The Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake is a tropical delight that combines the tangy sweetness of pineapple with the creamy richness of coconut. This luscious dessert is perfect for special occasions, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving a little taste of the tropics. With its moist layers and decadent frosting, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp coconut extract (optional)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup coconut milk
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut (for topping)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. - Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and coconut extracts. - Add Wet and Dry Ingredients Alternately:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the coconut milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Gently fold in the crushed pineapple until evenly distributed. - Bake the Cake Layers:
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. - Prepare the Frosting:
In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, alternating with the pineapple juice. Beat until smooth and fluffy. - Assemble the Cake:
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer over it and frost the top and sides. Sprinkle shredded coconut over the cake as a finishing touch. - Serve and Enjoy:
Chill the cake for 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set. Slice and enjoy your tropical Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake!
Calories:
Approximately 450 calories per slice (based on 12 servings).
Healthy or Non-Healthy:
This cake is indulgent and classified as non-healthy due to its sugar and butter content. However, you can make healthier substitutions, such as using whole-grain flour, reducing sugar, or swapping coconut cream for lower-fat alternatives.
Enjoy this dreamy dessert and transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise! 🌴🍍🥥