Pineapple Coconut Sheet Cake (A Sunday Favorite!)
If you’re craving a cake that feels like a tropical vacation in every bite, this Pineapple Coconut Sheet Cake is exactly what you need. Juicy pineapple keeps the cake perfectly moist, while shredded coconut adds a sweet, chewy texture that’s downright irresistible. Topped with a luscious frosting and even more coconut, it’s the kind of dessert that’ll have everyone asking for seconds—trust me, it’s a Sunday staple you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You’ll Love Pineapple Coconut Sheet Cake
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, bringing dessert to a potluck, or simply treating yourself, this cake is versatile enough to fit any occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for brunch, dessert, or even as a sweet snack with coffee.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry ingredients and canned pineapple.
Quick and Easy: No layers to stack—just mix, bake, and frost.
Customizable: Add nuts, extra fruit, or a splash of rum for a twist.
Crowd-Pleasing: That tropical pineapple-coconut combo is a hit with everyone.
Ingredients in Pineapple Coconut Sheet Cake
Here’s the magic of this cake—it’s made with simple ingredients that deliver big on flavor. Let’s break it down:
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation for the cake’s light structure.
Sugar: Sweetens and balances the tangy pineapple.
Eggs: Provide richness and help the cake rise.
Canned Crushed Pineapple (with juice): Keeps the cake ultra-moist and adds flavor.
Baking Soda: Gives the cake a soft, fluffy crumb.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors.
Coconut: Sweetened shredded coconut for texture and a tropical taste.
Frosting: A simple cream cheese or buttercream frosting pairs beautifully.

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the eggs and crushed pineapple with juice until well blended.
Add the Coconut: Fold in shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Frost and Garnish: Spread cream cheese or buttercream frosting over the cooled cake, then sprinkle with extra coconut.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice into squares and enjoy the tropical goodness.
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 380
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
How to Serve Pineapple Coconut Sheet Cake
This cake is fantastic served as-is, but you can also pair it with fresh pineapple slices or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s a perfect dessert for casual Sunday dinners or festive gatherings.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Toast the coconut before sprinkling it on top for extra crunch and flavor.
Use crushed pineapple with juice—don’t drain it! The juice keeps the cake moist.
For a more indulgent twist, drizzle the finished cake with a little caramel sauce.
FAQ’s
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
2. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
You can, but be sure to finely crush it and include any juice for moisture.
3. Can I add nuts to the batter?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts are a great addition.
4. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
5. What frosting works best?
Cream cheese frosting is classic, but buttercream or whipped frosting also work.
6. Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes, but you may want to add a bit more sugar to balance the flavors.
7. Can I bake this as cupcakes?
Absolutely! Just reduce the baking time to about 18-20 minutes.
8. How do I store leftovers?
Keep the cake covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
9. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
10. Do I need to refrigerate the frosted cake?
If using cream cheese frosting, yes—store it in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Pineapple Coconut Sheet Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert that’s easy to make and loved by all. With its tropical flavor and soft texture, it’s the perfect treat for any Sunday gathering or celebration!
Print
Pineapple Coconut Sheet Cake (A Sunday Favorite!)
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist and tropical pineapple coconut sheet cake topped with creamy frosting and shredded coconut. A crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for Sunday gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice
- 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (for frosting)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 3 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- Stir in eggs, vanilla, crushed pineapple with juice, shredded coconut, and nuts (if using) until fully combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla and beat until fluffy.
- Spread frosting over cooled cake and sprinkle with shredded coconut before serving.
Notes
- This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
- For extra tropical flavor, toast the coconut used for garnish.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: pineapple coconut cake, sheet cake recipe, tropical dessert, Sunday dessert idea