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A delicious slice of pineapple coconut cake topped with whipped cream, toasted coconut, fresh pineapple, and mint.
Daniel

Tropical Dream Pineapple Coconut Cake

Escape to the tropics with this incredibly moist pineapple coconut cake, layered with a luscious coconut cream cheese frosting and toasted coconut flakes. A truly irresistible dessert for any occasion.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 525

Ingredients
  

For the Pineapple Coconut Cake
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
  • 3 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple undrained
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup full-fat canned coconut milk well-shaken
For the Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese full-fat, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
  • 4 cups powdered sugar sifted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp coconut extract optional, for extra coconut flavor
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut toasted, for garnish

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch Baking Pan
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer (handheld or stand)
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Wire cooling rack

Method
 

To Make the Pineapple Coconut Cake
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan, or line with parchment paper leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the cake out later.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl using a handheld or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Beat in the vanilla extract.
  5. With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the coconut milk in two additions, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined; do not overmix.
  6. Using a spatula, gently fold in the entire can of undrained crushed pineapple and 1 cup of shredded coconut until just incorporated.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
To Make the Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting
  1. While the cake cools, you can toast the coconut for the topping. Spread 1 cup of shredded coconut on a baking sheet and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Watch it carefully as it can burn quickly. Set aside to cool.
  2. In a large bowl with an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter on medium speed until completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
  3. Turn the mixer to low and gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing until just combined. Add the vanilla and coconut extracts.
  4. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 2-3 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth.
  5. Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Sprinkle generously with the toasted coconut. Slice and serve.

Notes

Ensure all cold ingredients (butter, eggs, cream cheese) are at room temperature before you begin. This is crucial for a smooth batter and frosting.
Do not overmix the cake batter once you add the flour, as this can lead to a tough cake.
Make sure the cake is 100% cooled before frosting, otherwise the frosting will melt and slide off.
Storage: Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days due to the cream cheese frosting. For the best taste and texture, let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before serving.