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Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake Recipe

4.5 from 142 reviews

This Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert featuring crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and toasted pecans. The cake is tender and sweet, topped with a rich, creamy coconut-pecan icing that perfectly complements the tropical flavors. Ideal for celebrations or a comforting treat, this recipe blends classic American flavors with a tropical twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake:

  • 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, with juices
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Icing:

  • 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 2 cups shredded coconut
  • 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped and toasted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for baking the cake.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed pineapple with its juices, eggs, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix well until all the wet ingredients are thoroughly blended.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir gently until fully incorporated, being careful not to overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
  4. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and spread it out smoothly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating it is fully baked.
  5. Prepare Icing: While the cake is baking, prepare the icing. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk, unsalted butter, and sugar. Stir continuously until the butter melts and the mixture begins to simmer gently.
  6. Add Coconut and Pecans: Stir in the shredded coconut, toasted pecans, vanilla extract, and salt. Continue to stir and simmer the mixture gently for 5 to 7 minutes, until the icing thickens sufficiently.
  7. Apply Icing: When the cake is done baking and still warm, pour the coconut-pecan icing evenly over the top of the cake to allow it to set and soak in.
  8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. Serve the cake warm or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the batter to ensure the cake remains light and tender.
  • Toast the pecans before adding to the icing to enhance their flavor and crunch.
  • This cake can be served warm for a comforting dessert or at room temperature for easier slicing.
  • Store leftovers covered at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  • Toasting coconut before adding can add extra crunch and flavor, although optional.

Keywords: pineapple cake, coconut cake, pecan icing, tropical dessert, moist cake, American dessert, God Bless America Cake