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Pineapple coconut cake

Pineapple Coconut Cake

This easy coconut cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday, or just a weekend treat.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (2–3)
  • Electric mixer or hand mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula
  • 9x13-inch Baking Pan
  • Cooling Rack
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup coconut milk
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple drained
  • ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut

For the Frosting:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 3 –4 cups powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup coconut milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut for topping

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray, then line it with parchment paper for easy cake removal.
  • Pro Tip: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking so the cake rises evenly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, and ¼ tsp salt.
  • Set aside.
  • Pro Tip: Sifting the flour helps avoid clumps and makes your cake extra light.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat ½ cup softened butter with 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
  • Add 3 eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  • Mix in 1 tsp vanilla extract.
  • Pro Tip: Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with ½ cup coconut milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients.
  • Fold in 1 cup drained crushed pineapple and ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut using a spatula.
  • Pro Tip: Fold gently to keep the batter airy and prevent a dense cake.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

  • Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  • Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

  • In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened butter until creamy.
  • Gradually add 3–4 cups powdered sugar, ¼ cup coconut milk, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
  • Pro Tip: If the frosting is too thick, add a little more coconut milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it spreads easily.

Step 7: Frost and Top the Cake

  • Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
  • Sprinkle ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut over the frosting for extra texture and flavor.
  • Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Notes

Nutritional Value (per serving, approximate):
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Sugars: 28 g
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
Share your thoughts! Rate and comment below if you tried this recipe.
 
Nutrition Disclaimer:
The nutritional information provided on this website is an estimate only and is intended for general guidance. We cannot guarantee its accuracy and recommend consulting a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition advice.
Keyword easy cake recipes, pineapple coconut cake