Description
Get ready to fall in love with this Easy Texas Tornado Cake — a rich, ultra-moist dessert that brings together the warm flavors of crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and a buttery pecan topping in every bite. This old-fashioned cake is the ultimate choice for those looking for a no-fuss, quick dessert that’s big on comfort. It’s a perfect fit for food ideas like easy dinner party desserts, cozy breakfast ideas, or make-ahead sweet treats. Whether you’re seeking a quick breakfast, easy recipe, or a crowd-pleasing addition to your dessert table, this cake checks all the boxes with minimal prep and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple with juice
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup unsalted butter
2/3 cup evaporated milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix together sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Add the crushed pineapple with juice and stir.
3. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture and mix just until combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
5. While the cake bakes, melt butter with evaporated milk and brown sugar in a saucepan. Stir until smooth.
6. Remove from heat and stir in coconut, pecans, and vanilla.
7. Poke holes in the warm cake with a fork, then pour the topping over evenly.
8. Let sit for at least 20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Always use the juice from the pineapple — it’s essential for the cake’s signature moist texture.
Let the topping settle into the cake for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Toasting the pecans and coconut before adding them enhances flavor even more.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: easy recipe, quick breakfast, comfort food, potluck dessert, southern cake, food ideas