If you’re a fan of the classic tropical cocktail, the piña colada, you’re going to love this dessert twist! This Best Ever Piña Colada Cake is a delightful combination of moist coconut cake layers, creamy pineapple filling, and fluffy whipped cream frosting. It’s like a taste of the tropics in every bite, perfect for summer parties, birthdays, or any special occasion. Follow this recipe to create a cake that will impress your friends and family with its delicious flavors and beautiful presentation.
Ingredients for Best Ever Piña Colada Cake
For the Coconut Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup coconut milk
For the Pineapple Filling:
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
For the Whipped Cream Frosting:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Toppings:
- Fresh pineapple slices
- Maraschino cherries
- Unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted
How to Make Best Ever Piña Colada Cake
1. Prepare the Coconut Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, shredded coconut, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the coconut milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Pineapple Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Gradually stir the cornstarch mixture into the pineapple mixture.
- Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the mixture has thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the pan from the heat and let the filling cool completely.
3. Prepare the Whipped Cream Frosting:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
4. Assemble the Cake:
- Place one of the cooled cake layers on a serving platter. Spread half of the pineapple filling over the cake layer.
- Top with a second cake layer and spread the remaining pineapple filling over it.
- Place the final cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the whipped cream frosting.
- Decorate the cake with fresh pineapple slices, maraschino cherries, and toasted coconut.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Slice and serve the cake, and enjoy the tropical flavors of this Best Ever Piña Colada Cake!
About the Main Ingredients
Coconut:
Coconut adds a rich and nutty flavor to the cake layers. It also provides texture and moisture, making the cake tender and delicious.
Pineapple:
Pineapple is the star of the filling, providing a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the coconut cake and whipped cream frosting.
Whipped Cream:
The whipped cream frosting is light and fluffy, adding a creamy element to the cake. It complements the tropical flavors of the cake and filling.
Vanilla Extract:
Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the cake and frosting, adding a warm and aromatic note to the dessert.
This Best Ever Piña Colada Cake is a tropical delight that will transport you to a sunny beach with every bite. The combination of coconut cake, pineapple filling, and whipped cream frosting is irresistible and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a summer party, or just craving a taste of the tropics, this cake is sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a slice of paradise!
