- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for a light and airy cake.
- Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla and coconut extracts and mix until combined.
- Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the batter in three parts, alternating with the coconut milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in Pineapple and Coconut: Gently fold in the crushed pineapple and shredded coconut, being careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Divide the Batter: Evenly divide the batter between the two prepared cake pans.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
- Toast the Coconut: While the cakes are cooling, spread the shredded coconut for the frosting on a baking sheet and toast it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
- Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the chilled heavy cream with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
- Add Sugar and Flavorings: Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and coconut extract (if using), and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Layer the Cakes: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. If the top is domed, you can level it with a serrated knife. Spread a layer of frosting on top.
- Add Pineapple (Optional): If desired, sprinkle a layer of drained, crushed pineapple over the frosting.
- Top with Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top and press down gently. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the toasted coconut over the top and sides of the cake. You can also decorate with a few pieces of crushed pineapple if you like.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Chill (Optional): For best results, chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and the frosting set.
- Serve: Slice the cake and serve. Each bite should be a delightful combination of moist cake, creamy frosting, and the tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut.
Tips for Perfect Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake
- Drain the Pineapple Well: To avoid a soggy cake, make sure to drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly.
- Use Coconut Milk: Coconut milk adds richness and enhances the coconut flavor. If you don’t have coconut milk, you can substitute regular milk, but the coconut flavor won’t be as strong.
- Fresh or Canned Pineapple: You can use either fresh or canned pineapple. If using fresh, finely chop it before adding to the batter.
Variations
- Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Use the same batter but pour it over a layer of pineapple rings and brown sugar in the cake pan before baking.
- Pineapple Coconut Cupcakes: Turn this recipe into cupcakes by dividing the batter into cupcake liners and baking for 18-20 minutes.
- Pineapple Coconut Cream Cake: Add a layer of coconut pastry cream between the cake layers for an extra creamy treat.
Conclusion
This Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake is the perfect dessert to transport you to a tropical paradise. With its moist cake layers, fluffy coconut cream frosting, and a hint of tangy pineapple, it’s a cake that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a craving, this cake is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of the tropics. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to indulge in a slice of paradise!