Pineapple Coconut Patriotic Cake (Print Version)

Moist pineapple cake topped with warm coconut-pecan icing that soaks into every bite for a tropical patriotic celebration.

# Ingredients:

→ For the Cake

01 - 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, with juices
02 - 2 large eggs
03 - ¼ cup vegetable oil
04 - 1 cup granulated sugar
05 - ½ cup brown sugar
06 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
07 - 2 teaspoons baking soda
08 - ½ teaspoon salt

→ For the Icing

09 - 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
10 - 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
11 - 1½ cups granulated sugar
12 - 2 cups shredded coconut
13 - 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped and toasted
14 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
15 - ¼ teaspoon salt

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and crushed pineapple (juice included). Stir until smooth and well combined.
03 - Gradually mix in the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir just until combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
04 - Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
05 - While the cake is baking, combine the evaporated milk, butter, and granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over high heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
06 - Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded coconut, toasted pecans, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until everything is coated in the warm buttery syrup.
07 - Once the cake comes out of the oven, immediately pour the hot icing evenly over the top. Use a spatula to spread it out so every corner is covered in coconut-pecan goodness.
08 - Let the cake cool completely to allow the icing to soak in and set. Slice into generous squares and serve at room temperature.

# Notes:

01 - This tropical-inspired cake features a moist pineapple base topped with a rich coconut-pecan frosting that's applied while hot to infuse flavor throughout.