecan topping and a luscious evaporated milk glaze that soaks right in. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a comforting homemade dessert.

A close-up image shows a piece of dessert served on a white plate with a textured edge. The dessert has two layers: the bottom layer is a moist, yellow cake with a light and fluffy texture, and the top layer is a sticky, gooey, dark golden brown topping that looks like it contains melted sugar and chopped nuts. A silver fork is holding a bite-sized portion of the dessert, showing the contrast between the soft cake and the rich topping. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 pineapples, with juice
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup pecans, chopped
1 cup evaporated milk
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350º F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, baking soda, and salt. Then mix in the eggs and crushed pineapples with their juice until well combined.
Step 3: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the chopped pecans and brown sugar evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 5: While the cake bakes, combine evaporated milk, sugar, and butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently.
Step 6: Remove the saucepan from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and immediately pour the hot icing evenly over the warm cake.
Step 7: Allow the cake to cool so it can absorb the icing fully. Once cooled, slice and serve.

Tips & Variations

Toast the pecans lightly before adding them on top to enhance their flavor and crunch.
For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or substitute with toasted coconut flakes.
Use fresh pineapple crushed in a food processor for a fresher taste if canned isn’t available.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.

Storage

Store leftover Granny Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm individual slices gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This helps bring back the moist, gooey texture of the icing.

How to Serve

The image shows a metal baking tray holding nine square pieces of a two-layer dessert bar. The bottom layer is light golden and dense, while the top layer is a thick, glossy, brown mixture with small nut pieces spread evenly throughout. One square in the bottom left corner is missing, revealing the distinct separation between the golden base and the darker, textured top. The tray is set on a white marbled surface with a blue and white checkered cloth peeking out from underneath the edge. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Granny Cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. Be sure your baking soda and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I prepare this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day ahead and prepare the icing just before serving. Pour the hot icing over the warm cake to allow it to soak in for best results.