Pina Colada Pound Cake Recipe

If you’re craving a tropical treat that feels like a mini vacation on your plate, this Pina Colada Pound Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with luscious flavors of pineapple, creamy coconut, and a tender buttery crumb, it’s a dessert that transports you straight to sandy shores with every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a special gathering or just indulging a sweet tooth on a quiet afternoon, this pound cake combines simplicity and elegance in the best possible way. Trust me, once you try this Pina Colada Pound Cake Recipe, it will be your go-to for unforgettable tropical flavor that’s just as easy to make as it is to love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a pretty essential role, creating layers of flavor and texture that make the cake sing. The simplicity of the ingredients keeps the focus on fresh, tropical goodness while delivering that rich, moist pound cake texture we all adore.

• Unsalted butter: Use softened butter for that rich, creamy base that keeps the cake moist and tender.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetness that helps create a delicate crumb and promotes browning.
• Large eggs: Eggs lend structure and a silky texture essential to any great pound cake.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the buttery and coconut flavors.
• Coconut extract (optional): A little extra coconut boost to enhance the tropical vibe, completely optional but highly recommended.
• Coconut milk: Brings creamy coconut richness without overpowering, also keeps the cake wonderfully moist.
• Crushed pineapple: The star ingredient offering juicy bursts of tropical sweetness and a hint of tang.
• All-purpose flour: Provides the foundation for the cake’s tender crumb.
• Baking powder: A gentle lift to keep the texture light.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Shredded sweetened coconut: Adds chewy texture and a toasted coconut flavor in every bite.
• Powdered sugar: For the luscious glaze that gives a sweet, tangy finish.
• Pineapple juice: Adds brightness to the glaze tying all the flavors together.
• Toasted coconut (optional): A perfect finishing touch that adds crunch and extra coconut aroma.

How to Make Pina Colada Pound Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or loaf pan thoroughly—this is crucial to ensure the cake comes out smoothly without sticking. A well-prepped pan means you’ll get that beautiful shape that makes the cake so inviting.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step traps air into the batter, helping the pound cake achieve its tender crumb.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Extracts

Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract and coconut extract (if you’re using it), which layer tropical warmth and complex sweetness into your batter.

Step 4: Mix in the Wet Ingredients

Pour in the coconut milk and the drained crushed pineapple. Be gentle as you fold these in to keep the texture light but evenly moist. These ingredients are responsible for the cake’s signature tropical flavor and moistness.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing lightly until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender and avoid a tough crumb.

Step 6: Fold in Coconut

Gently fold the shredded sweetened coconut into the batter for an added layer of chewy, sweet texture that complements the tropical pineapple perfectly.

Step 7: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Watch for browning, and if it happens too fast, cover the cake loosely with foil during the last 10-15 minutes to protect that golden crust.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time helps the flavors settle and the texture firm up just right for glazing.

Step 9: Make the Glaze

While the cake cools, whisk together powdered sugar, pineapple juice, coconut milk, and vanilla extract until smooth in a medium bowl. If the glaze feels too thick, simply add a splash more pineapple juice or milk to get the perfect pourable consistency.

Step 10: Glaze the Cake

Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled cake. Let it cascade down the sides for that beautiful visual and flavor boost. Sprinkle optional toasted coconut on top for a crunchy contrast and visual appeal.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy

Slice your Pina Colada Pound Cake Recipe and serve it up with pride. Each bite should offer moist cake with tropical sweetness that’s both decadent and refreshing. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is guaranteed to make you smile.

How to Serve Pina Colada Pound Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted coconut over the glaze is a simple yet stunning garnish. You can also add tiny pineapple chunks or even a few edible flowers for a tropical-themed presentation that just shouts celebration.

Side Dishes

It’s lovely alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea, where the cake’s sweetness complements the warm bitterness of your beverage. For a more indulgent experience, serve it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to enhance the creamy, tropical flavors even more.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the pound cake and layering it with whipped cream and fresh pineapple chunks for an easy tropical trifle. Alternatively, turn cubes of the cake into a fun dessert fondue by dipping them in melted chocolate or coconut caramel sauce. The tropical theme opens endless doors for playful presentations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover Pina Colada Pound Cake Recipe tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping it sealed protects it from drying out and preserves all that tropical moistness you worked so hard to create.

Freezing

This pound cake freezes beautifully! Wrap it well in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature, then refresh with glaze before serving.

Reheating

If you want that fresh-baked warmth, gently warm slices in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast them lightly in a skillet. This softens the texture and revives the cake’s tropical aroma, making each bite even more comforting and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of crushed pineapple?

Absolutely! Just make sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the batter, which could affect the cake’s texture. Fresh pineapple will give an extra bright flavor that’s wonderful in this recipe.

Is coconut extract necessary?

Not at all. Coconut extract is optional but adds a lovely intensity of coconut flavor. If you don’t have it, the shredded coconut and coconut milk still create plenty of tropical character on their own.

Can I substitute coconut milk with regular milk?

Yes, you can use whole milk instead of coconut milk if needed. The cake will still be delicious, though coconut milk adds a special richness and subtle coconut flavor that inspires the pina colada theme.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The best way is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. The edges should clear from the pan slightly, and the top should be golden brown.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You could try a gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary since gluten affects the cake’s structure. Make sure to use a blend designed for baking pound cakes for best results in texture and rise.

Final Thoughts

This Pina Colada Pound Cake Recipe is truly a star for anyone who loves tropical flavors wrapped in a rich, buttery pound cake. It’s approachable, impressive, and oh-so-satisfying—a dessert that makes you feel like you’re on a getaway without leaving your kitchen. Give it a try and let the sunshine flavors brighten your day!

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