Tropical Paradise: Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake Recipe

Sweet memories of tropical vacations dance through my pineapple coconut dream cake, a dessert that whispers sunshine and relaxation.

Soft layers promise delightful surprises with each delicate forkful.

Caribbean breezes seem to float from this incredibly moist creation.

Creamy coconut frosting nestles between golden cake tiers, inviting you to savor pure comfort.

Gentle hints of island flavors meld perfectly in every bite.

Pantry staples transform into something magical with minimal effort.

Why Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake Is a Tropical Treat

• Bake with Ease: Simplify your baking experience with this straightforward recipe that requires minimal culinary skills, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Tropical Flavor Explosion: Indulge in a delightful combination of pineapple and coconut that transports your taste buds to a sunny paradise, creating a refreshing and exotic dessert.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Impress family and friends with this stunning cake that looks professionally made but is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it ideal for gatherings, potlucks, and special celebrations.
• Versatile Sweet Treat: Enjoy this cake as a delectable dessert after dinner, a delightful accompaniment to afternoon tea, or a show-stopping centerpiece for birthdays and summer parties.

Ingredients for Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

• Yellow Cake Mix: A convenient base that provides a soft and fluffy foundation for the cake.
• Crushed Pineapple: Adds moisture and tropical flavor to the cake.
• Coconut Milk: Enhances the richness and provides a creamy tropical essence.
• Vegetable Oil: Ensures a moist and tender cake texture.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide structure to the cake.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the overall flavor profile.

• Crushed Pineapple, Granulated Sugar: Creates a sweet and tangy filling with natural fruit chunks.
• Cornstarch, Cold Water: Helps thicken the pineapple filling to a glossy consistency.

• Heavy Cream: Creates a light and airy base for the frosting.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream.
• Coconut Extract: Intensifies the tropical coconut flavor of the frosting.

How to Bake Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven and Prep Pans

Crank the oven to 350F (175C). Grease and dust two 9-inch round cake pans with flour to ensure smooth cake release.

Step 2: Create Magical Cake Batter

• Cake mix
• Crushed pineapple with juice
• Coconut milk
• Vegetable oil
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract

Whip these ingredients using an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the batter looks silky and well blended.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers

Pour the batter evenly into prepared pans. Slide into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean. Let cakes rest in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling.

Step 4: Craft Tangy Pineapple Filling

• Crushed pineapple with juice
• Granulated sugar
• Cornstarch
• Cold water

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture transforms into a glossy, thick sauce (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.

Step 5: Whip Up Dreamy Coconut Frosting

Using an electric mixer, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually fold in powdered sugar and coconut extract. Continue whipping until stiff peaks develop. Set frosting aside.

Step 6: Build Your Tropical Cake Masterpiece

Place first cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of pineapple filling across the top. Gently position the second cake layer. Frost the entire cake with coconut whipped cream, ensuring even coverage on sides and top.

Pro Tips for Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

• Swap regular cake mix with gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy this tropical treat.
• Drain pineapple slightly before adding to batter to prevent excess moisture and maintain perfect cake consistency.
• Chill the mixing bowl and whisk before whipping cream for fluffier, more stable coconut frosting that holds its shape beautifully.
• Toast shredded coconut and sprinkle on top for extra crunch and enhanced nutty flavor that elevates the cake's texture and presentation.
• Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing flavors to meld and intensify over time.

Variations to Explore With Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

• Tropical Fruit Fusion: Replace pineapple with mango and passion fruit for a vibrant, exotic flavor profile that brings Caribbean island vibes to your cake.
• Rum-Soaked Island Cake: Brush cake layers with coconut rum before adding filling, creating a rich, boozy undertone that enhances the tropical essence.
• Nutty Coconut Paradise: Sprinkle toasted macadamia or almond pieces between layers and on top of frosting for added crunch and nutty complexity.
• Spiced Tropical Remix: Incorporate ground cardamom and ginger into the cake batter for a warm, aromatic spin on the original recipe that adds depth and complexity.

