Preheat oven to 350F degrees. Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray (I like the kind that has flour in it.)
In a medium bowl, mix together 2 cups self-rising flour, 15 ounce can fruit cocktail in heavy syrup, undrained, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 11 1/2 cups granulated sugar using an electric mixer at low speed until thoroughly combined.
Pour cake batter evenly into prepared baking dish.
Bake at 350F degrees for 30-35 minutes (oven times vary so check after 30 minutes.) When done, cake should spring back to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.
For the sauce:
Combine 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes, 1 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 cup evaporated milk and 1 cup chopped pecans in a medium sauce pan.
Turn the heat up and bring it all to a boil for one minute.
Using a fork, poke a few holes in the cake.
Pour warm sauce over warm cake. Make sure to spread out the coconut and pecans evenly over cake.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Video
Notes
This cake will keep for 2-3 days in the refrigerator as long as it is covered.
This cake can also be frozen. Cover very well to protect from freezer burn and the cake will keep for 3 months in the freezer.