Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake Recipe

Craving a tropical escape without leaving your kitchen? The Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake is your ticket to paradise! With its soft, moist crumb bursting with crushed pineapple and rich coconut milk, this cake offers a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and toasted coconut, it’s a dessert that looks as stunning as it tastes. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a summer gathering, or simply treating yourself, this dreamy cake will transport you to island bliss with every bite.

 

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Cooling & Assembly: 45 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Ingredients

   For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract (optional)

• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained

• 1 cup coconut milk

   For the Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 4 cups powdered sugar

• 1/4 cup coconut milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract (optional)

   For the Toppings (Optional):

• 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut, toasted

• Pineapple slices or chunks

• Maraschino cherries

 

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, oil, and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in vanilla and coconut extract.

5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and coconut milk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.

6. Gently fold in the crushed pineapple.

7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.

8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.

2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined.

3. Stir in coconut milk, vanilla, and coconut extract until the frosting is light and spreadable.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top.

2. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake, including the sides.

3. Gently press toasted coconut onto the sides of the cake.

4. Decorate the top with pineapple slices or chunks and maraschino cherries, if desired.

 

The Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a tropical experience in every bite. With its moist crumb, fruity bursts of pineapple, and the creamy touch of coconut, it brings sunshine to your table all year round. Whether you’re serving it at a celebration or savoring a quiet moment at home, this cake is sure to impress. So go ahead, cut yourself a slice of paradise—you deserve it!