Tropical Dream Pina Colada Cake
Escape the winter chill and embrace a slice of summer with this Tropical Dream Pina Colada Cake. A festive delight perfect for special occasions, this cake combines fluffy yellow cake with juicy mandarin oranges and a rich coconut flavor that transports you straight to a warm beach. Topped with a luscious pineapple-infused Cool Whip frosting and a sprinkle of toasted coconut, each bite is a tropical getaway. Perfect for birthday celebrations, especially in December when you crave the warmth of summer vibes. Bring a taste of the tropics to your winter gatherings and savor the sweet embrace of the tropics all season long!
N/A
Servings
412.5
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
yellow butter recipe cake mix
1 box (none)
mandarin oranges
1 (11 ounce) can (undrained)
shredded coconut
1 cup (plus extra for topping)
vegetable oil
1/2 cup (none)
eggs
4 (none)
Cool Whip
1 (12 ounce) container (none)
crushed pineapple
1 (15 ounce) can (undrained)
instant vanilla pudding
1 (3.5 ounce) box (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three round cake pans.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, mandarin oranges (with their juice), shredded coconut, vegetable oil, and eggs. Blend until the ingredients are thoroughly mixed and the batter is smooth.
3
Divide the batter equally among the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops as needed.
4
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5
Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6
For the frosting, in a medium bowl, mix together the instant vanilla pudding and crushed pineapple (with juice) until combined.
7
Gently fold in the Cool Whip until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
8
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of the pineapple Cool Whip mixture on top.
9
Top with the second cake layer and repeat the frosting process. Add the third layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.
10
Sprinkle toasted coconut on top of the frosted cake for a decorative and flavorful finish.
11
Refrigerate the cake until ready to serve. Note: Keep in mind that the Cool Whip frosting may become runny if exposed to heat.
Nutrition Information
15g
Fat
52.5g
Carbs
4.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Tropical Dream Pina Colada Cake?
It is a festive tropical dessert that combines yellow cake mix with mandarin oranges, coconut, and a pineapple-infused Cool Whip frosting.
What type of cake mix is required for this recipe?
You should use one box of yellow butter recipe cake mix.
Should I drain the mandarin oranges before adding them to the batter?
No, the mandarin oranges should be used undrained, including their juice.
How many eggs are needed for the Tropical Dream Pina Colada Cake?
The recipe requires 4 eggs.
Is there coconut inside the cake batter?
Yes, one cup of shredded coconut is mixed directly into the cake batter.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
How many cake pans should I prepare?
The recipe calls for three round cake pans.
How long should the cake layers bake?
Bake the layers for approximately 25 minutes.
How do I know when the cake is finished baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
How long should the cakes cool in the pans?
Allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
What are the ingredients for the Pina Colada cake frosting?
The frosting consists of Cool Whip, crushed pineapple (undrained), and instant vanilla pudding.
Do I need to drain the crushed pineapple for the frosting?
No, use the crushed pineapple undrained with its juice.
What size of instant vanilla pudding is used?
Use one 3.5-ounce box of instant vanilla pudding mix.
How do I incorporate the Cool Whip into the frosting?
Gently fold the Cool Whip into the pudding and pineapple mixture until smooth and fluffy.
How should the cake be assembled?
Place one layer on a platter, frost the top, add the second layer, frost, add the third layer, and then frost the top and sides.
What can I use for a decorative garnish?
Sprinkle toasted coconut on top of the frosted cake for a flavorful finish.
Does this cake require refrigeration?
Yes, the cake should be refrigerated until you are ready to serve it.
Why is it important to keep the cake cool?
The Cool Whip frosting may become runny if it is exposed to heat for too long.
Is this cake suitable for winter celebrations?
Yes, it is specifically described as a great way to embrace summer vibes during winter gatherings.
How many calories are in one serving of this cake?
Each serving contains approximately 412.5 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 15 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a slice?
There are 52.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein does the cake provide?
The cake provides 4.5 grams of protein per serving.
How many total ingredients are used in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients used in this recipe.
Is this cake recipe considered easy?
Yes, one of the tags for this recipe is 'easy baking'.
Can I use vegetable oil in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe requires 1/2 cup of vegetable oil.
What size container of Cool Whip is needed?
You will need one 12-ounce container of Cool Whip.
Is this cake a good choice for a birthday?
Yes, it is recommended for birthday celebrations, particularly those in December.
Does the cake have a tropical flavor?
Yes, the combination of coconut, pineapple, and mandarin oranges gives it a distinct tropical profile.
What is the first step in making the Tropical Dream Pina Colada Cake?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 350°F and grease and flour three round cake pans.