Description

There’s something truly magical about desserts that combine rich, tropical flavors with the warmth of comfort food. The Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake does just that, making it the perfect treat for almost any occasion. Whether you’re gathering with family on a cozy evening, celebrating a festive holiday, or simply enjoying a summer afternoon, this cake will become the centerpiece of your dessert table. Inspired by the flavors of the tropics, this cake brings together the sweetness of crushed pineapple and the creamy, nutty goodness of toasted pecans, all topped with a decadent coconut icing.

Ingredients

Scale

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

For the 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, toasted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and crushed pineapple (juices included).
Gradually mix in the flour, baking soda, and salt until just combined. Don’t overmix!
Pour the luscious batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth out the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the cake is baking, make the icing. In a saucepan over high heat, combine the evaporated milk, sugar, and butter.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the shredded coconut, toasted pecans, vanilla extract, and salt.
Once your cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the icing generously over the top, spreading it evenly.
Allow the cake to cool and let the icing set before slicing and serving.

Notes

Don’t overmix the batter to avoid a dense cake.
Toasting the pecans before adding them to the icing brings out their natural oils and enhances the flavor.
This cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Feel free to experiment with different nuts or add lime zest for a unique twist.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes