Bacardi Pina Colada Cake

For a stronger rum flavor, brush each cake layer with additional rum before frosting.

To enhance the coconut flavor, toast the flaked coconut before sprinkling it on the cake.

For a decorative touch, garnish the top of the cake with fresh pineapple slices or maraschino cherries.

If you can't find coconut cream pudding mix, use vanilla pudding mix plus an additional 1/4 cup of water and 1 cup of flaked coconut in the batter of the cake.

High Altitude: Use 3 large eggs plus 2 tablespoons all purpose flour plus an additional 1/2 cup water (regardless of which pudding mix you use). Beat the batter for only 2 minutes. Baking time should remain the same.

Can I use a different type of rum like light rum?

You can use a different type of rum if you prefer. The flavor may change slightly, but it should still be delicious.

Can I omit the flaked coconut topping?

You can omit the flaked coconut topping if you prefer a smoother texture. It's optional for added flavor and decoration.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of crushed pineapple?

You can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to finely chop it to achieve a similar consistency to crushed pineapple in the frosting.

How should I store the leftover cake?

Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. It's best to cover it with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.

Can I make this cake in advance?

You can make this cake up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Electric Mixer: For beating the cake batter together to achieve a smooth and well-mixed consistency.

Cake Pans: Two or three 9-inch round cake pans are required to bake the cake layers. Make sure to grease and flour the pans to prevent sticking.

Wire Rack: Needed to cool the baked cake layers and allow air to circulate around them, preventing the cakes from becoming soggy.

Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl is necessary for combining the cake ingredients and beating them together.

Spatula: To spread the frosting evenly on top of each cake layer and to frost the sides of the cake for a smooth finish.

Cake Plate: For presenting the finished cake and serving slices to your guests. Choose a plate that complements the appearance of the cake.

Fresh fruit skewers: because nothing says "tropical vacation" like juicy, fresh fruit alongside a coconut-rum cake. The sweetness of the fruit will be a nice contrast to the rich decadence of the cake.

Coconut ice cream: pair a slice of this boozy cake with a scoop of creamy coconut ice cream for a double dose of tropical paradise. The cold ice cream will be the perfect complement to the rich cake.

Pineapple salsa: serve a dollop of tangy pineapple salsa on the side of your cake for a fun twist. The acidity of the pineapple will cut through the sweetness of the cake.

Wine Pairings
Riesling: Its natural sweetness and bright acidity can dance alongside the cake without stepping on its toes.

Prosecco: Fancy feeling bubbly? A dry Prosecco adds fizz and fun, cutting through the creaminess while complementing the pineapple's cheery vibe.

Gewurztraminer: Like a friend who gets all your inside jokes, this wine understands the cake's complex flavors, with its lychee and rose notes being a high-five to the coconut and pineapple.

Other Alcohol Pairings
Coconut Rum: If you're thinking, "More rum? Really?" Yes, really! Adding a splash of coconut rum to your glass echoes the cake's boozy whispers, turning whispers into a festive shout.

Pineapple Daiquiri: Why not continue the tropical theme with a cocktail that feels like vacation in a glass? It's a sweet, tangy companion that cheers on the cake's island flavors.

Rum Old Fashioned: For a twist, this richer, more contemplative drink offers a counterpoint to the cake's sweetness, bringing a smoky depth to your dessert experience.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Pineapple Coconut Water: Hydrating, refreshing, and thematically on point, it's like the cake, but you can sip it through a straw without getting frosting on your nose.

Sparkling Mango Juice: Bubbly, fruity, and fun, it brings its own tropical flair to the party without any alcohol.

Virgin Pina Colada: Because why should the rum have all the fun? Creamy, frothy, and sweet, it lets you enjoy all the flavors of your cake in liquid form, minus the booze.