Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan (or line with parchment paper for easier cleanup).

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a large bowl, whisk together:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1½ cups granulated sugar

  • 2 teaspoons baking soda

  • ½ teaspoon sea salt

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

• Make a well in the center of the dry mixture.

• Add:

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 full can (20 oz) of crushed pineapple with juice (do not drain)

Step 4: Combine

• Stir gently until all ingredients are just combined.

• Do not overmix — this helps keep the cake light and moist.

Step 5: Bake

• Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.

• Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool the Cake

• Remove the cake from the oven.

• Let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.

🧁 Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat:

   • 8 oz softened cream cheese

   • ½ cup unsalted butter
     until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

2. Gradually add:

   • 1¾ cups powdered sugar, sifted

3. Beat in:

   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

4. Once the cake is cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the surface.

5. Sprinkle with:

   • ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, but adds great texture)