My mother-in-law barely eats these days, but she absolutely devoured this! - Recipes Website

My mother-in-law barely eats these days, but she absolutely devoured this!

Directions:

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.

  2. Mix the batter: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix and pudding mix — this extra pudding mix is the secret to a super moist cake. Add water, oil (or melted butter), eggs, crushed pineapple with juice, and coconut extract. Mix with an electric mixer or whisk on medium speed until smooth and well combined.

  3. Bake: Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the irresistible aroma of pineapple and coconut.

  4. Cool completely: Let the cake cool fully in the pan on a wire rack. Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt, so patience here is key.

  5. Make the frosting: Beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, starting on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud, then increase to fluffy. Stir in vanilla and coconut extracts, then add heavy cream or milk tablespoon by tablespoon until smooth and spreadable.

  6. Toast the coconut: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the shredded coconut, stirring often until golden and fragrant. Watch carefully so it doesn’t burn!

  7. Assemble: Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Sprinkle generously with toasted coconut for a delightful crunch and tropical aroma.

  8. Optional: Add spoonfuls of extra crushed pineapple on top or serve alongside for an extra burst of pineapple goodness.

Tips & Variations:

  • Gluten-free: Swap in a gluten-free cake mix to suit dietary needs.

  • Nutty twist: Fold chopped macadamia nuts or toasted pecans into the batter for extra texture.

  • Coconut overload: Add shredded coconut right into the batter for a richer coconut flavor.

  • Serve chilled: This cake tastes incredible chilled — perfect for warm weather.

Final thoughts:

This Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a little tropical vacation on a plate. Each bite brings a wave of sweet, creamy bliss that’s sure to brighten your day or make your special occasion unforgettable. If it can win over my mother-in-law, who’s usually very picky and eats little, you know it’s something truly special.

Go ahead — slice yourself a piece of paradise. Your taste buds will thank you.