There’s something truly magical about the combination of pineapple and coconut. Together, they evoke the essence of a tropical paradise, bringing warmth and sunshine to any occasion. The Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake is a delightful dessert that celebrates these vibrant flavors. It’s perfect for any patriotic event, summer gathering, or simply when you want to indulge in a sweet escape. This cake is not only delicious but also simple to make, promising a moist, flavorful experience in every bite. So, let’s dive into the details and discover how to bring this taste of paradise to your table.
**Recipe**
The Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake is a testament to the beauty of simple, flavorful ingredients combined to create a dessert that feels both indulgent and refreshing. The cake itself is moist and tender, thanks to the crushed pineapple and its juices, while the coconut and pecan icing adds a rich, nutty texture. This cake is a crowd-pleaser, sure to be a hit at any event. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this cake is a perfect choice.
**Ingredients**
To create this delightful cake, here’s what you’ll need:
– For the 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
– For the 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
**Directions/Instructions**
1. **Preheat and Prepare**
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your cake doesn’t stick.
2. **Mix the Wet Ingredients**
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Add in the crushed pineapple, including the juices, and mix until well combined. This mixture will serve as the base of your cake, providing sweetness and moisture.
3. **Combine the Dry Ingredients**
Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Mix until the ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your cake dense.
4. **Bake the Cake**
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. **Prepare the Icing**
While your cake is baking, start on the icing. In a saucepan over high heat, combine the evaporated milk, sugar, and butter. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. **Finish the Icing**
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded coconut, toasted pecans, vanilla extract, and salt. This icing is rich and flavorful, with a delightful crunch from the pecans.
7. **Ice the Cake**
Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the icing over the top. Spread it evenly across the surface to ensure each slice is coated in deliciousness.
8. **Cool and Serve**
Allow the cake to cool completely, letting the icing set before slicing. Once cooled, slice and serve this delightful creation, enjoying every bite of its tropical goodness.
**FAQ**
1. **Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?**
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to crush it finely and include any juices released during the process to maintain the cake’s moisture.
2. **Can I substitute another nut for pecans in the icing?**
Certainly! Walnuts or almonds would make great substitutes if you prefer a different nut or have an allergy to pecans.
3. **Can this cake be made in advance?**
Absolutely. The cake can be made a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature, and it will remain moist and delicious.
4. **How should I store leftovers?**
Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake, but bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
5. **Can I make this cake gluten-free?**
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for baking.
**Conclusion**
The Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake is a culinary celebration that brings the vibrant flavors of the tropics to your table. Its moist, tender crumb paired with the rich, nutty icing makes it an irresistible treat that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy the delightful combination of pineapple and coconut, this cake is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and indulge in a slice of tropical paradise? Your taste buds will certainly thank you!