Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake
Description
A tropical paradise in cake form, featuring moist coconut-infused layers, crushed pineapple, and creamy coconut frosting. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you need a taste of the tropics.
Ingredients
Cake

1 box white cake mix
3 large eggs
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 cup pineapple juice
1 teaspoon coconut extract
1 cup shredded coconut

Pineapple Filling

1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 cup water

Coconut Cream Frosting

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 can (15 oz) cream of coconut
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping

2 cups shredded coconut, toasted
Fresh pineapple slices (optional)
Maraschino cherries (optional)

Instructions
Cake Preparation

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans
In large bowl, combine:

Cake mix
Eggs
Oil
Pineapple juice
Coconut extract

Beat until well combined
Fold in shredded coconut
Divide batter between pans
Bake 25-30 minutes until done

Pineapple Filling

In saucepan, combine:

Drained crushed pineapple
Sugar
Cornstarch mixed with water

Cook over medium heat until thickened
Cool completely

Frosting

Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth
Gradually add powdered sugar
Mix in cream of coconut and vanilla
Beat until light and fluffy

Assembly

Level cake layers if needed
Place first layer on cake plate
Spread with pineapple filling
Add second layer
Frost entire cake
Press toasted coconut onto sides and top

Tips for Success

Toast coconut until light golden brown
Drain pineapple very well to prevent soggy cake
Use room temperature ingredients for frosting
Chill cake between layers if needed
Store in refrigerator

Storage

Keep refrigerated up to 5 days
Can be frozen unfrosted for up to 2 months
Best served slightly chilled

Serving Suggestions

Garnish with fresh pineapple
Add maraschino cherries
Serve with vanilla ice cream
Pairs well with tropical punch

Make Ahead

Cake layers can be made 1 day ahead
Filling can be prepared 2 days ahead
Assemble day of serving for best results

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