Out of This World Cake: A Celestial Delight from My Kitchen

I remember the first time I encountered this cake. It wasn’t in a fancy bakery or a meticulously styled cookbook, but scribbled on a stained index card tucked into my grandmother’s well-worn recipe binder. She’d often make it for family gatherings, and the aroma alone was enough to draw everyone into the kitchen, a sweet, comforting cloud that promised pure indulgence. The magic, for me, lay in its deceptive simplicity and the way it could vanish from the pan with astonishing speed – a testament to its irresistible nature. This is a recipe I have had for years, and though I don’t make it often, when I do, I know I’ll likely eat the whole thing.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (plus cooling)
• Servings: 16
• Yield: 1 (9×13 inch) cake
• Dietary Type: Not specified

Ingredients

This recipe calls for a delightful medley of pantry staples and a few special additions that come together to create something truly extraordinary.

For the Cake:

• 1 (13 ounce) package graham cracker crumbs
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup margarine, melted
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 8 ounces coconut
• 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup margarine, softened
• 1 lb powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment Needed

To bring this celestial creation to life, you’ll want to have the following on hand:

• A 9 x 13 inch baking pan
• A large mixing bowl
• An electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
• A rubber spatula or offset spatula for frosting
• Measuring cups and spoons
• An oven
• A cooling rack

Instructions

The beauty of this “Out of This World Cake” lies in its straightforward preparation, making it accessible even for novice bakers. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be rewarded with a cake that truly lives up to its name.

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure your oven rack is in the center position.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the cake ingredients except the crushed pineapple. This includes the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted margarine, eggs, milk, baking powder, chopped pecans, and coconut.
3. Using your electric mixer, beat these ingredients together on medium speed until they are well blended. You’re looking for a smooth, cohesive batter.
4. Carefully pour the batter into your prepared 9 x 13 inch baking pan. Spread it evenly to ensure consistent baking.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
6. Once the 45 minutes have elapsed, remove the cake from the oven.
7. While the cake is still hot, pour the entire can of crushed pineapple, undrained, evenly over the top of the hot cake.
8. Allow the pineapple to soak in thoroughly. This is a crucial step that infuses the cake with moisture and a delightful tropical tang.
9. Let the cake cool completely before proceeding with the frosting. Patience here is key for a perfectly frosted cake.
10. While the cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and softened margarine.
11. Beat these two ingredients together until they are smooth and creamy.
12. Gradually add the powdered sugar, about a cup at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
13. Stir in the vanilla extract.
14. Continue to beat the frosting until it reaches a smooth, spreading consistency. If it seems too thick, you can add a tiny bit more margarine or a tablespoon of milk at a time until it’s just right. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
15. Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
16. For an extra touch of texture and visual appeal, sprinkle the top of the frosted cake with a few additional chopped pecans, if desired.

Expert Tips & Tricks

To elevate your “Out of This World Cake” from delicious to truly divine, consider these seasoned chef insights:

• Room Temperature is Key: For the creamiest frosting, ensure your cream cheese and margarine are truly at room temperature. This means they should yield slightly to gentle pressure and be soft but not melted.
• Graham Cracker Perfection: If you prefer a finer crumb for the base, you can pulse the graham crackers in a food processor until they reach your desired consistency.
• Pineapple Power: The undrained crushed pineapple is essential for moisture and flavor. Don’t be tempted to drain it; the juice is part of what makes this cake so uniquely tender.
• Cooling is Crucial: Resist the urge to frost a warm cake! A warm cake will cause the frosting to melt and slide right off, leading to a messy, less appealing dessert. Ensure it’s completely cool to the touch.
• Pecan Ponderings: Toasting your pecans lightly before chopping can unlock a deeper, nuttier flavor. Just spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a 300°F oven for about 5-7 minutes, watching them closely to prevent burning.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This “Out of This World Cake” is a showstopper on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. To serve, simply cut into generous squares.

Leftovers can be stored at room temperature, tightly covered, for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors tend to meld and deepen beautifully overnight. If you wish to freeze it, wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutritional Information

Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving. Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	697.8 kcal
Calories from Fat
Total Fat	40.2 g	61 %
Saturated Fat	15.7 g	78 %
Cholesterol	70.6 mg	23 %
Sodium	458.1 mg	19 %
Total Carbohydrate	82.5 g	27 %
Dietary Fiber	3.9 g	15 %
Sugars	66.5 g	266 %
Protein	6.7 g	13 %

Variations & Substitutions

While this cake is wonderfully balanced as is, feel free to explore some delightful variations:

• Nut-Free Option: If you have nut allergies or simply don’t have pecans on hand, you can omit them entirely. The cake will still be rich and flavorful.
• Coconut Creativity: For a more intense coconut flavor, consider using sweetened shredded coconut, but be mindful of adjusting the overall sugar content.
• Citrus Twist: A tablespoon or two of fresh lemon or lime zest added to the cake batter can add a bright, zesty counterpoint to the sweetness.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: While this recipe is not inherently gluten-free, you could experiment with a gluten-free graham cracker crumb base. Keep in mind that texture might be slightly altered.

FAQs

Q: Why is it important to pour the pineapple over the cake while it’s still hot?
A: Pouring the undrained crushed pineapple over the hot cake allows it to absorb into the cake’s structure, infusing it with moisture and a unique flavor profile. If the cake is cool, the pineapple will sit on top rather than soaking in.

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: While fresh pineapple can be used, it contains more enzymes that can break down proteins and affect the cake’s texture. Canned crushed pineapple in juice is recommended for its consistent results and sweetness.

Q: My frosting is too runny, what can I do?
A: If your cream cheese frosting is too runny, gradually add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

Q: How long does the cake last?
A: This cake can be stored at room temperature, tightly covered, for up to 2 days, or refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bake the cake and let it cool completely the day before you plan to frost it. Store the unfrosted cake at room temperature, well-wrapped. Prepare the frosting just before serving for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

This “Out of This World Cake” is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most memorable desserts are born from the simplest of ingredients and straightforward methods. It’s a cake that evokes warmth, comfort, and a touch of pure joy. I encourage you to try this recipe, perhaps for your next family gathering or simply as a treat for yourself. Share your baking adventures with us, and let us know how this celestial delight graces your table. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a treasured part of your own culinary repertoire.