Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake is a moist, tropical-inspired cake that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the richness of coconut. This cake is light, fluffy, and full of flavor, making it a perfect dessert for summer gatherings, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a dreamy treat.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (or use homemade if preferred)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice)
• 1/4 cup coconut milk (or whole milk)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut (for topping)
• 1/4 cup crushed pineapple (drained)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Cake Batter:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, shredded coconut, drained crushed pineapple (reserve the juice for later), coconut milk, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
   • Mix the ingredients until well combined and smooth, about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer or whisk.
3. Bake the Cake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
   • Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 2: Prepare the Frosting

1. Make the Frosting:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar, a little at a time, beating after each addition.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract.
   • Add the crushed pineapple and mix until fully incorporated.
2. Frost the Cake:
   • Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top of the cake.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

1. Add Coconut Topping:
   • Sprinkle the sweetened shredded coconut over the frosting for added texture and flavor.
2. Chill (Optional):
   • For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the cake for at least 1-2 hours before serving to allow the frosting to set.
3. Serve:
   • Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy the tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut in every bite!

Tips:

• Make it from Scratch: If you’d prefer to make the cake from scratch, you can substitute the cake mix with your favorite homemade yellow or coconut cake recipe.
• For Extra Moisture: You can add a little of the reserved pineapple juice to the cake batter to enhance the tropical flavor.
• Storage: This cake stays fresh for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

This Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake is a perfect combination of tropical flavors, making it a delightful treat for anyone who loves pineapple and coconut. Its creamy frosting and soft, moist cake will make it the star of your dessert table!