Making Texas Tornado Cake involves a series of simple steps to ensure great results:

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together oil, eggs, crushed pineapple (drained), shredded coconut, chopped nuts, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.
5. Pour Batter: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Prepare Frosting: For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and milk to reach the desired consistency.
9. Frost the Cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, frost the top with the cream cheese frosting.
10. Serve: Optionally, sprinkle additional chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top for garnish.

By following these simple steps, you’ll have an incredible Texas Tornado Cake that’s sure to impress!