Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake: A Tropical, Creamy Dessert That Melts in Your Mouth
If sunshine could be baked into a cake, it would taste exactly like this Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake. Bursting with tropical flavor, this dessert combines a moist pineapple-infused cake base, a sweet-tart pineapple filling, and a luscious cream cheese–pudding topping crowned with coconut. Every bite is soft, creamy, fruity, and downright irresistible—a crowd-pleaser at any potluck, family dinner, or summer party.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
• 1 box yellow cake mix (or white cake mix)
• 1 cup crushed pineapple (with juice)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut
For the Filling:
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (with juice)
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
For the Creamy Topping:
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 cup cold milk
• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• ½ cup shredded coconut (toasted or plain, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Make the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix, crushed pineapple with juice, vegetable oil, eggs, and coconut until well blended. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before adding the filling.
2. Prepare the Pineapple Filling
In a small saucepan, combine crushed pineapple (with juice), sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Spread the cooled filling evenly over the cooled cake.
3. Make the Creamy Topping
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the pudding mix and milk, then beat until thick and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined and fluffy. Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the pineapple layer.
4. Garnish & Chill
Sprinkle the top with shredded coconut—toast it lightly for an extra nutty, aromatic finish. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for the Perfect Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake
• Make It Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
• Toasted Coconut: For a deeper, richer flavor, toast the coconut in a dry skillet until golden brown before sprinkling it on top.
• From-Scratch Option: Replace the box mix with a homemade yellow cake base if you prefer a richer, buttery texture.
• Layer Cake Version: Divide the batter between two 9-inch round pans, then stack with filling and topping for an elegant presentation.
• Storage: Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled for the ultimate creamy texture. This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For an elegant touch, garnish each slice with a maraschino cherry or a slice of fresh pineapple.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes, but make sure to include the juice or add a few tablespoons of pineapple juice to keep the batter moist.
Q: Can I make this without pudding mix?
A: You can substitute homemade vanilla pudding—just make sure it’s fully cooled and thickened before folding in the whipped topping.
Q: How do I keep the topping from getting watery?
A: Make sure both the cake and filling are completely cool before adding the topping, and always chill before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes! Freeze tightly covered (without the toasted coconut topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add the topping before serving.
Q: Is this cake suitable for outdoor parties?
A: Since it contains cream cheese and whipped topping, it’s best kept cool. Store it in a chilled container or serve it shortly after removing from the fridge.
Conclusion
This Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a bite of tropical paradise. With its soft pineapple base, luscious creamy topping, and coconut-kissed finish, it delivers pure comfort and sunshine in every slice. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet, this no-fuss cake will have everyone coming back for seconds. Light, creamy, and full of flavor, it truly lives up to its name—it’s a dream come true for coconut lovers..