When it comes to indulgent desserts that are sure to please, look no further than the classic preacher cake. These moist and flavorful treats have been a staple of Southern cuisine for generations, and it’s easy to see why. With their tender crumbs, rich flavors, and comforting aroma, it’s no wonder they’re often considered a go-to dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, and church functions.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the wonderful world of preacher cakes, sharing 18 deliciously simple recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic Southern preacher cake with pineapple to decadent preacher pound cake with vanilla bean glaze, there’s something for everyone in this collection of heavenly treats.
Classic Southern Preacher Cake with Pineapple
This moist and flavorful cake is a staple of Southern tradition, with the added sweetness of pineapple making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup crushed pineapple
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter and milk. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until smooth.
5. Stir in crushed pineapple.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cakes cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Moist Preacher Cake with Coconut and Pecans
This classic Southern dessert gets a tropical twist with the addition of coconut and pecans, creating a moist and flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add coconut and pecans; stir until well combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Preacher Sheet Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze
This classic sheet cake recipe is a staple for any gathering, and the addition of a rich brown sugar glaze takes it to the next level. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a delicious dessert in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before glazing.
Brown Sugar Glaze:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
– 1 tablespoon water
Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and whisk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake and serve.
Old-Fashioned Preacher Cake with Raisins and Walnuts
This moist and flavorful cake has been a staple in many Southern households for generations. With the addition of sweet raisins and crunchy walnuts, it’s a perfect treat to share with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In another bowl, combine sugar, butter, eggs, milk, raisins, and walnuts.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Preacher Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This rich and moist cake has been a staple of Southern comfort food for generations, earning its name from the humble, unsophisticated ingredients used to make it. A dollop of tangy cream cheese frosting adds a delightful contrast in flavor.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with cream cheese mixture (beat softened cream cheese and butter together, then add vanilla extract and powdered sugar).
Cooking Time: 1 hour
One-Bowl Preacher Cake with Cinnamon Spice
Warm up with a slice of nostalgic comfort: our One-Bowl Preacher Cake with Cinnamon Spice!
Ingredients:
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Preacher Pound Cake with Vanilla Bean Glaze
This moist and buttery pound cake is a classic Southern treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With the added richness of vanilla bean glaze, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup whole milk
For the glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in flour mixture.
3. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
4. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Let cool completely before glazing: Whisk together powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla bean seeds. Drizzle over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Chocolate Chip Preacher Cake for a Sweet Twist
This classic Southern dessert gets a decadent twist with the addition of dark chocolate chips and a hint of coffee. Moist, fluffy cake and crunchy pecans make this preacher-approved treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tbsp instant coffee powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add flour mixture and milk in alternating increments, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Stir in chocolate chips, pecans, and coffee powder (if using).
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Spiced Preacher Cake with Molasses and Nuts
This classic Southern cake is a staple of warmth and comfort, perfect for snuggling up on a chilly day. The combination of aromatic spices, rich molasses, and crunchy nuts creates a delightful flavor profile that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons blackstrap molasses
– 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in molasses and then gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients.
5. Fold in chopped nuts.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool before serving, dusting with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon-Zested Preacher Cake for a Tangy Kick
This moist and flavorful cake gets its name from its origins among Southern preachers, who would often serve it to their congregations as a sweet treat. The addition of lemon zest gives it a bright and citrusy kick that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool before serving, dusting with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Preacher Cake Loaf with Buttermilk Glaze
This classic Southern dessert is a staple at family gatherings and potlucks, thanks to its tender crumb and sweet buttermilk glaze. Our recipe simplifies the process, making it easy to bake this crowd-pleaser in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; pour into prepared loaf pan.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow to cool completely before drizzling with Buttermilk Glaze (recipe below).
Buttermilk Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons buttermilk
Mix until smooth; drizzle over cooled loaf.
Caramel Drizzle Preacher Cake with Sea Salt
Elevate your dessert game with this Caramel Drizzle Preacher Cake with Sea Salt recipe, featuring a rich caramel sauce and crunchy sea salt topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– Caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and whisk until combined.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract. Gradually add milk and mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cake to cool completely before drizzling with caramel sauce and sprinkling with sea salt.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Banana-Pineapple Preacher Cake for Extra Moistness
This classic Southern dessert gets a boost of flavor and moisture from the addition of ripe bananas and sweet pineapple. The result is a rich, velvety cake that’s perfect for potlucks or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup crushed pineapple
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Preacher Cake Muffins with Cinnamon Sugar Dusting
These moist and flavorful muffins are infused with the warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, making them a perfect treat for any time of day. The cinnamon sugar dusting adds an extra layer of crunch and sweetness to each bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, and milk.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow muffins to cool before dusting with cinnamon sugar (1/4 cup granulated sugar mixed with 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon).
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Preacher Cake for Fall Gatherings
As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, gather ’round with this classic Pumpkin Spice Preacher Cake recipe. Perfect for potlucks, harvest festivals, or cozy gatherings by the fire, this moist and flavorful cake is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour in melted butter and mix until smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Preacher Bundt Cake with Orange Glaze
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this moist and flavorful bundt cake, topped with a tangy orange glaze that’s sure to please. This classic Southern dessert is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a special treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 12-cup bundt pan and set aside.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; mix until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before glazing.
Orange Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whisk together until smooth; drizzle over cooled cake.
Gluten-Free Preacher Cake with Almond Flour
This moist and flavorful cake is a staple of traditional Southern cuisine, now made gluten-free using almond flour. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweetest sermon: 18 heavenly preacher cake recipes that are simply divine! From classic Southern styles to modern twists, these mouth-watering treats are sure to please even the most discerning palates. Try your hand at a moist coconut and pecan cake, or get cozy with an old-fashioned raisin and walnut cake. Whatever your flavor, there’s a preacher cake recipe here that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.