Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe is a moist, fruity layered cake with pineapple, strawberries, cinnamon sugar, and a rich coconut pecan topping.
This Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe tastes incredibly delicious, moist, and richly nostalgic. I made this Old Fashioned Omaha Cake because the classic Midwestern style inspired me after watching it prepared in an old community cookbook video.
I now show step by step guidance so this timeless Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe can be recreated easily at home.
Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe
The Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe is a nostalgic, Midwest style dessert known for its incredibly moist texture and rich, fruity flavor.
Its main speciality comes from combining crushed pineapple, fresh strawberries, and strawberry jam directly into the batter, creating a naturally sweet, tender cake without needing extra fuss.
The warm coconut pecan topping poured over the Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe while hot adds a caramel-like finish that soaks in beautifully.
This Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe stands out for being simple to make yet exceptionally flavourful, comforting, and crowd pleasing.
How To Prepare Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Yield: Approximately 12 servings
Kitchen Utensils
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls (2–3)
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Medium saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For The Cake
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 (20-oz) can crushed pineapple with its juice
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and roughly chopped
- 1 cup strawberry jam
- 1–2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar (for topping)
For The Topping
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
1. Get The Oven And Pan Ready
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper so the cake won’t stick.
2. Make The Cake Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, vanilla, and vegetable oil until smooth. Add the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and a pinch of salt, stirring until you have a thick batter. Then gently fold in the crushed pineapple (with its juice), chopped strawberries, and strawberry jam until everything is evenly mixed.
3. Sprinkle With Cinnamon Sugar
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons of cinnamon sugar over the top for a little extra flavor.
4. Bake
Bake the cake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
5. Make The Warm Topping
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the powdered sugar, heavy cream (or milk), and vanilla until smooth. Add the shredded coconut and chopped pecans, mixing until everything is coated and gooey.
6. Top The Cake and Serve
While the cake is still warm, spread the topping evenly over the surface. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes so the topping sets a bit. Cut into squares and enjoy your classic Omaha Cake!
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 430 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 52 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Sugar | 39 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
Expert Tips
● Fold strawberries gently so they stay juicy and create bright pockets of fruit in every slice.
● Pour the warm topping over the cake immediately after baking so it seeps in and forms a glossy layer.
● Use room temperature eggs and a well-stirred can of pineapple to help the batter blend smoothly.
● Toast the pecans and coconut lightly beforehand to deepen flavor and add a richer aroma.
● Let the cake rest at least thirty minutes before cutting to allow the crumb to set properly.
Recipe Variations
➢ Replace strawberries and jam with raspberries and raspberry preserves for a brighter, tangier finish.
➢ Use crushed peaches and a spoonful of peach marmalade for a softer, sweeter fruit profile.
➢ Add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a richer, dessert style twist.
➢ Swap pecans for walnuts and add a pinch of nutmeg to the topping for a deeper, crozier flavor.
➢ Stir in shredded carrots and a touch of pineapple extra juice for a lightly spiced, carrot cake inspired version.

Serving Suggestions
1. Serve slightly warm so the topping stays soft and fragrant.
2. Pair each slice with a small scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for extra richness.
3. Add a spoonful of lightly sweetened whipped cream to highlight the fruit notes.
4. Plate alongside fresh berries to give a bright, colourful contrast.
5. Offer a drizzle of warm strawberry jam thinned with a touch of cream for a silky finish.
How To Make Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe Tastier?
Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe becomes even tastier through careful ingredient choices and simple enhancements.
Using fully ripe, juicy strawberries and high quality pineapple elevates natural sweetness. Lightly toasting pecans and coconut adds a deeper, richer flavor.
A pinch of extra cinnamon in the sugar topping brings warmth and aroma. Slightly warming the strawberry jam before spreading helps it blend smoothly.
Serving the cake slightly chilled allows the layers to set beautifully, creating a delightful combination of textures and irresistible taste.
Why We Love This Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe?
We love Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe because it fills every bite with rich, comforting flavors. Moist pineapple and juicy strawberries create a naturally sweet and tender cake, while the coconut and pecan topping adds a delightful crunch.
The subtle cinnamon sugar enhances the warmth and nostalgia of this classic dessert. Each slice offers a perfect balance of fruitiness and buttery richness.
This Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe brings joy to the table, creating memorable moments and a truly irresistible treat.
Storage & Make Ahead
Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe keeps well for several days, maintaining its moist texture and rich flavours.
Store the Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
The topping remains fresh and crunchy, enhancing every slice. This cake can also be prepared in advance and allowed to set, ensuring layers and flavours meld beautifully for an even more enjoyable dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead Of Fresh?
Frozen strawberries can be used but should be thawed and drained slightly to avoid extra moisture in the batter.
Is It Possible To Make This Cake Gluten Free?
Yes, substitute the all purpose flour with a gluten free flour blend that measures cup for cup.
Can I Prepare The Cake A Day In Advance?
Yes, preparing it a day early enhances the flavours and keeps the topping moist.
Can I Use A Different Fruit Instead Of Strawberries?
Pineapple and other berries like raspberries or blueberries can be substituted.
Conclusion
The Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe is easy to prepare, enjoyable, and absolutely delicious. Its moist pineapple strawberry layers combined with the sweet, crunchy coconut pecan topping create a perfect balance of flavours and textures.
This Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe is simple yet impressive, and it is sure to inspire anyone to try it. Everyone who tastes it will appreciate its rich, comforting sweetness.
I hope this Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe encourages you to enjoy baking and savor the delightful results of this classic dessert.
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Old Fashioned Omaha Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls (2–3)
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Medium saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For The Cake
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 20-oz can crushed pineapple with its juice
- 1 pint fresh strawberries hulled and roughly chopped
- 1 cup strawberry jam
- 1 –2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar for topping
For The Topping
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 –3 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
Get The Oven And Pan Ready
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper so the cake won’t stick.
Make The Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, vanilla, and vegetable oil until smooth. Add the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and a pinch of salt, stirring until you have a thick batter. Then gently fold in the crushed pineapple (with its juice), chopped strawberries, and strawberry jam until everything is evenly mixed.
Sprinkle With Cinnamon Sugar
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons of cinnamon sugar over the top for a little extra flavor.
Bake
- Bake the cake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
Make The Warm Topping
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the powdered sugar, heavy cream (or milk), and vanilla until smooth. Add the shredded coconut and chopped pecans, mixing until everything is coated and gooey.
Top The Cake and Serve
- While the cake is still warm, spread the topping evenly over the surface. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes so the topping sets a bit. Cut into squares and enjoy your classic Omaha Cake!
Notes
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving
Calories: 430 kcal | Carbohydrates: 52 g | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 24 g | Saturated Fat: 7 g | Sugar: 39 g | Fiber: 2 g
Hi, I’m Samia! I’ve spent the past five years creating recipes that are both delicious and unique. Cooking is my passion, and I love exploring different cuisines, blending flavors, and turning everyday meals into something memorable. From quick weeknight dinners to festive feasts, I aim to make every dish special. I’d love for you to join me on this culinary journey together we’ll explore simple, easy-to-follow recipes and tips that make cooking fun, inspiring, and full of joy!