Ingredients
- For the Cake Layers:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup coconut milk (full fat)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 6 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons coconut milk (or heavy cream)
- For Decoration and Filling:
- 2 cups shredded sweetened coconut, toasted if desired
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained well
- 1 fresh pineapple, cut into wedges
- Almond slivers (optional)
- Small edible pineapple decorations (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
- Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, cream butter and oil together. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Alternately add dry ingredients and coconut milk to the wet mixture, mixing until combined. Stir in vanilla and shredded coconut.
- Divide the batter between the pans and bake for 30–35 minutes. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla and coconut milk to desired consistency.
- Level cake layers if needed. Place first layer on a plate, spread with frosting, and top with crushed pineapple. Add the second layer.
- Apply a crumb coat and chill for 15 minutes. Cover with a final thick coat of frosting.
- Press shredded coconut over the top and sides of the cake.
- Decorate with pineapple wedges, frosting swirls, and optional almond slivers or edible decorations.
- Chill until ready to serve.
Notes
- Use full-fat coconut milk for a rich, moist crumb.
- Drain pineapple thoroughly to prevent soggy layers.
- Chill the cake before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Toasted coconut adds flavor and texture—toast it in a dry pan or oven until golden.
- Let slices sit at room temperature before serving for best texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tropical
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 54g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
