Texas Tornado Cake: A Sweet Southern Delight

Name: Texas Tornado Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1 ½ cups brown sugar; ¾ cup unsalted butter; ½ cup evaporated milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Texas Tornado Cake is a delightful dessert that beautifully blends moist cake and a rich, buttery glaze with the sweetness of crushed pineapple and the crunch of pecans. With its tender crumb and irresistible flavor, this cake is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply to enjoy at home with your loved ones. As it bakes, the heavenly aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to come and take a slice. This recipe is an ideal way to celebrate special occasions or simply indulge in a comforting treat.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and aids in achieving a tender crumb.
2 large eggs: Provides structure and moisture, making the cake rich and fluffy.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cake, giving it structure and stability.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Works as a leavening agent to help the cake rise.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained: Adds moisture and natural sweetness, creating a tropical flavor.
1 cup chopped pecans: Contributes a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the cake.
1 ½ cups brown sugar: Brings a deeper sweetness and helps create a rich glaze.
¾ cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the glaze.
½ cup evaporated milk: Enriches the glaze and gives it a creamy texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a warm vanilla note.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and eggs. Mix until well combined and creamy.
Add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until just combined.
Gently fold in the undrained crushed pineapple until evenly incorporated into the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the top.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the cake is baking, combine the brown sugar, unsalted butter, and evaporated milk in a saucepan. Bring it to a gentle boil, stirring frequently for 3-5 minutes to create a smooth glaze.
Once the glaze is ready, remove it from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
After removing the cake from the oven, pour the hot glaze evenly over the cake while it is still warm. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 50-60 minutes
Servings: Approximately 12
Calories: About 350 per slice

Tips, Storage & Variations

Ensure that the eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the unglazed cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; it will last for up to 3 months.
For a flavor twist, you can add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter or use walnuts instead of pecans.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Just make sure to crush it before adding it to the batter.

Q2: How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready.

Q3: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake stays moist and delicious, making it a great make-ahead dessert.

Q4: Is there a substitute for pecans?
Yes, you can use walnuts or omit the nuts entirely if you prefer a nut-free version.

Q5: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.

Q6: What should I serve with Texas Tornado Cake?
It pairs beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Conclusion

Texas Tornado Cake is a deliciously unique dessert that everyone will love. With its tropical flavors and rich glaze, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or family meal. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s a wonderful way to sweeten your day. Share your creations and enjoy every delicious bite!