Tropical Coconut-Pineapple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Embrace the flavors of the tropics with this gluten-free cake, rich with the essence of pineapple, coconut, and pecans, topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting.

Cake Ingredients:

• 2 and ¾ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
• 2 and ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 large eggs
• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 and ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup oat milk mixed with 1 teaspoon vinegar)
• ½ cup crushed pineapple, excess juice removed
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 and ¼ cups pecans, chopped

Frosting Ingredients:

• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 8 cups powdered sugar
• Additional chopped pecans and coconut flakes for decoration

Cake Preparation:

1. Heat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and coat two 8-inch round cake pans with non-stick baking spray. This recipe is also suitable for a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Beat in the eggs, followed by the vanilla and almond extracts, and then the buttermilk.
4. Stir in the gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until just combined.
5. Fold in the pineapple, coconut, and chopped pecans without overmixing.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool completely before frosting.

Frosting and Assembly:

1. For the frosting, blend the cream cheese with vanilla and almond extracts until smooth.
2. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, continuing to mix until the frosting is creamy and lump-free.
3. Once the cakes are cooled, apply the frosting between the layers and over the top and sides of the cake.
4. If desired, press additional chopped pecans and coconut flakes onto the sides or top of the cake for a decorative touch.

Slice this luscious Tropical Coconut-Pineapple Cake and serve to delight in its moist, flavorful crumb and rich frosting—a treat that's sure to transport you straight to island bliss!