Here’s a recipe for a luscious and tropical Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp coconut extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained, but reserve juice)
- ½ cup coconut milk (or regular milk)
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- 1 tsp coconut extract
- 2-3 tbsp reserved pineapple juice (for consistency)
For Garnish:
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (toasted, optional)
- Pineapple slices or chunks (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
2. Make the Cake Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and coconut extracts.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the crushed pineapple and coconut milk, starting and ending with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined.
3. Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared 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 to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the Frosting:
- Beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time.
- Mix in the crushed pineapple, coconut extract, and 2 tbsp of reserved pineapple juice. Add more juice if needed for a spreadable consistency.
5. Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Press toasted coconut onto the sides of the cake and decorate with pineapple slices or chunks if desired.
6. Serve:
- Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Tips
- Make Ahead: Bake the cakes and make the frosting a day in advance. Assemble before serving.
- Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Enjoy this dreamy Pineapple Coconut Cake bursting with tropical flavors! 🍍🥥🎂
