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Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake Recipe

4.6 from 121 reviews

A moist and flavorful Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake featuring a tender pineapple-infused cake base topped with a rich, creamy coconut and pecan icing. This Southern-inspired dessert perfectly balances tropical sweetness with a nutty crunch, ideal for any festive occasion or a comforting treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake 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

Icing Ingredients

  • 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 and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. 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 for a smooth batter.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt into the wet mixture. Stir carefully until fully incorporated, being cautious not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
  4. Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly to ensure uniform baking.
  5. Bake the Cake: Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
  6. Prepare the Icing: While the cake bakes, place evaporated milk, unsalted butter, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the butter melts and the mixture begins to simmer.
  7. Add Icing Ingredients: Stir in shredded coconut, toasted pecans, vanilla extract, and salt. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until it thickens into a rich icing.
  8. Ice the Cake: Once the cake is done baking and still warm, pour the prepared coconut-pecan icing evenly over the top to soak in and add flavor.
  9. Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best taste experience.

Notes

  • Ensure not to overmix the batter to maintain a light and tender cake texture.
  • Toast pecans before adding to the icing for enhanced flavor and crunch.
  • Serve the cake warm to enjoy the full richness of the coconut pecan icing.
  • Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
  • This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.

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