Tropical Bacardi Pina Colada Layer Cake
Indulge in the tropical flavors of the Caribbean with this decadent Tropical Bacardi Pina Colada Layer Cake. Each layer of the soft, rum-infused cake is complemented by a rich frosting made with luscious crushed pineapple and silky coconut cream. Perfect for celebrations, this cake brings a taste of paradise right to your table. Whether you're hosting a party or simply treating yourself, this dessert is a showstopper that will have everyone asking for seconds.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
white cake mix
1 package (dry)
instant coconut cream pudding mix
1 (4 ounce) package (dry)
dark rum
1/3 cup (for batter and frosting)
eggs
4 (beaten)
water
1/2 cup (room temperature)
oil
1/4 cup (vegetable or canola oil)
crushed pineapple
1 (8 ounce) can (in juice)
frozen whipped topping
1 (9 ounce) container (thawed)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Tropical Bacardi Pina Colada Layer Cake?
It is a decadent Caribbean-inspired dessert featuring rum-infused cake layers and a rich frosting made with pineapple and coconut cream.
Does this cake contain alcohol?
Yes, the recipe uses 1/3 cup of dark rum divided between the cake batter and the frosting.
What type of cake mix is required?
The recipe calls for one standard package of dry white cake mix.
What kind of pudding mix should I use?
You should use a 4-ounce package of dry instant coconut cream pudding mix.
How many eggs are needed for the batter?
The recipe requires 4 beaten eggs.
Can I substitute the dark rum?
While dark rum offers the best flavor, you can use light rum or a rum extract mixed with water for a non-alcoholic version.
What type of pineapple is used?
The recipe uses one 8-ounce can of crushed pineapple in juice.
Should the whipped topping be frozen when used?
No, the 9-ounce container of frozen whipped topping must be thawed before being folded into the frosting.
What kind of oil is best for this cake?
Vegetable or canola oil is recommended for the best texture.
How do I prepare the water for the batter?
The 1/2 cup of water should be at room temperature for optimal mixing.
Is this a layer cake?
Yes, it is specifically designed to be assembled as a tropical layer cake.
What makes the frosting silky?
The combination of coconut cream pudding, crushed pineapple, and whipped topping creates a silky, tropical frosting.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, but ensure it is very finely crushed and includes its natural juices to match the consistency of the canned version.
Is the pudding mix prepared before adding to the batter?
No, the pudding mix is added to the batter in its dry form.
How should I store the finished cake?
Because the frosting contains whipped topping and fruit, the cake should be stored in the refrigerator.
Is this cake suitable for celebrations?
Yes, its tropical flavor profile and layered presentation make it a showstopper for parties and special events.
Can I add coconut flakes to the recipe?
While not in the base ingredients, adding toasted coconut flakes as a garnish would complement the Pina Colada theme.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 primary ingredients: cake mix, pudding mix, dark rum, eggs, water, oil, crushed pineapple, and whipped topping.
What flavor is the pudding mix?
The recipe specifically requires coconut cream flavored instant pudding.
Can I use butter instead of oil?
Yes, you can substitute melted butter for the oil if you prefer a richer, more buttery crumb.
Is the cake mix used dry?
Yes, the package of white cake mix is added to the recipe dry.
What brand of rum is suggested?
The recipe title highlights Bacardi, but any high-quality dark rum will work.
How long does the cake last?
When kept refrigerated in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze the cake?
You can freeze the baked cake layers, but it is best to apply the whipped frosting fresh before serving.
Does the cake taste like a Pina Colada?
Yes, the combination of rum, pineapple, and coconut cream replicates the classic cocktail flavors.
What is the role of the pudding mix?
The instant pudding mix adds moisture, density, and intense coconut flavor to the cake.
Do I need to drain the pineapple juice?
No, use the crushed pineapple in its juice as specified in the ingredient list.
Is this a heavy or light cake?
The cake itself is moist and rich, while the whipped topping-based frosting keeps the overall dessert feeling light and tropical.
Can I use yellow cake mix instead?
Yes, yellow cake mix can be used, though it will change the color of the layers slightly.
What size is the whipped topping container?
The recipe calls for a 9-ounce container of frozen whipped topping.