Pairing Suggestions for Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

• Tropical Paradise Drink Pairing: Blend a refreshing piña colada with rum, fresh pineapple juice, coconut cream, and crushed ice to complement the cake's tropical flavors and enhance the sweet, fruity profile.
• Creamy Accompaniment: Serve a chilled glass of coconut milk or a light, creamy horchata to balance the cake's richness and provide a smooth, complementary texture.
• Zesty Fruit Contrast: Offer a small plate of fresh passion fruit or mango slices to add a tangy, bright note that cuts through the cake's sweetness and provides a palate-cleansing effect.
• Dessert Wine Match: Select a sweet Moscato or late-harvest Riesling with tropical fruit notes to echo the cake's pineapple and coconut essence, creating a harmonious flavor experience.

Storage Guidelines for Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

• Store the cake in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the cake away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption.
• Wrap the entire frosted cake tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Wrap each cake slice separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Unwrap and let thaw at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before enjoying.
• Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds on low power to maintain moisture.

FAQs for Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

• Is this cake good for special occasions?

Yes, the Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake is perfect for birthdays, summer parties, and tropical-themed events. Its bright flavors and creamy texture make it a crowd-pleaser.

• Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic. Assemble and frost the cake a few hours before serving to maintain freshness.

• Do I need any special baking skills to make this cake?

Not at all! This recipe is beginner-friendly. As long as you follow the instructions carefully and use a hand mixer, you can create a delicious cake that looks and tastes professional.

Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake Recipe

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4.9 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 50-62 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Indulgent Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake brings tropical paradise straight to your dessert table, blending luscious flavors that dance with sweet, creamy elegance. Creamy coconut and tangy pineapple layers promise a delightful escape you won’t want to miss.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 box yellow cake mix or white cake mix
• 1 cup (240 ml) crushed pineapple (with juice)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) coconut milk
• 3 large eggs

Supporting Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Filling and Topping Ingredients:

• 1 can (20 ounces/567 grams) crushed pineapple (with juice)
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) cold water
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (60 grams) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract
• 1 cup (80 grams) shredded sweetened coconut (toasted, optional for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Craft the foundation by heating the oven to 350F and preparing two cake pans with grease and flour.
2. Blend cake mix, crushed pineapple, coconut milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl, whisking for 2-3 minutes until achieving a silky, uniform consistency.
3. Distribute the batter equally between prepared pans, baking for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick emerges clean when inserted into the center.
4. Allow cakes to rest in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack for complete temperature reduction.
5. Create pineapple filling by combining crushed pineapple, sugar, cornstarch, and cold water in a saucepan, simmering and stirring continuously until the mixture transforms into a glossy, thickened texture (approximately 5-7 minutes).
6. Remove filling from heat, letting it cool entirely to room temperature.
7. Whip heavy cream using an electric mixer until soft peaks develop, gradually incorporating powdered sugar and coconut extract while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
8. Position first cake layer on serving platter, spreading a generous layer of cooled pineapple filling across the surface.
9. Carefully place second cake layer atop the filling, gently pressing to secure.
10. Meticulously frost the entire cake with coconut whipped cream, ensuring smooth, even coverage on sides and top.

Notes

• Swap ingredients easily by using gluten-free cake mix for a celiac-friendly version and dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream for whipping to accommodate different dietary needs.
• Prevent cake from drying out by ensuring accurate baking time and not overbaking; use toothpick test precisely and remove cake from oven immediately when it comes out clean.
• Enhance flavor depth by toasting coconut flakes and sprinkling them on top of frosted cake for extra crunch and nutty complexity that elevates the tropical taste profile.
• Control sweetness levels by adjusting sugar quantities in pineapple filling and frosting, allowing customization for those preferring less sugary desserts while maintaining cake’s signature tropical essence.

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-37 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 292 kcal
• Sugar: 29 g
• Sodium: 142 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 37 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 58 mg