Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake is a tropical treat that combines the sweetness of pineapple, the richness of coconut, and a soft, dreamy cake texture. This cake is perfect for those who love a light and moist dessert with a tropical twist. Here’s a delicious recipe to make it!
Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake
Ingredients (For the cake):
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or homemade if preferred)
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice)
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (or regular milk)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
Ingredients (For the frosting):
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut, toasted (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the Cake Batter:
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, drained crushed pineapple (reserve the juice for later), coconut milk, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth and combined.
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded coconut to the batter for that tropical flavor.
3. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the baking dish.
4. Prepare the Frosting:
- While the cake is cooling, make the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
5. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cake has cooled, frost the top with the cream cheese frosting. Spread it evenly over the entire surface of the cake.
6. Garnish:
- Toast the remaining 1/4 cup shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes), stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Sprinkle the toasted coconut over the frosted cake for an added crunch and extra coconut flavor.
7. Chill and Serve:
- Chill the cake in the fridge for at least 1 hour to let the frosting set. This will make the cake even more refreshing when served.
- Slice and enjoy this tropical, dreamy delight!
Tips:
- For extra pineapple flavor: You can drizzle some of the reserved pineapple juice over the cooled cake before frosting it. This will add more moisture and a burst of pineapple flavor.
- Make it more tropical: For an extra punch, you could mix in some crushed macadamia nuts or even top the cake with some maraschino cherries for a fun, festive look.
- Make ahead: This cake stores well in the fridge and can be made a day ahead for even more flavor!
This Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake is a soft, creamy, and absolutely dreamy dessert that’s perfect for summer parties, potlucks, or any occasion where you want a little tropical escape! Enjoy! 🍍🥥🍰