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Pineapple and Coconut Dream Cake Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Pineapple and Coconut Dream Cake Recipe

I still remember the first time I made this Pineapple and Coconut Dream Cake - it was absolutely magical! The tropical flavors transported me straight to a sunny beach paradise. I've made this recipe dozens of times since then, and it never fails to impress my family and friends.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Dinner
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cake flour - Creates a tender light texture that's perfect for this fluffy cake
  • 1 cup granulated sugar - Provides sweetness and helps create the cake's structure
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder - Essential for that perfect rise and airy texture
  • ½ teaspoon salt - Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened - Adds richness; make sure it's room temperature for easy mixing
  • 3 large eggs - Provides structure and moisture; use fresh eggs for best results
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple juice - Use fresh juice for the most vibrant tropical flavor
  • ½ cup full-fat coconut milk - Creates moisture and adds authentic coconut taste
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple drained - Drain thoroughly to prevent soggy cake texture
  • 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut - Adds texture and intensifies the coconut flavor
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Enhances the overall flavor profile
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened - For the frosting base
  • 4 cups powdered sugar - Creates smooth sweet frosting
  • ½ cup butter softened - For creamy frosting texture
  • ¼ cup coconut cream - Makes the frosting extra rich and tropical

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two round cake pans thoroughly. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal. This preparation step ensures your cakes won't stick.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Sifting these ingredients creates an extra-light texture that makes this cake truly special.
  3. Beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This creaming process incorporates air, creating the cake's tender crumb and perfect texture.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in vanilla extract. This gradual process prevents the batter from curdling and ensures smooth incorporation.
  5. In a separate bowl, mix pineapple juice and coconut milk together. These tropical liquids will infuse every bite with amazing flavor and keep the cake incredibly moist.
  6. Add dry ingredients and wet ingredients alternately to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Mix just until combined to avoid tough, dense cake texture.
  7. Gently fold in drained crushed pineapple and shredded coconut using a rubber spatula. These additions create bursts of tropical flavor and delightful texture throughout each slice.
  8. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 28-32 minutes until golden brown. A toothpick inserted in center should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
  9. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks. Complete cooling is crucial before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
  10. Beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy, then gradually add powdered sugar and coconut cream. This creates a smooth, tropical frosting that complements the cake perfectly.