Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

Preparation Time and Intensity

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes

• Baking Time: 25-30 minutes per cake layer (two layers)

• Assembly and Chill Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: Approximately 2.5 hours

• Difficulty Level: Moderate

• Servings: 12 slices

Ideal for bakers with some experience in layering and frosting cakes, but straightforward enough to follow with patience.

Ingredients

For the Coconut Cake

• 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour

• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon coconut extract

• 1 cup (240ml) canned coconut milk (full fat)

• 1/2 cup (120ml) crushed pineapple, drained

For the Pineapple Coconut Cream Filling and Frosting

• 1 1/2 cups (360ml) heavy whipping cream

• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon coconut extract

• 1 cup (240g) crushed pineapple, drained

• 1 cup (90g) shredded sweetened coconut, toasted

For Garnish (Optional)

• Toasted coconut flakes

• Pineapple slices or chunks

• Maraschino cherries

Equipment Needed

• Two 9-inch round cake pans

• Mixing bowls

• Electric mixer or stand mixer

• Cooling racks

• Spatula

• Parchment paper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Cake Layers

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

2. Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).

4. Add eggs: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla and coconut extracts.

5. Alternate wet and dry: Add flour mixture alternately with coconut milk, starting and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.

6. Fold in pineapple: Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple.

7. Bake: Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool: Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare Pineapple Coconut Cream

1. Whip cream: Using an electric mixer, whip heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, and coconut extract until stiff peaks form.

2. Fold in pineapple and coconut: Gently fold in crushed pineapple and toasted shredded coconut until evenly mixed. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Level cakes: If needed, level the tops of the cakes using a serrated knife for even stacking.

2. Layer and fill: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread about half of the pineapple coconut cream evenly over the top.

3. Top with second layer: Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining cream over the top and sides of the cake.

4. Smooth and chill: Smooth the frosting with a spatula and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Decorate: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the cake, and garnish with pineapple slices or chunks and maraschino cherries for a tropical look.

2. Serve: Slice and enjoy this dreamy tropical treat!

Tips for Success

• Use fresh or canned crushed pineapple but make sure to drain it well to avoid soggy cake.

• Toast the coconut by spreading shredded coconut on a baking sheet and baking at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown.

• Coconut extract is optional but enhances the tropical flavor beautifully.

• Chill the assembled cake before serving to allow the cream filling to set perfectly.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Based on 12 servings

Conclusion

The Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake is a luscious, tropical-inspired dessert that is perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or simply to brighten up any day. Its moist coconut cake layers paired with a creamy, fruity filling make it a showstopper that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Give your taste buds a vacation with every bite