
A Tropical Layer Cake That’s Light, Lush, and Loaded with Flavor
This Coconut Cake with Pineapple Filling is sunshine in every bite! Fluffy coconut layers are paired with a bright, tangy pineapple compote and finished with a dreamy coconut cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re hosting a summer celebration or just craving a tropical escape, this cake delivers both flavor and elegance in every slice.

⏲️ Prep & Chill Time
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Bake time: 30 minutes
- Cooling & Assembly: 1 hour
- Total: ~2 hours
📝 Ingredients
Coconut Cake Layers:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 Tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ⅔ cup coconut milk
- 1½ tsp coconut extract
- 5 egg whites
Pineapple Filling:
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple (with juice)
- ⅔ cup sugar
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch
Coconut Cream Cheese Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temp)
- 8 oz cream cheese (room temp)
- 4–5 cups powdered sugar
- 1–2 Tbsp coconut milk
- 1 cup shredded coconut (for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Bake the Coconut Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round pans.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Mix in coconut milk and coconut extract.
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites to stiff peaks.
- Gently fold flour mixture into the butter mix, alternating with egg whites.
- Divide batter between pans. Bake for 25–35 minutes. Cool completely and slice each in half horizontally for 4 layers.
2. Make the Pineapple Filling
- In a saucepan, combine crushed pineapple, sugar, and cornstarch.
- Cook over medium heat until thick and glossy (5–8 mins). Cool fully before using.
3. Prepare the Frosting
- Beat butter and cream cheese until creamy.
- Add powdered sugar gradually.
- Mix in coconut milk to reach your desired consistency. Beat until fluffy.
4. Assemble the Cake
- Layer cake and pineapple filling alternately.
- Apply a crumb coat and chill for 20 minutes.
- Frost fully and press shredded coconut onto the sides and top.
5. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate at least 30 minutes before slicing. Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
🍰 Nutrition Estimate (per slice, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: ~480
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fat: 26g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 42g
- Sodium: 240mg

This cake is a tropical dream—airy, fruity, and decadently creamy. The combination of coconut and pineapple brings a nostalgic flavor reminiscent of a piña colada, but in cake form. Whether served at Easter, Mother’s Day, or a summer birthday, this Coconut Cake with Pineapple Filling is guaranteed to be a showstopper.
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