Pineapple Coconut “God Bless America 🇺🇸” Cake: A Sweet Tribute to Tradition

A Patriotic and Flavorful Dessert for Every Occasion

Few things bring people together like homemade cake, and this Pineapple Coconut “God Bless America 🇺🇸” Cake is the perfect dessert to celebrate family, freedom, and good food. With its moist, tropical flavor, rich coconut-pecan icing, and an old-fashioned homemade charm, this cake is a true American classic.

Whether you’re baking for a Fourth of July celebration, Memorial Day, a summer picnic, or simply to enjoy a slice of nostalgia, this cake delivers the perfect blend of sweetness, crunch, and tropical goodness. The combination of pineapple, coconut, and pecans creates a warm, comforting dessert that’s both easy to make and impossible to resist.

Let’s get started on this heavenly cake that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Cake

✔ Rich and Moist – The crushed pineapple and brown sugar make this cake soft, sweet, and packed with flavor.
✔ Easy to Make – No complicated techniques, just simple ingredients and foolproof steps.
✔ Perfect for Celebrations – A festive and flavorful treat for holidays, potlucks, and family gatherings.
✔ Coconut & Pecan Icing – A buttery, caramel-like topping that adds a delightful crunch.
✔ No Fancy Equipment Needed – Just a mixing bowl, spoon, and baking dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake:

Ingredient	Amount
Crushed pineapple (with juice)	1 can (20 oz)
Eggs	2
Oil	¼ cup
Sugar	1 cup
Brown sugar	½ cup
All-purpose flour	2 cups
Baking soda	2 tsp
Salt	½ tsp

For the Coconut-Pecan Icing:

Ingredient	Amount
Evaporated milk	1 can (12 oz)
Butter	1 cup
Sugar	1½ cups
Shredded coconut	2 cups
Chopped pecans	1 cup
Vanilla extract	1 tsp
Salt	¼ tsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed pineapple (with juice), eggs, oil, sugar, and brown sugar. Stir until well mixed.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

2. Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool slightly while preparing the icing.

3. Make the Coconut-Pecan Icing

• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the evaporated milk, butter, and sugar.
• Stir constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes golden (about 10 minutes).
• Remove from heat and stir in the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, vanilla extract, and salt.
• Spread the icing over the warm cake, allowing it to seep into the surface.

4. Cool & Serve

• Let the cake cool completely before slicing.
• Serve as is, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence!

Tips for the Best Pineapple Coconut Cake

✔ Don’t Drain the Pineapple

• The juice keeps the cake extra moist and adds natural sweetness.

✔ Use Freshly Chopped Pecans

• For the best texture and flavor, toast the pecans for 3-5 minutes before adding them to the icing.

✔ Let the Icing Set

• Give the icing at least 10-15 minutes to soak into the cake before serving.

✔ Serve Warm or Cold

• This cake tastes delicious warm, but it also sets up beautifully when chilled.

✔ Make It Ahead

• Bake this cake a day in advance—the flavors deepen and get even better overnight!

What to Serve with Pineapple Coconut Cake

This cake pairs beautifully with a variety of desserts and beverages. Here are some great serving ideas:

🍦 Desserts

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A cool, creamy contrast to the warm cake.
• Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy, perfect for topping.
• Caramel Drizzle – Adds an extra touch of sweetness.

🥂 Beverages

• Iced Tea or Lemonade – Refreshing and perfect for summer.
• Coffee or Espresso – A rich pairing that complements the sweetness.
• Pina Colada – A tropical drink that matches the cake’s flavors!

Healthier Substitutions

Want a lighter version of this cake? Try these easy swaps:

• Use Coconut Sugar – A natural alternative to white sugar.
• Swap Oil for Applesauce – Reduces fat while keeping the cake moist.
• Use Whole Wheat Flour – Adds fiber and nutrients.
• Reduce Sugar in the Icing – The coconut adds natural sweetness!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Overmixing the Batter

• Stir just until combined—overmixing can make the cake dense.

❌ Baking Too Long

• Check at 30 minutes and remove when a toothpick comes out clean.

❌ Skipping the Salt in the Icing

• A little salt balances the sweetness perfectly!

❌ Not Letting the Cake Cool Before Cutting

• Cutting too soon can make the cake fall apart—give it time to set.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

1. Can I make this cake without nuts?

Yes! Simply omit the pecans for a nut-free version.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

3. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

4. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes! Just crush the pineapple and include the juices.

5. What can I substitute for evaporated milk?

You can use heavy cream or coconut milk for a similar texture.

6. Can I make cupcakes instead of a sheet cake?

Yes! Divide the batter into cupcake liners and bake for 18-20 minutes.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This Pineapple Coconut “God Bless America 🇺🇸” Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavor, tradition, and homemade goodness. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, special occasion, or just because, this cake is guaranteed to impress.

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