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This classic tropical layer cake has been perfected over three decades of family gatherings. Each buttery tier is filled with homemade fruit custard and topped with billowing whipped cream, creating a refreshing dessert that's perfect for warm weather celebrations.
The secret to this cake's success lies in using premium ingredients and following the precise timing for each component, resulting in perfectly balanced tropical flavors.
Key Ingredients
- Cake Base:
- Butter: 3 sticks, unsalted at room temp
- Eggs: 6 large, room temperature
- Flour: 3½ cups all-purpose
- Milk: Whole milk preferred
- Vanilla: Premium extract
- Sugar: Regular granulated
- Fillings & Decorations:
- Pineapple: Fresh or quality canned
- Cream: Heavy whipping
- Coconut: Sweetened flakes
- Cherries: Maraschino for garnish
- Pecans: Fresh halves
Step-by-Step Method
- 1. Prepare Cake:
- Center rack, preheat to 350°F. Grease 18x12 pan. Mix dry ingredients. Cream butter, sugar, vanilla, salt until fluffy (4-5 min). Beat in eggs one at a time.
- 2. Mix Batter:
- Alternate flour mixture and milk in thirds, starting/ending with flour. Mix until just combined. Spread in pan. Bake 28-30 min until golden.
- 3. Make Custard:
- Combine yolks, egg, sugar, cornstarch. Heat milk mixture. Temper eggs with hot milk. Cook until thick. Add butter, vanilla. Chill covered.
- 4. Prepare Cream:
- Whip cold cream with sugar and vanilla to stiff peaks. Chill until needed.
- 5. Layer Cake:
- Spread custard on cooled cake. Add pineapple layer, then whipped cream. Top with coconut, cherries, pecans.
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Storage Tips
Make-Ahead Guide: Bake cake 1 day ahead. Prepare custard up to 2 days in advance. Whip cream and assemble just before serving. Completed cake keeps in refrigerator for 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Tropical fruit punch
- Coconut-infused tea
- Fresh fruit selection
- Hot coffee service
- Tropical cocktails
- Cold milk
Recipe Variations
Customize with:
- Dark chocolate base
- Tropical fruit medley
- Alternative nuts
- Cream cheese topping
- Passion fruit filling
- Rum-infused layers
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Recipe Notes
Success comes from careful preparation and proper timing between stages. Each layer needs adequate chilling time. When done correctly, this cake becomes an impressive tropical centerpiece for any celebration.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare it in advance?
- Sure! You can assemble it a day before and keep it in the fridge.
- → Is canned pineapple okay to use?
- Absolutely, just make sure to drain canned crushed pineapple in 100% juice before using.
- → Why do I need plastic wrap on the cooling custard?
- Placing it directly on the surface stops a tough layer from forming.
- → Can I use a different sized pan?
- Yes, but baking times may need adjusting to ensure it cooks properly.
- → How do I store the leftovers?
- Pop them in the fridge, and they’ll stay fresh for up to three days.