Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake Base:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
For the Icing:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish thoroughly or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, baking soda, and salt. Ensure all dry ingredients are well combined and free of lumps.
- Create the Batter: Add the eggs, undrained crushed pineapple, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until the batter becomes smooth and well incorporated.
- Add Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans. These will add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor to the cake.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula, ensuring an even surface for perfect baking.
- Add the Topping: Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the batter. Follow with chopped nuts and shredded coconut if you're using it. This creates a delicious, crunchy top layer.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Prepare the Icing: While the cake bakes, make the icing. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, evaporated milk, and granulated sugar. Stir constantly until the mixture reaches a gentle boil. Continue boiling for about 2 minutes.
- Final Touch: Remove the icing from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Once the cake is out of the oven, immediately pour the hot icing over the top, spreading it evenly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan. It's delicious served warm, but you can also let it cool completely if you prefer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes