This cake isn’t just simple to make; it embodies the essence of simplicity. The Do Nothing Cake boasts a delightful blend of crushed pineapple, which makes the cake moist and bursting with flavor. It’s a no-fuss recipe—perfect for those days when you’re short on time but still want to create something truly special. I remember the first time I decided to make this cake on my own. I was a little apprehensive about baking from scratch, but I soon realized the beauty of this recipe lies in its ease. It’s so straightforward, even my kids have made it a family ritual to help me whip it up on lazy Sunday afternoons.
What makes this cake truly stand out is the decadent icing. The combination of butter, sugar, evaporated milk, coconut, and nuts creates an irresistible topping that perfectly complements the cake’s fruity base. Every bite is a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, and the best part is, it all comes together in no time at all. It’s a cake that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, yet it delivers a flavor that rivals even the most elaborate of desserts.
So, the next time you’re in the mood to bake, why not try this Old Fashioned Do Nothing Cake? It’s a cake that invites you to gather around the table and savor moments with your loved ones. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a staple in our family’s recipe collection.
How to Make Old Fashioned Do Nothing Cake
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Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups of sugar
- 2 cups of flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp of baking soda
- 1 tsp of vanilla
- 16 ounces of undrained crushed pineapple
For the Icing:
- ½ cup of butter
- 1 cup of sugar
- ¾ cup of evaporated milk
- 1 cup of coconut
- 1 cup of nuts
- 1 tsp of vanilla
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the sugar, flour, eggs, baking soda, vanilla, and crushed pineapple. Stir all the ingredients together until well-mixed, ensuring there’s no dry flour left.
- Pour the batter into a greased 13×9-inch cake pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- For the icing, combine the butter, sugar, and evaporated milk in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the coconut, nuts, and vanilla. Mix well.
- Pour the icing over the cake while it’s still hot, spreading it evenly across the surface.
Creative Substitutions to Suit Your Taste
If you’re missing some ingredients, don’t worry! You can swap the crushed pineapple with grated apple or pear for a different fruit twist. Allergic to nuts? Try replacing them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for a nut-free version. If coconut isn’t your thing, you can omit it, or replace it with chopped dried fruits like raisins or apricots for added sweetness.
Best Ways to Store Leftover Do Nothing Cake
To keep your Old Fashioned Do Nothing Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you wish to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week, ensuring it’s well-covered to prevent it from drying out. You can also freeze individual slices for up to three months; just thaw them at room temperature for a quick treat later.
Perfect Pairings for Old Fashioned Do Nothing Cake
This cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate your dessert experience by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A hot cup of coffee or tea also makes a perfect companion, balancing the cake’s sweetness with a warm, comforting sip.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Old Fashioned Do Nothing Cake
For extra flavor, toast the nuts before adding them to the icing, which will enhance their nutty aroma. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking to ensure even cooking. Also, resist the temptation to overmix the batter; doing so can lead to a denser cake. Finally, icing the cake while it’s still warm helps it absorb the delicious topping, making every bite scrumptious.
Adding a Seasonal Spin to Old Fashioned Do Nothing Cake
In the summer, add fresh berries to the batter for a burst of seasonal flavor. Come autumn, consider incorporating a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note. During the winter holiday season, a sprinkle of ginger or a handful of cranberries can add festive flair. In spring, try adding zest from a fresh lemon or orange for a bright, citrusy twist.
FAQs:
What makes this cake “do nothing”?
The name “Do Nothing Cake” comes from its incredibly simple preparation process. You mix all the ingredients in one bowl, pour them into a pan, and bake—no complicated steps or special techniques are required, making it perfect for busy or novice bakers.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this cake gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add a teaspoon yourself to mimic the texture of gluten.
How can I make this cake vegan?
To make this cake vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg). Use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk, and a vegan butter substitute for the icing.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
While canned pineapple is typically used for its convenience and moisture, you can use fresh pineapple if you crush it thoroughly and include the juices. This ensures the cake remains moist. Adjust the sugar if your fresh pineapple is particularly sweet.
Is it necessary to ice the cake while it’s still hot?
Icing the cake while it’s hot is recommended as it allows the cake to soak up the icing flavors, creating a moist and flavorful layer. However, if you prefer your icing more as a topping, you can let the cake cool slightly before icing.
What types of nuts work best for this cake?
Traditionally, pecans or walnuts are used in this recipe for their rich, buttery flavor. However, feel free to experiment with other nuts like almonds or macadamias. Just remember to chop them finely to ensure even distribution throughout the icing.
Old Fashioned Do Nothing Cake
Equipment
- 13x9 inch cake pan
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 cups flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 16 ounces crushed pineapple undrained
For the Icing:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup coconut
- 1 cup nuts
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Start by gathering all necessary ingredients.
For the Cake:
- In a mixing bowl, combine sugar, flour, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, and crushed pineapple. Stir well until the mixture is thoroughly blended.
- Pour the batter into a 13x9 inch baking pan and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
For the Icing:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, mix the butter, sugar, and evaporated milk. Cook for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and mix in coconut, nuts, and vanilla extract. Immediately ice the cake while it is still warm for best results.
