1-First Step: Get the fruit layer ready Drain the pineapple, but reserve 1/4 cup of the juice. In the cake pan, mix the crushed pineapple with the pecans if you are using them, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 3/4 teaspoons of sugar substitute, and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch. Spread the mixture evenly across the bottom of the pan. If you want the classic bright look, add maraschino cherry halves now.

2-Second Step: Cream the margarine and sweetener In a mixing bowl, beat 4 tablespoons of margarine with 1/2 cup sugar substitute until the mixture looks fluffy. This step helps give the cake a light texture. Then beat in the egg until everything is blended well.

3-Third Step: Mix the dry ingredients In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg. Stir these dry ingredients together so the spices and leavening are spread evenly through the batter.

4-Fourth Step: Add the wet and dry ingredients together Add the dry mixture to the margarine mixture in stages, alternating with 1/3 cup buttermilk, the reserved pineapple juice, and the remaining lemon juice. Mix just until the batter comes together. Do not overmix, or the cake can turn dense instead of soft.

5-Fifth Step: Assemble the cake Spread the batter gently over the pineapple mixture in the pan. Try to cover the fruit layer all the way to the edges so the top bakes evenly. The batter will be thick, so use a spoon or spatula to guide it into place.

6-Sixth Step: Bake until golden Bake at 350 degrees for about 25 minutes. Start checking at the 20-minute mark if your oven runs hot. The cake is ready when the top is browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7-Seventh Step: Flip and serve Let the cake rest in the pan for a few minutes, then invert it onto a serving plate. This helps the fruit topping settle in place without sticking. Serve warm or at room temperature. Both ways taste good, but warm cake gives you the softest texture and strongest pineapple aroma.