Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake

Well, with a name like God Bless America Cake, you know this has to be good! With roots in a Cajun cookbook, it’s also known as Cajun cake. But what really matters isn’t the name—it’s how delicious this cake is! Imagine a moist, fruit-filled cake topped with a nutty, caramel frosting. This cake bakes up in a 9×13-inch baking dish, making it perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s a no-fuss dessert that tastes incredible with minimal effort on your part!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is a true crowd-pleaser! It’s incredibly moist thanks to the pineapple, and the coconut pecan frosting adds a delightful crunch. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you can spend less time baking and more time enjoying.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Large saucepan
• Spatula

Ingredients

Cake:

• 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

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350º F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, brown sugar, oil, and pineapple (with juices). Mix in the flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. While the cake is baking, combine the evaporated milk, sugar, and butter in a large saucepan over high heat and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the shredded coconut, pecans, vanilla extract, and salt.
8. Once the cake is done, pour the icing over the top and spread it into an even layer. Let it set before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

• Make sure your baking dish is well-greased to prevent sticking.
• Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.
• Let the icing set completely before serving for the best texture.

Additional Tips and Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the cake batter for a warm spice flavor. You can also substitute walnuts for pecans or add a handful of raisins to the batter for extra texture.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This cake is a delightful treat, but it’s important to enjoy it in moderation. Each serving contains approximately:

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Protein: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake is actually even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

While fresh pineapple can be used, the canned pineapple with its juices adds extra moisture to the cake, so keep that in mind if substituting.

Conclusion

Ready to taste the magic of this Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake? It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your baking success stories with us in the comments below!