Chef Mitchell preparing Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake during a family gathering in Hawaii. The combination of fresh pineapple and coconut instantly captivated me. After numerous trials, I finally perfected the recipe, capturing that sweet tropical flavor. Every bite brings back fond memories of those sunny days by the beach."

Chef Mitchell has over 10 years of experience specializing in American cuisine. He has a profound passion for creating desserts that not only taste amazing but also tell a story. His expertise is reflected in the numerous recipes he has successfully created for both home cooks and professional chefs.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake served on a plate

Why This Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake Recipe Works

This recipe for Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake stands out due to its unique blend of flavors and texture. The moist cake is made with crushed pineapple which adds natural sweetness and a hint of tanginess. Coupled with shredded coconut, it provides a tropical flair that’s hard to resist. Each layer is infused with rich flavors that create a symphony of taste.

The technique of alternating dry and wet ingredients ensures a tender crumb that remains moist even after baking. Additionally, the cream cheese frosting adds a luscious finish, balancing the sweetness of the cake perfectly. The result is a cake that looks as stunning as it tastes, making it an excellent choice for special occasions.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin. This allows for better mixing and a fluffier cake. Don’t skip the cooling time after baking, as it helps the cake set and makes frosting easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. Just add the frosting on the day you plan to serve it to keep it fresh and delicious.

If you’re not a fan of shredded coconut, you can substitute it with finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a different texture. Alternatively, you could use additional crushed pineapple or even chocolate chips for a fun twist.

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Additionally, the edges will start to pull away from the sides of the pan, and the top will be golden brown.

Yes, you can freeze the cake! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

This cake pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, such as slices of mango or strawberries, that complement its tropical flavors. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream also makes a lovely addition.

Properly stored in an airtight container, Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed fresh but still tastes great during this time.

Yes, you can prepare the cake layers in advance and freeze them. Just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn. Frosting can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a few days.

To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm. Avoid overheating, as this may dry the cake out. You can also enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your cake turns out too dry, it may be due to overbaking or using too much flour.

Solution: Make sure to measure your flour correctly, using the spoon and level method rather than packing it into the measuring cup. Check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time to prevent overbaking.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Sometimes the top of the cake may not have a nice crisp texture.

Solution: To achieve a crispier top, you can broil the cake for a couple of minutes after it’s baked, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. Alternatively, bake it a few minutes longer without letting it dry out.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If your cake is overcooked, it may have a tough texture.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, always check for doneness a few minutes early and use an oven thermometer for accuracy. Learning your oven’s quirks can also help adjust baking times.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked center can lead to a gooey texture.

Recovery: If the edges look done but the center is still wet, cover the cake with foil and bake it for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking periodically to ensure it doesn’t dry out.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can occur if the oven temperature is too high.

Prevention: To prevent a burnt exterior, reduce your oven temperature by 25°F and use the middle rack for even heat distribution. Make sure to rotate the cake halfway through baking.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If your cake is too sweet, consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If it’s too salty, adding more sugar can help balance the flavor.

Bland: If the cake tastes bland, enhance it with a splash of fresh lemon juice or additional vanilla extract for flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

Essential Ingredients for Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

The key ingredients for this cake include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and of course, the star ingredients: crushed pineapple and shredded coconut. Each adds moisture and flavor, ensuring a rich and delightful cake. Using high-quality coconut and ripe pineapple enhances the overall taste.

It's important to use fresh, non-sweetened shredded coconut for the best results. The crushed pineapple should be well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the batter. This attention to ingredient quality makes a significant difference in the final product.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • All-Purpose Flour: Using all-purpose flour gives a balanced structure to the cake. For a lighter texture, consider sifting it before measuring. Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent a dense cake.
  • Shredded Coconut: Opt for unsweetened shredded coconut for a more authentic taste. If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can use sweetened coconut, but reduce the sugar in the recipe slightly.
  • Crushed Pineapple: Make sure to use well-drained crushed pineapple to avoid adding too much moisture to the batter. Fresh pineapple can also be used for a more vibrant flavor, just be sure to chop it finely.
Cooking process for Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Following a step-by-step process is key to creating the perfect Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake. From preparing the batter to baking it just right, each step ensures the flavors meld beautifully. The combination of wet and dry ingredients is crucial for achieving the desired texture.

Be patient during the cooling process; letting the cake cool completely before frosting is essential for a clean finish. This also allows the flavors to deepen, resulting in a more delicious cake overall.

Key Technique for Perfect Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

The most important technique is to alternate the incorporation of dry and wet ingredients. This helps maintain the cake's moisture while achieving a light, fluffy texture. Additionally, proper creaming of the butter and sugar is essential for a great rise.

Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup sugar
    Granulated
  • 2 cups heavy cream
    For whipping
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    For flavor
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut
    For garnish

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    For the cake base
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
    Sweetness
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
    For flavor
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
    For moisture
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
    For richness
  • 1 cup buttermilk
    For tenderness
  • 3 large eggs
    For binding
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    For leavening
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
    For leavening
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    For flavor
  • 1/2 cup coconut flakes for topping
    For garnish
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
    For frosting

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Prepare Cake Batter

    In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

  3. Combine Dry Ingredients

    In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

  4. Mix Wet Ingredients

    In another bowl, combine buttermilk, crushed pineapple, and vanilla extract.

  5. Combine Mixtures

    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the wet ingredients. Fold in the shredded coconut.

  6. Bake the Cake

    Pour the batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  7. Cool the Cake

    Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

  8. Prepare Frosting

    In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with additional sugar and a bit of crushed pineapple until well blended.

  9. Frost the Cake

    Once the cake is completely cool, frost with the cream cheese mixture and top with coconut flakes.

  10. Serve and Enjoy

    Slice the cake and serve. Enjoy your delicious Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you live in a very humid area, consider refrigerating it to maintain freshness. Ensure that the cake is well covered to prevent it from drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake is best served chilled or at room temperature. You can garnish it with additional coconut flakes or fresh fruit for an extra touch. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience.

Recipe Variations

For a chocolate twist, consider adding cocoa powder to the batter or drizzling melted chocolate on top of the frosted cake. You can also experiment with different fruits like mango or banana for a unique flavor variation.