Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

Featured in Irresistible Sweet Treats.

This easy cake transforms yellow cake mix into a tropical dessert with pineapple, coconut, and a sweet pineapple glaze.
Clare Greco
Updated on Mon, 20 Jan 2025 15:54:34 GMT
A close-up of a slice of layered cake topped with coconut flakes and pineapple garnishes on a decorative plate. Pin it
A close-up of a slice of layered cake topped with coconut flakes and pineapple garnishes on a decorative plate. | recipesbyclare.com

This Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake brings the tropics right to your kitchen. The combination of sweet pineapple and coconut creates pure magic in every bite making it perfect for any occasion.

What Makes This Special

The magic happens when that pineapple melts into the cake making it incredibly moist while the coconut adds amazing texture. It's simple enough for beginners but tastes like it came from a bakery.

Grab These Ingredients

  • Yellow Cake Mix: Makes it foolproof.
  • Fresh Pineapple: Canned works too.
  • Sweet Coconut: The fresher the better.
  • Quality Oil: Keeps it moist.
  • Fresh Eggs: For perfect texture.
  • Real Vanilla: Adds depth.

Let's Bake

Preheat your oven get your pan ready and mix everything until smooth. The batter should be silky and smell amazing.

A slice of layered pineapple cake topped with coconut flakes and pineapple pieces. Pin it
A slice of layered pineapple cake topped with coconut flakes and pineapple pieces. | recipesbyclare.com

Perfect Icing

The icing comes together quick just beat everything until smooth and creamy. Don't rush this step it's worth getting it just right.

Time to Serve

Let it cool completely before adding the icing. I love it chilled but room temperature is great too.

Keep It Fresh

Store it covered in the fridge it actually gets better after a day or two. The flavors have time to blend together.

Extra Tips

Toast some coconut for the top adds great crunch. Try using pineapple juice instead of milk in the batter for more tropical flavor.

A close-up of a slice of layered cake topped with whipped cream, toasted coconut, and pineapple chunks. Pin it
A close-up of a slice of layered cake topped with whipped cream, toasted coconut, and pineapple chunks. | recipesbyclare.com

Pro Advice

Fresh pineapple makes a big difference but drain it well. Nobody wants a soggy cake.

Great for Parties

This cake always disappears at gatherings. The tropical flavors make everyone feel like they're on vacation.

Make It Yours

Try adding rum extract or crushed macadamia nuts. The basic recipe is great but don't be afraid to experiment.

Perfect Summer Dessert

This cake screams summer fun. It's perfect for BBQs pool parties or any outdoor gathering.

A slice of layered cake topped with pineapple chunks and coconut flakes. Pin it
A slice of layered cake topped with pineapple chunks and coconut flakes. | recipesbyclare.com

Special Events

Add fresh pineapple slices and cherries on top for birthdays or holidays. Makes any celebration feel extra special.

Quick and Easy

Using a cake mix saves time without sacrificing flavor. Perfect when you need something impressive but don't have hours to spend baking.

Perfect Pairings

Serve with vanilla ice cream or tropical sorbet. A drizzle of caramel sauce takes it over the top.

Freezer Tips

Freeze without icing for up to a month. Perfect for planning ahead just thaw and add fresh icing when needed.

A slice of moist yellow cake layered with whipped cream, topped with coconut flakes and pineapple chunks. Pin it
A slice of moist yellow cake layered with whipped cream, topped with coconut flakes and pineapple chunks. | recipesbyclare.com

Healthier Options

Use light coconut and reduced fat milk to cut calories. Still tastes amazing just a bit lighter.

Everyone's Favorite

Even people who don't usually like coconut love this cake. The flavors blend perfectly nothing's overwhelming.

Always Reliable

This recipe never fails to impress. It's that perfect go-to dessert when you want something special but foolproof.

A slice of layered cake topped with whipped cream, toasted coconut, pineapple, and a mint leaf. Pin it
A slice of layered cake topped with whipped cream, toasted coconut, pineapple, and a mint leaf. | recipesbyclare.com

Start Baking

Get ready to bring the tropics to your kitchen. This cake is pure sunshine in every slice.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh pineapple?
Canned crushed pineapple works best as it's more consistent in moisture. If using fresh, drain well to avoid excess moisture.
→ Does this cake need refrigeration?
Yes, refrigerate due to the fresh fruit and glaze. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
→ Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, freeze unfrosted up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator and add glaze before serving.
→ What type of coconut should I use?
Sweetened shredded coconut works best. Unsweetened can be used but the cake will be less sweet.
→ Can I make this into cupcakes?
Yes, fill lined cupcake tins 2/3 full and bake for 18-22 minutes. Adjust glaze amount accordingly.

Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

A tropical-inspired cake combining crushed pineapple and coconut in a moist yellow base, topped with pineapple glaze.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
35 Minutes
Total Time
50 Minutes

Category: Sweet Treats

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 Servings (1 9x13 cake)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz).
02 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained.
03 1 cup shredded coconut.
04 ½ cup vegetable oil.
05 3 large eggs.
06 1 cup milk.
07 1 cup powdered sugar.
08 2 tablespoons pineapple juice.
09 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened.
10 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Instructions

Step 01

Heat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour 9x13-inch pan.

Step 02

Combine cake mix, oil, eggs, and milk. Fold in pineapple and coconut.

Step 03

Pour into pan, bake 30-35 minutes until toothpick comes clean. Cool completely.

Step 04

Beat powdered sugar, pineapple juice, butter, and vanilla until smooth.

Step 05

Spread icing over cooled cake. Cut into squares.

Notes

  1. Best served chilled or room temperature.
  2. Perfect for tropical theme dessert.
  3. Can be made ahead.

Tools You'll Need

  • 9x13 baking pan.
  • Mixing bowls.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (milk, butter).
  • Eggs.
  • Wheat (cake mix).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 15 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 45 g
  • Protein: 4 g