Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake Recipe

Tropical Magic: Irresistible Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake Recipe

Sweet memories of tropical vacations dance through this pineapple coconut dream cake, promising a delightful escape on your plate.

Sunshine-soaked flavors mingle with creamy coconut essence, creating a dessert that whispers of island breezes.

Soft layers of tender cake embrace juicy pineapple chunks, promising pure indulgence.

Delicate coconut frosting adds a luxurious touch that makes each bite feel like a mini celebration.

Texture and taste intertwine, crafting a dessert that feels both comforting and exotic.

Bakers with a passion for tropical treats will adore this simple yet stunning creation.

You’ll fall in love with every single slice of this dreamy confection.

Store Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake With Care

  • Store covered in an airtight container for up to 5 days, keeping cake moist and fresh by placing plastic wrap directly on the cut surface to prevent drying.
  • Wrap individual slices or whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for maximum 3 months; thaw at room temperature for best texture restoration.
  • Keep cake covered with clean kitchen towel for 1-2 days at room temperature, ensuring it stays away from direct sunlight and heat sources to maintain quality.
  • Warm individual slices in microwave for 15-20 seconds on medium power, or warm entire cake in preheated 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent excessive drying.

FAQ For Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

  • Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned crushed pineapple?

Yes, you can substitute fresh pineapple. Just ensure it’s finely chopped and well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the cake.

  • Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, making sure to use one that includes xanthan gum for better texture.

  • How do I know if I've overmixed the batter?

Stop mixing when the dry and wet ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense cake with a rubbery texture.

  • Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

You can slightly reduce the sugar, but it might affect the cake’s moisture and texture. If cutting back, use no more than 3/4 of the original amount.

Why Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake Feels Like A Vacation

  • Craft Quick Comfort: Perfect for busy bakers seeking a delightful dessert without complex techniques, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Tropical Treat: Bursting with pineapple and coconut, the cake brings vibrant island-inspired flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, making it ideal for gatherings and potlucks.
  • Stress-Free Baking Experience: Straightforward mixing method and simple ingredients ensure even novice bakers can create a professional-looking dessert that tastes like it came from a bakery.
  • Versatile Dessert Option: Suitable for multiple occasions from casual family dinners to special celebrations, this cake adapts easily and can be dressed up with powdered sugar or served plain.

What’s Inside Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

For the Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: The fundamental base that provides structure and volume to the cake.
  • Baking Powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake.
  • Ground Cinnamon: Adds a warm, aromatic spice that complements the tropical ingredients.
For the Wet Ingredients:
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake's rich texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
  • Vegetable Oil: Ensures moisture and softness in the cake.
  • Milk: Adds richness and helps create a smooth batter consistency.
  • Vanilla Extract: Introduces a classic, sweet flavor that enhances the overall taste.
  • Pineapple Juice: Infuses tropical brightness and moisture into the cake.
For the Mix-Ins:
  • Crushed Pineapple, Shredded Coconut: These ingredients bring tropical flavor, texture, and natural sweetness to the cake.
Optional Toppings:
  • Powdered Sugar, Shredded Coconut: Provide additional visual appeal and complementary flavor to the finished cake.

How To Bake Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a cozy 350°F and give your baking pan a generous butter massage to prevent any cake sticking drama.

Step 2: Create Dry Magic

Grab a large mixing bowl and sift together:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Ground cinnamon

Blend these ingredients until they’re perfectly combined and looking smooth.

Step 3: Whip Up Wet Wonders

In another bowl, transform eggs into a light and airy mixture. Then add and blend:
  • Granulated sugar
  • Vegetable oil
  • Milk
  • Vanilla extract
  • Pineapple juice

Whisk everything until the mixture looks silky and uniform.

Step 4: Marry the Mixtures

Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Use a delicate touch to keep the batter tender and avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Add Tropical Treasures

Fold in these delightful mix-ins:
  • Crushed pineapple
  • Shredded coconut

Distribute them evenly throughout the batter for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Step 6: Pan Preparation

Transfer the batter into your greased pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and banish any sneaky air bubbles.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick comes out clean with just a few crumbs.

Step 8: Cool Down

Let the cake rest in the pan for about an hour. Patience is key for the perfect texture.

Step 9: Dress It Up (Optional)

Sprinkle powdered sugar or shower with extra coconut to make your cake look as fabulous as it tastes.

