Introduction

This coconut cream cake with pineapple jam filling is a true tropical dream come to life. Combining the sweet richness of coconut with the bright, tangy notes of pineapple, this cake delivers a flavor experience that is both refreshing and indulgent. From the very first bite, you’ll notice the moist texture and delicate crumb that sets it apart from other cakes.

Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, celebrating a holiday, or simply craving a luxurious dessert, this stunning cake will impress guests and family alike. Featuring a luscious pineapple jam center and a rich, coconut-flavored buttercream frosting, it offers a beautiful presentation perfect for special occasions. According to Babaganosh, tropical cakes like this one are ideal for year-round enjoyment thanks to their bright, sunny flavors. The layers, filled with juicy fruit and creamy frosting, also make every slice a showstopper.

Ingredients Overview

To make the best coconut cream cake with pineapple jam filling, you’ll need high-quality ingredients that complement one another perfectly.

Cake Components:

• Unsalted butter ensures a rich and tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar sweetens and lightens the cake’s texture.
• Large eggs add structure and moisture.
• Vanilla extract and coconut extract boost the tropical flavor.
• All-purpose flour provides the cake’s structure.
• Baking powder gives the batter lift and fluffiness.
• Salt enhances all the flavors.
• Coconut milk adds moisture and deep coconut richness.
• Shredded coconut infuses texture and chewiness throughout.

Pineapple Jam Filling:

• Pineapple jam delivers concentrated pineapple sweetness.
• Crushed pineapple (drained) brings bursts of juicy tropical flavor to every bite.

Frosting:

• Unsalted butter makes the frosting creamy and stable.
• Powdered sugar sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• Coconut milk ensures a smooth, spreadable consistency.
• Vanilla extract adds a hint of warmth.
• Toasted shredded coconut provides crunch and an irresistible nutty aroma.

Each ingredient in this recipe has been chosen to create a cake that is moist, flavorful, and unforgettable, as seen in the inspiration from Tastes Better From Scratch.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to make a perfect coconut cream cake with pineapple jam filling.

Preparation:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.

Making the Cake Batter:

• In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy using a stand or hand mixer.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Stir in the vanilla and coconut extracts to boost the tropical aroma.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with coconut milk, beginning and ending with the dry mixture.
• Gently fold in the shredded coconut using a spatula until evenly distributed.

Baking:

• Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Cool cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

Preparing the Pineapple Jam Filling:

• In a small bowl, combine the pineapple jam and drained crushed pineapple. Mix well.

Making the Frosting:

• In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until smooth and creamy.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with coconut milk, and beat until fluffy.
• Stir in the vanilla extract for a final flavor boost.

Assembling the Cake:

• Place one cake layer on your serving platter and spread half of the pineapple filling evenly across the top.
• Add the second cake layer and repeat the filling process.
• Top with the third layer and frost the top and sides of the cake generously with coconut frosting.
• Sprinkle toasted shredded coconut over the frosted cake for the final tropical touch.

Tips for Success

Achieving a flawless coconut cream cake with pineapple jam filling requires a few key tricks that every baker should know.

Ingredient Tips:

• Always use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth and even mixing.
• Shake the coconut milk thoroughly before opening the can to incorporate the fat and liquid evenly.

Baking Tips:

• Do not overmix the batter, as it can lead to a dense, tough cake instead of a light, tender crumb.
• Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake layers; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
• As recommended by Tastes Better From Scratch, avoid opening the oven door too early to prevent the cakes from collapsing.

Assembly Tips:

• Level the cake layers before stacking to ensure a stable and attractive finished cake.
• Chill the assembled cake for about 30 minutes before slicing to get clean, professional-looking cuts.

By following these expert tips, you’ll ensure your cake is not only delicious but also picture-perfect every time.

Variations and Substitutions

There are endless ways to customize your coconut cream cake with pineapple jam filling to better suit your tastes or dietary needs. Small changes can give it a new twist while preserving its tropical charm.

Flavor Variations:

• Add a splash of rum extract to the batter or frosting for a fun piña colada flavor profile.
• Incorporate lime zest into the frosting for a refreshing citrus zing that pairs beautifully with pineapple. For more tropical inspiration, check Constellation Inspiration.

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Swap out the buttercream frosting for cream cheese frosting to introduce a slight tanginess that complements the sweet pineapple jam.
• Replace pineapple jam with mango or passion fruit preserves if you prefer a different exotic flavor. This idea is also recommended by Sally’s Baking Addiction.

Dietary Adjustments:

• Use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make a gluten-free version without sacrificing the tender crumb.
• For a vegan-friendly dessert, substitute dairy-free butter and plant-based milk alternatives to maintain richness and moisture.

By tweaking ingredients thoughtfully, you can create a personalized version that everyone will love.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

When serving your coconut cream cake with pineapple jam filling, the goal is to highlight its vibrant tropical flavors.

Serving:

• Enjoy slices either chilled for a refreshing treat or at room temperature for maximum flavor.
• Pair each slice with tropical fruit like mango, kiwi, or a scoop of coconut ice cream for an elevated dessert experience.

Storage:

• Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve freshness for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months.

Proper storage helps retain the cake’s moistness and rich flavor, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the approximate nutrition per slice of coconut cream cake with pineapple jam filling:

• Calories: 400
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 4g

Please note that these numbers can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. If you’re adjusting for dietary needs, remember to re-calculate to maintain accuracy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

• Yes, you can substitute fresh pineapple for the canned version, but make sure it is finely chopped and well-drained to avoid excess moisture that could affect the cake’s structure.

How do I toast shredded coconut?

• Simply spread shredded coconut evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even browning and prevent burning, a method frequently recommended by top baking sites like Sally’s Baking Addiction.

Can I make the cake layers in advance?

• Absolutely. Wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage. Doing so can make final assembly much easier.

Is it necessary to use both vanilla and coconut extracts?

• Using both vanilla and coconut extracts provides a more complex and rounded flavor. However, if you prefer a simpler taste, you can stick to only one.

Can I make this cake in a different pan size?

• Yes, you can bake it in a 9×13-inch pan instead of using round layers. In this case, adjust the baking time to 35–40 minutes and monitor closely for doneness.

Conclusion

A slice of coconut cream cake with pineapple jam filling offers a tropical escape with every bite. The perfect balance of moist coconut layers and sweet pineapple filling makes it a standout dessert for any gathering.

Don’t hesitate to try this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe at your next event or weekend baking session. Plus, exploring different flavor variations keeps things exciting each time you make it.

If you enjoy experimenting with tropical flavors and stunning cakes, you’ll love the ideas and tips shared by passionate home bakers on Reddit. Give it a try and create your own tropical masterpiece today!

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