Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake is a tropical, light, and moist cake that combines the flavors of sweet pineapple and creamy coconut for a delicious treat. It’s perfect for summer parties, potlucks, or any time you want to indulge in a sweet, dreamy dessert. Here’s a simple and decadent recipe for you to try:
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix (you can use a box with added pudding for extra moisture)
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice)
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (or regular milk, if preferred)
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut (for topping)
- Extra shredded coconut (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, crushed pineapple (drained, but reserve the juice), shredded coconut, eggs, vegetable oil, and coconut milk. Stir until fully combined.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake according to the package instructions (usually about 30-35 minutes), or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
2. Make the Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and continue mixing until smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract and beat the frosting for an additional 2-3 minutes to make it fluffy.
- Once the cake is cooled, spread the frosting generously over the top of the cake.
3. Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle shredded coconut over the top of the frosting.
- For an extra touch, you can toast some coconut by placing it in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown, then sprinkle it on top of the cake.
- Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips:
- Extra Pineapple Flavor: For an even more intense pineapple flavor, you can mix some of the reserved pineapple juice into the frosting or drizzle it over the cake before frosting.
- Layered Version: You could also make this cake into a layered cake if you prefer, using two round cake pans instead of a 9×13-inch pan. Just slice the cake layers in half and frost in between.
- Toasting Coconut: To toast the coconut for an extra crunch, just bake it on a baking sheet at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent burning.
This Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake is a perfect combination of creamy, sweet, and tropical flavors that will take you straight to a tropical paradise with every bite! Enjoy this delicious treat!