Here’s a tropical and delicious recipe for Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake! This cake is light, moist, and packed with tropical flavors from the pineapple and coconut, with a dreamy cream cheese frosting to top it off.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 box (18.25 oz) yellow cake mix (or you can use homemade cake batter)
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve the juice)
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (from the drained pineapple)
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional, for mixing into the frosting)
Optional Toppings:
- Extra shredded coconut for garnish
- Pineapple slices or chunks (for decoration)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Add the drained crushed pineapple, coconut, and pineapple juice, and stir until fully combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
2. Bake the Cake:
- Bake the cake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary, so start checking around 30 minutes.
- Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Make the Frosting:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, and continue to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and optional crushed pineapple for extra flavor.
4. Frost the Cake:
- Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle the shredded coconut on top of the frosting for a decorative touch.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the cake into squares or rectangles and serve! You can also garnish with pineapple slices or chunks for extra tropical flair.
Tips:
- Make It Extra Moist: You can use buttermilk instead of regular milk for an even moister cake.
- Add Some Crunch: If you prefer more texture, toast the shredded coconut before sprinkling it on the cake.
- Make-Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together, so feel free to make it in advance.
This Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake is perfect for tropical-themed parties, summer get-togethers, or any time you want a refreshing, flavorful dessert! Enjoy!