Name: Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American Southern
Ingredients: 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; 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

Jump to Recipe

If you love vibrant, tropical flavors and a cake that feels like a celebration with each bite, then the Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake is your new best friend in the kitchen. This delightful dessert combines juicy crushed pineapple, rich coconut, and toasted pecans in a moist, tender cake topped with a luscious, gooey coconut-pecan icing that will effortlessly steal the show at any gathering. Every spoonful bursts with just the right balance of sweet, nutty, and tropical goodness, making this cake an absolute crowd-pleaser you’ll be eager to bake again and again.

Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe blends simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create big flavor and fascinating texture. Each component plays an essential role—from the moistening juices of pineapple to the signature crunch of toasted pecans—bringing harmony to the cake’s tropical charm.

Crushed pineapple with juices (20 oz): Adds natural sweetness and moisture, giving the cake that juicy, tropical core.
Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together and provide structure with richness.
Vegetable oil (1/4 cup): Keeps the cake tender and moist without overpowering flavor.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Balances the tartness of pineapple with straightforward sweetness.
Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds warmth and depth with its molasses notes, enhancing caramel undertones.
All-purpose flour (2 cups): The sturdy base that holds this beautiful cake together.
Baking soda (2 teaspoons): Helps the cake rise to light, fluffy perfection.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Amplifies all the sweet flavors and balances the cake perfectly.
Evaporated milk (12 oz): A luscious touch that enriches the silky coconut-pecan icing.
Unsalted butter (2 sticks): Adds creaminess both in the cake and the decadent topping.
Sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens the icing, creating that irresistible glossy finish.
Shredded coconut (2 cups): Delivers tropical texture and that iconic coconut flavor.
Pecans, toasted and roughly chopped (1 cup): Provides crunch and a toasty nuttiness that contrasts beautifully with the softness.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall aroma with subtle warmth and complexity.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Brings balance to the icing’s sweetness.

How to Make Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake

Step 1: Prepare and preheat your oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, which sets the perfect temperature for baking this moist delight. Grease your 9-by-13-inch baking dish thoroughly—using butter or nonstick spray ensures the cake releases easily and maintains its beautiful shape.

Step 2: Mix wet ingredients

In a large bowl, stir together the crushed pineapple with its juices, eggs, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. This combination promises extra moisture and sweetness, laying the foundation for your heavenly cake texture.

Step 3: Incorporate dry ingredients

Add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to your wet mixture. Gently fold everything together until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this keeps the cake tender and prevents it from becoming dense.

Step 4: Bake your cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking. Place it in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, which signals it’s perfectly done.

Step 5: Prepare the iconic frosting

While the cake bakes, whisk together evaporated milk, butter, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter melts and the mixture starts simmering. This rich base is what makes the Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake’s topping so irresistible.

Step 6: Add coconut, pecans, and flavoring

Stir in shredded coconut, toasted pecans, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into the warm mixture. Allow everything to simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes until the icing thickens and transforms into a glossy, indulgent topping packed with tropical flavor and crunch.

Step 7: Combine cake and icing

Once the cake is freshly baked and still warm, pour the luscious coconut-pecan icing evenly over the top. The heat helps the icing soak in slightly, creating sticky, gooey magic that makes this cake so memorable.

Step 8: Cool and slice

Let the Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake cool completely before slicing, so the icing sets but remains delectably soft. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature—both ways are divine!

How to Serve Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake

Garnishes

The icing on this cake is already rich and packed with texture, but for an extra-special touch, sprinkle fresh pineapple chunks or toasted coconut flakes on top right before serving. This adds brightness and a bit of visual wow factor that will impress your guests.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to cool and balance its sweetness. A refreshing cup of brewed coffee or fragrant tea also complements the tropical flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a celebratory vibe perfect for summer barbecues or patriotic holidays, top the Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake with fresh berries arranged in red, white, and blue patterns. Alternatively, serve individual slices in pretty mini dessert plates or alongside a tropical fruit salad for a memorable dessert experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cake is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The icing may firm up in the cold, but the cake’s flavors will continue to meld beautifully over a couple of days.

Freezing

You can freeze the Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake in whole or in slices. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and taste.

Reheating

To reheat, warm a slice gently in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or until just warmed through, making the icing soft and gooey again. Avoid overheating to keep the cake moist and tender.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned for the Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake?

Absolutely! Just drain the crushed fresh pineapple well to avoid extra moisture, which could make the cake too wet. The flavor will be fresh and bright, adding a lovely homemade touch.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Be sure to check the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with texture and structure.

Can I make the coconut-pecan icing ahead of time?

You can prepare the icing a few hours before and keep it covered at room temperature. Reheat gently before pouring over the warm cake for that perfect, gooey finish.

How long does the Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake keep fresh?

Stored properly in the fridge, this cake stays delicious for up to 3 days. The tropical flavors actually deepen as it sits, making leftovers just as delightful.

Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?

Certainly! Walnuts or macadamia nuts are great alternatives that meld well with coconut and pineapple. Just toast them lightly to enhance their flavor.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake, I promise it will become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Its delightful combination of tropical flavors and comforting textures makes it perfect for both everyday treats and special occasions. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to wow yourself and your loved ones with a cake that’s as joyful and vibrant as its name suggests!

Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 6 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert combining crushed pineapple and rich coconut with a toasted pecan topping. The cake is topped with a luscious coconut-pecan icing made with evaporated milk and butter, creating an irresistibly sweet and nutty finish. Perfect for celebrations or a southern-inspired treat, this cake offers a delightful balance of tropical flavors and classic comfort.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare it for the cake batter.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed pineapple with its juice, eggs, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix thoroughly until well blended to ensure the sugars dissolve and the mixture becomes uniform.
Add Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir gently until everything is fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Pour Batter: Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly for uniform baking.
Bake Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is done.
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.
Add Toppings to Icing: Stir in the shredded coconut, toasted pecans, vanilla extract, and salt. Simmer the mixture gently for 5–7 minutes until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.
Ice the Cake: Once the cake is done and still warm, pour the coconut-pecan icing evenly over the top, allowing it to soak in slightly.
Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool before slicing to allow the icing to set. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Toast pecans before adding to the icing for enhanced flavor and crunch.
Use unsalted butter in the icing to control salt level and balance sweetness.
The cake is best served warm or at room temperature but can be refrigerated and served chilled.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American Southern