Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

If you’re craving a dessert that transports you straight to a tropical paradise, look no further than this Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake. This luscious cake is a beautiful fusion of sweet, tangy pineapple and creamy coconut, enveloped in a rich cream cheese frosting. Each bite bursts with tropical flavors, making it the perfect treat for any occasion—whether it’s a summer celebration, a birthday, or simply a sweet indulgence at the end of the day.

Jump to Recipe

The cake is soft and moist, with the perfect balance of sweetness from the pineapple and richness from the coconut milk. The shredded coconut adds texture, while the cream cheese frosting lends a delightful tang that complements the tropical ingredients beautifully. Garnished with pineapple chunks and toasted coconut flakes, this cake is as gorgeous to look at as it is delicious to eat. Ready to dive into the details of how to make this tropical dream a reality? Let’s get started!

🛒 Ingredients for Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

This cake is divided into three main components: the cake itself, the frosting, and the garnish. Each element brings its own unique flavors and textures, combining to create a truly dreamy dessert.

For the Cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: Flour forms the base of the cake, giving it structure and a tender crumb.
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Baking powder acts as the leavening agent, helping the cake rise and giving it a light, fluffy texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: A touch of salt enhances the flavors in the cake, balancing the sweetness and bringing out the richness of the butter and coconut milk.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature: Butter adds richness and moisture to the cake, creating a tender and flavorful crumb. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sugar sweetens the cake and helps create a soft, moist texture.
• 5 large eggs: Eggs provide structure and richness to the cake, contributing to its tender crumb and helping to bind the ingredients together.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Vanilla extract adds warmth and depth to the flavor of the cake, enhancing the sweetness of the pineapple and coconut.
• 1 cup coconut milk: Coconut milk adds moisture and a rich, creamy texture to the cake while infusing it with a subtle coconut flavor.
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained: Crushed pineapple adds a burst of tropical sweetness and moisture to the cake, complementing the coconut perfectly.
• 1 cup shredded coconut: Shredded coconut adds texture and an extra layer of coconut flavor to the cake.

For the Garnish:

• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks: Pineapple chunks are used as a garnish to add a fresh, vibrant touch to the finished cake. Their bright flavor and juicy texture contrast beautifully with the creamy frosting.
• 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes: Toasted coconut flakes add a lovely crunch and a deep, nutty flavor to the cake. They also make for a stunning visual presentation.

For the Frosting:

• 3 cups cream cheese frosting: Cream cheese frosting adds a creamy, tangy layer that complements the sweet and tropical flavors of the cake. You can use homemade or store-bought frosting, depending on your preference.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it perfect for both beginner bakers and experienced dessert enthusiasts. Here’s how to create this tropical dream cake:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pans

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C): Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you begin baking to ensure even cooking.
2. Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans: This step is essential to prevent the cakes from sticking to the pans. Grease each pan with butter or non-stick spray, then dust with flour, tapping out any excess.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: Combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisking the dry ingredients helps distribute the baking powder evenly, ensuring a consistent rise in the cakes.
2. Set the dry ingredients aside: You’ll add them to the wet ingredients later.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

1. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together: Using an electric mixer, beat 1 cup of room temperature unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which results in a light, tender cake.
2. Add the eggs one at a time: Crack in 5 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to create a smooth, emulsified batter that will bake evenly.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract: Add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated. The vanilla adds a warm, fragrant note that complements the tropical flavors.

Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture: Start by adding about one-third of the flour mixture to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix on low speed until just combined. Then, add about half of the 1 cup of coconut milk and mix again. Continue alternating between the dry ingredients and the coconut milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. This ensures that the batter stays smooth and well-mixed.
2. Mix until just combined: Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense, tough cake. Stop mixing as soon as the dry ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 5: Add the Pineapple and Coconut

1. Fold in the crushed pineapple and shredded coconut: Using a spatula, gently fold in 1 cup of crushed pineapple (drained) and 1 cup of shredded coconut. This step adds texture and tropical flavor to the cake, making each bite a delicious combination of sweet pineapple and rich coconut.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans: Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly in each pan, making sure the layers are smooth and even.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. The cakes should be golden brown and set in the middle.
3. Cool the cakes: Once the cakes are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the cakes to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

Step 7: Frost and Assemble the Cake

1. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on one cake layer: Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting (about 1 cup) over the top, using a spatula to smooth it out evenly.
2. Add the second and third layers: Place the second cake layer on top of the frosted first layer, and repeat the process with another layer of frosting. Finally, add the third cake layer on top.
3. Frost the top and sides of the cake: Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it out for a clean finish. If you prefer a more rustic look, you can leave the frosting a bit more textured.

Step 8: Garnish the Cake

1. Top with pineapple chunks and toasted coconut flakes: For the finishing touch, garnish the top of the cake with 1/2 cup of pineapple chunks and 1/2 cup of toasted coconut flakes. The pineapple adds a pop of color and freshness, while the toasted coconut flakes add a delightful crunch and a deep, nutty flavor.
2. Serve and enjoy: Your Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake is now ready to serve! Slice into it and enjoy the layers of tropical flavor in every bite.

🍰 Tips and Tricks for the Best Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

1. Drain the Pineapple Well: Be sure to drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly before adding it to the cake batter. Excess moisture from the pineapple can make the cake too wet and heavy, affecting its texture.
2. Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: For the best flavor and texture, use full-fat coconut milk in this recipe. It adds richness and moisture to the cake, enhancing the coconut flavor.
3. Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a tender, light crumb.
4. Make Sure the Cakes Are Completely Cooled Before Frosting: It’s important to let the cakes cool completely before frosting them. If the cakes are even slightly warm, the frosting will melt and slide off, making it difficult to achieve a smooth finish.
5. Toast the Coconut for Extra Flavor: Toasting the coconut flakes for the garnish adds an extra layer of flavor to the cake. Simply spread the coconut flakes on a baking sheet and toast them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and fragrant.

🎉 Final Thoughts: Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake 🍍🥥🍰🧡🧡

This Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake is the ultimate tropical dessert. With its soft, tender layers, creamy frosting, and vibrant garnish, it’s sure to impress everyone who takes a bite. The combination of sweet pineapple, rich coconut, and tangy cream cheese frosting is simply irresistible, making this cake the perfect centerpiece for any special occasion.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a summer party, or just craving a taste of the tropics, this cake is guaranteed to deliver. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of this tropical dream. Happy baking! 🍍🥥🎂