Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake!

🍍 Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake

🕒 Time

• Prep: 15 minutes

• Bake: 30–35 minutes

• Chill: 2 hours (recommended)

🍰 Servings

• 12–15 slices

🧾 Ingredients

Cake

• 1 box yellow or white cake mix

• 3 large eggs

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 1 cup crushed pineapple with juice (do NOT drain)

• ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut

Creamy Topping

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed

Finishing Touch

• ½–¾ cup sweetened shredded coconut

• Optional: toasted coconut for garnish

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Mix cake batter
   In a large bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, oil, and crushed pineapple with juice. Mix until smooth.
   Fold in shredded coconut.

3. Bake
   Pour batter into prepared dish.
   Bake 30–35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

4. Cool completely
   Let cake cool fully in the pan before frosting.

5. Prepare topping
   Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
   Gently fold in whipped topping.

6. Frost & finish
   Spread topping evenly over cooled cake.
   Sprinkle with shredded coconut (toast if desired).

7. Chill
   Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving for best texture and flavor.

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple?

A: Yes—but finely crush it and include the juice. Canned pineapple works best for consistent moisture.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! It’s even better the next day. Make up to 24 hours ahead and keep refrigerated.

Q: How should I store leftovers?

A: Cover tightly and refrigerate for 3–4 days.

Q: Can I make it less sweet?

A: Reduce powdered sugar to ¾ cup and use unsweetened coconut.

Q: Can I make it homemade instead of a cake mix?

A: Yes—use a basic white or yellow cake recipe and add the pineapple and coconut as directed.

Q: Can I freeze Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake?

A: You can freeze the cake without the topping for up to 2 months. Add topping after thawing.

Q: Any fun variations?

A:

• Add ½ cup chopped pecans

• Drizzle with sweetened condensed milk

• Add rum extract (½ tsp) for a piña colada vibe.