Strawberry Piña Colada Cake with Malibu Frosting

Directions

1. Preheat Oven & Prep Pans
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This ensures your cake layers release easily and stay intact.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, shredded coconut, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
   In another bowl, beat the softened butter, coconut milk, pineapple juice, Malibu rum, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Wet & Dry
   Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, mixing until fully combined.
5. Add Strawberry Puree
   Gently fold in the pureed strawberries. The batter should have a soft pink hue with evenly distributed strawberry flavor.
6. Bake the Cake
   Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
7. Prepare the Frosting
   While the cakes cool, beat the softened butter in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the Malibu rum, vanilla extract, and coconut cream, continuing to beat until light and fluffy.
8. Assemble the Cake
   Once the cakes are fully cooled, frost the first layer with a generous amount of Malibu frosting. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake evenly.
9. Garnish & Serve
   Top with shredded coconut and extra fresh strawberries if desired. Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature for a tropical delight!

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Calories: ~340 kcal per serving

Variations & Substitutions

• Non-Alcoholic Version: Substitute Malibu rum with coconut extract for the same flavor without the alcohol.
• Tropical Twist: Add crushed pineapple between the layers for extra juicy texture.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, coconut cream, and egg replacer.
• Berry Swap: Swap strawberries for raspberries or mango puree for a fruity variation.

Serving Suggestions