Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the flavors of the tropics with a touch of American charm. The Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake is a heavenly creation that combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple and coconut with the comforting richness of a classic American dessert. This recipe is not just a cake; it’s a celebration of flavors and a tribute to the culinary diversity of our great nation.
Ingredients
Produce
- 1 can (20 oz.) of crushed pineapple
Refrigerated
- 2 Eggs, large
Canned Goods
- 1 can (12 oz.) of evaporated milk
Baking & Spices
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 2 tsp Baking soda
- 1/2 cup Brown sugar, firmly packed
- 2 1/2 cups Granulated sugar
- 3/4 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract, pure
Oils & Vinegars
- 1/4 cup Vegetable oil
Nuts & Seeds
- 2 cups Coconut
- 1 cup Pecans
Dairy
- 1 cup Butter, unsalted
Instructions
Preparing the Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the eggs, evaporated milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients, and mix until well combined.
- Fold in the crushed pineapple (including the juice), shredded coconut, and chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Baking the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the baking dish.
Serving
- Once cooled, slice the cake into squares and serve.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Cream Cheese Frosting: For an extra indulgent touch, consider topping the cake with a layer of cream cheese frosting. Simply beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy, then spread it over the cooled cake.
- Fresh Pineapple: If you prefer, you can use fresh pineapple instead of canned. Simply peel, core, and dice enough pineapple to yield about 20 oz. and use it in place of the crushed pineapple.
- Nut-Free Option: If you have nut allergies or prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans from the recipe.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version
- Substitute almond flour or coconut flour for the all-purpose flour to reduce the carb content.
- Use a keto-friendly sweetener, such as erythritol or stevia, in place of the granulated and brown sugars.
Low-Carb Version
- Reduce the amount of granulated and brown sugars or use a sugar substitute to lower the carb content.
- Use almond flour or coconut flour in place of the all-purpose flour for a lower-carb option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? A: Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can be used in place of canned. Simply peel, core, and dice the pineapple to achieve the same amount as the canned crushed pineapple.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes! This cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Alternatively, you can refrigerate it for longer storage.
Q: Can I freeze this cake? A: Yes, this cake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I omit the coconut or pecans? A: Certainly! If you’re not a fan of coconut or pecans, feel free to omit them from the recipe. The cake will still be delicious without them.
The Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake is a testament to the rich tapestry of flavors that make up the culinary landscape of our nation. With its tropical flair and classic charm, this cake is sure to delight your taste buds and evoke feelings of joy and nostalgia with every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is the perfect way to spread a little happiness and love. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a slice of paradise. God bless America, and God bless this cake!
Indulge in the flavors of the tropics and the spirit of America with this divine dessert. Cheers to good food, good company, and the blessings of home.
