Pineapple Coconut

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🇺🇸 Pineapple Coconut “God Bless America” Cake – Moist, Tropical, and Truly Celebratory!

Looking for a deliciously moist dessert that feels like a warm hug on a patriotic holiday? This Pineapple Coconut “God Bless America” Cake is a celebration in every bite. With tropical pineapple, shredded coconut, and a buttery, pecan-studded icing that soaks into the cake, it’s the perfect treat for summer barbecues, Memorial Day, the 4th of July—or just because you love cake.

🍍 Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Coconut Cake

  • Super moist and flavorful thanks to crushed pineapple and rich icing.

  • No mixer required! Easy one-bowl cake base.

  • Feeds a crowd—perfect for potlucks and holidays.

  • Tropical twist with coconut and pecans.

  • American classic charm in every bite.

📝 Ingredients You’ll Need

🎂 For the Cake:

  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (with juice) – adds moisture and bright flavor.

  • 2 large eggs – for structure and richness.

  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil – keeps the cake tender.

  • 1 cup granulated sugar – sweetness that balances the fruit.

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar – for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour – your classic cake base.

  • 2 tsp baking soda – to help the cake rise.

  • 1/2 tsp salt – to balance sweetness.

🍯 For the Icing:

  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk – makes the icing rich and velvety.

  • 1 cup unsalted butter – the base of the luscious icing.

  • 1 1/2 cups sugar – for sweetness and caramelization.

  • 2 cups shredded coconut – for texture and flavor.

  • 1 cup chopped pecans – add crunch and nuttiness.

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor.

  • 1/4 tsp salt – balances the sweetness.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or spray a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.

2️⃣ Mix the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

  • Crushed pineapple (with juice)

  • Eggs

  • Oil

  • Granulated sugar

  • Brown sugar

Mix well until smooth and uniform.

Add:

  • Flour

  • Baking soda

  • Salt

Stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

3️⃣ Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

4️⃣ Prepare the Icing

While the cake is baking, combine in a saucepan:

  • Butter

  • Sugar

  • Evaporated milk

  • Salt

Bring to a boil over medium heat, then simmer for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.

Once thickened slightly, stir in:

  • Coconut

  • Chopped pecans

  • Vanilla

Mix until everything is well combined.

5️⃣ Ice the Cake While Hot

As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour the hot icing evenly over the top. The icing will soak into the cake, infusing it with moisture and flavor.

Let the cake cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.

🎉 A Cake That Brings the Party

Whether you’re celebrating Independence Day, attending a family reunion, or just need a sweet pick-me-up, this cake delivers. The flavors are nostalgic and warm—yet the pineapple and coconut offer a tropical twist that keeps it exciting.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

  • Warm or chilled – It’s amazing either way.

  • Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert bliss.

  • Serve with a fresh berry salad for a patriotic color palette.

🧊 How to Store Pineapple Coconut Cake

Room Temperature:
Keep covered on the counter for up to 2 days.

Refrigerator:
Lasts up to 5 days in an airtight container. Flavor deepens over time!

Freezer:
Wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.

🔁 Variations and Tips

  • Swap pecans for walnuts or omit them for a nut-free version.

  • Add 1 tsp cinnamon to the cake batter for a spiced flavor.

  • Use sweetened or unsweetened coconut depending on your sweetness preference.

  • For a lighter version, replace oil with applesauce.

❤️ Why It’s Called “God Bless America” Cake

This recipe became a holiday favorite in Southern kitchens—where food is love and dishes are passed down like family treasures. The name evokes the feeling of home, comfort, and celebration. It’s often served at gatherings where flags wave, grills sizzle, and everyone brings a dish that says, “I made this with love.”

💬 FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, this cake is even better the next day, after the icing has fully absorbed.

Is this cake very sweet?

It is sweet but balanced by the pineapple’s tartness and the richness of the nuts and butter.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes—reduce both sugars in the batter by 1/4 cup each if desired. The texture will still be moist.

Can I use fresh pineapple?

Canned pineapple with juice works best here for consistency and moisture, but you can puree fresh pineapple and measure out 1 1/4 cups with juice as a substitute.

⭐ Final Thoughts

This Pineapple Coconut “God Bless America” Cake is a flavorful tribute to tradition and togetherness. With its soft crumb, tropical notes, and nutty caramel topping, it’s one of those rare cakes that feels both humble and special. Bake it for your next gathering and watch it disappear slice by slice.

📌 Save This Recipe for Later!

Don’t forget to pin or bookmark this page! Whether it’s the 4th of July, a family reunion, or just a Tuesday afternoon, this pineapple coconut cake brings comfort and celebration with every forkful.

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