Tips To Nail Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

  • Prevent Overmixing: Stir batter gently to keep cake texture light and fluffy, avoiding tough or dense results.
  • Moisture Mastery: Add pineapple juice and crushed pineapple to ensure a wonderfully moist and tender cake that stays soft.
  • Check Doneness Perfectly: Use the toothpick test by inserting it into the cake's center; clean or with minimal crumbs means it's ready to remove from oven.
  • Temperature Timing: Maintain consistent 350°F oven temperature for even baking and golden-brown exterior with perfectly cooked interior.
  • Coconut Crunch Tip: Toast shredded coconut briefly before adding to batter for enhanced nutty flavor and extra crispness.

New Styles For Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

  • Gluten-Free Tropical Cake: Replace wheat flour with almond or coconut flour for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the cake's rich, moist texture.
  • Vegan Pineapple Paradise: Substitute eggs with mashed banana or flax eggs, use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil, and choose plant-based milk to create a dairy-free, egg-free alternative.
  • Reduced-Sugar Wellness Cake: Swap granulated sugar with stevia, monk fruit sweetener, or honey to lower the overall sugar content while preserving the cake's delightful tropical flavor profile.
  • Nutty Island Variation: Add chopped macadamia nuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch and a more complex nutty undertone that complements the pineapple and coconut.

Tasty Matches For Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

  • Savor Tropical Beverage Companions: Tropical Rum Punch Pairing
  • Mix a refreshing rum punch with pineapple, orange juice, and a splash of grenadine to complement the cake's tropical flavors and enhance the pineapple-coconut notes.
  • Brew Complementary Coffee Harmony
  • Select a medium-roast Hawaiian or Kona coffee with subtle caramel undertones that will beautifully highlight the cake's sweet and rich profile without overwhelming its delicate texture.
  • Create Creamy Vanilla Beverage Accent
  • Whip up a vanilla bean milkshake or creamy vanilla latte that echoes the cake's soft coconut and pineapple elements, providing a smooth and luxurious drinking experience.
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Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake Recipe

Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake Recipe


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4.7 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 55-60 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Tropical paradise meets dessert bliss in this pineapple coconut dream cake, a sweet escape from ordinary baking. Layers of moist coconut cake, tangy pineapple filling, and creamy frosting will transport you to a sun-drenched island getaway.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple
  • 2 large eggs

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice

Leavening and Seasoning:

  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and thoroughly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure smooth cake release.
  2. Sift together flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon in a large mixing bowl, creating a uniform dry ingredient base.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs until they become light and frothy, then incorporate granulated sugar, vegetable oil, milk, vanilla extract, and pineapple juice until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
  4. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredient mixture, stirring carefully to prevent overmixing and maintain a tender cake texture.
  5. Incorporate crushed pineapple and shredded coconut into the batter, distributing them evenly throughout for consistent flavor and texture.
  6. Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and eliminate any air pockets.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with minimal crumbs.
  8. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour before slicing and serving.
  9. Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or top with additional shredded coconut for extra visual appeal and flavor enhancement.

Notes

  • Opt for fresh pineapple juice for a more vibrant, natural sweetness that elevates the cake’s tropical essence.
  • Drain crushed pineapple thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the cake soggy or dense.
  • Toast coconut flakes lightly before adding to the batter for an enhanced nutty flavor and delightful crunch.
  • Replace vegetable oil with coconut oil to intensify the tropical profile and create a more pronounced coconut undertone.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 245
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 120 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 38 mg
Mia Thompson

Mia Thompson

Pastry Chef & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Creating wholesome, seasonal desserts with a focus on nutrition.
  • Developing recipes on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Experimenting with plant-based and gluten-free recipes.​

Education

Portland Community College – Baking and Pastry Arts Program
Specialized in artisanal bread, seasonal desserts, and sustainable baking methods.

National University of Natural Medicine – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BScN)
Focused on “Food as Medicine” philosophy, with core threads in nutrition.


Mia’s love affair with baking began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where sneaking spoonfuls of batter first sparked her curiosity. She refined her skills through Portland Community College’s Baking and Pastry Arts Program and her expertise at the National University of Natural Medicine, earning a B.Sc. in Nutrition.
At The Scrumptious Pumpkin, Mia reimagines classics with effortless seasonal treats, healthier twists on old favorites, and playful confections that feel like pure joy. Beyond the oven, she nurtures her urban garden, forages local ingredients around Portland, and leads hands‑on nutrition workshops for her community.

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