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A treasured family recipe spanning 35 years, this tropical-inspired cake combines buttery layers with fruity custard and clouds of whipped cream. Perfect for summer gatherings, it delivers refreshing flavors and delightful textures in every bite.
Through generations of family baking, we've discovered that quality ingredients and proper timing create the perfect balance of flavors.
Essential Ingredients
- For Cake:
- Unsalted Butter: Room temperature (3 sticks)
- Large Eggs: Room temperature (6)
- All-Purpose Flour: 3½ cups
- Whole Milk: For moisture
- Pure Vanilla Extract: Quality brand
- Granulated Sugar: For sweetness
- For Custard and Toppings:
- Fresh Pineapple: Or canned crushed
- Heavy Cream: For whipping
- Sweetened Coconut: For texture
- Maraschino Cherries: For garnish
- Pecan Halves: For crunch
Detailed Instructions
- 1. Cake Base Preparation:
- Position rack in middle of oven, heat to 350°F. Coat an 18x12-inch pan with cooking spray. Whisk flour and baking powder. Beat softened butter, sugar, vanilla, and salt until light and fluffy, 4-5 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
- 2. Cake Mixing:
- Add flour mixture alternating with milk in three additions, beginning and ending with flour. Mix just until combined. Spread evenly in prepared pan. Bake for 28-30 minutes until golden and toothpick comes out clean.
- 3. Custard Creation:
- Whisk egg yolks, whole egg, sugar, and cornstarch. Heat milk and remaining sugar to boil. Slowly whisk hot milk into egg mixture. Return to pan, cook until thickened. Add butter and vanilla. Chill with plastic wrap on surface.
- 4. Whipped Cream:
- Beat cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Refrigerate until assembly.
- 5. Assembly Process:
- Spread chilled custard over cooled cake. Top with diced pineapple, then whipped cream. Sprinkle with coconut, arrange cherries and pecans around edges.
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Storage and Serving Solutions
Perfect Timing: Make components ahead for easier assembly. Cake can be baked 1 day ahead; custard can be made and chilled up to 2 days. Whip cream and assemble just before serving for best results. Store assembled cake in refrigerator up to 3 days.
Perfect Pairings
- Tropical punch
- Coconut iced tea
- Fresh fruit platter
- Coffee or espresso
- Rum cocktails
- Ice-cold milk
Flavor Variations
Create family versions with:
- Chocolate cake base
- Mixed tropical fruits
- Different nuts
- Cream cheese frosting
- Passion fruit custard
- Rum-soaked cake
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Final Notes
The success of this cake lies in proper preparation and patience between layers. Take time with each component, and don't rush the chilling process. The result is a showstopping dessert that brings tropical flavors to any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this ahead?
- Yes, assemble up to 24 hours ahead and store in refrigerator.
- → Can I use canned pineapple?
- Yes, use drained crushed pineapple in 100% juice.
- → Why chill the custard with plastic wrap?
- Direct contact prevents a skin from forming on top.
- → Can I use a different pan size?
- Adjust baking time if using different size pan to ensure proper doneness.
- → How should I store leftovers?
- Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.