Florida Cake
A vibrant, coconut and pineapple layered dessert with creamy topping and crunchy nuts, perfect for summer gatherings or tropical-themed celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make Jell-O as directed and refrigerate until syrupy or slightly set.
- Line a 9 x 13-inch pan with a layer of Salerno coconut bars, breaking them as needed to fill in the pan.
- Beat cream cheese until fluffy, then add butter and sugar, mixing well.
- Blend in drained crushed pineapple.
- Spread half of the pineapple mixture over the coconut bars in the pan.
- Add another layer of coconut bars and then cover with the remaining pineapple mixture.
- Beat the syrupy Jell-O on high speed for 10 minutes until frothy.
- Spread the frothy Jell-O on top of the layered ingredients.
- Let the dessert set in the refrigerator.
- Once set, top with Dream Whip or Cool Whip and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
- Refrigerate for 24 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before beating. You can substitute the crushed pineapple with diced fresh pineapple for a more vibrant flavor. If you prefer a nut-free dessert, simply omit the chopped nuts or replace them with shredded coconut for added texture. To enhance the tropical taste, consider adding shredded coconut to the cream cheese mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Florida Cake chilled, garnished with additional whipped topping and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added crunch. This dessert pairs beautifully with a tropical fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside grilled chicken or a fresh garden salad to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert can be enjoyed cold directly from the fridge, and it tends to taste even better after a day or two as the flavors meld. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Florida Cake contains roughly 244 calories, with 2g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 22g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of Jell-O for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of Jell-O, such as orange or pineapple, to create a unique twist on the classic Florida Cake. Just keep in mind that the color and taste will change accordingly, so choose a flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this dessert gluten-free?
To make Florida Cake gluten-free, ensure that the Salerno coconut bars are certified gluten-free, or substitute them with gluten-free graham crackers or a gluten-free cookie alternative. This will allow you to enjoy the dessert without gluten while maintaining its delicious flavor.
How can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Florida Cake can be made a day in advance, making it a great choice for gatherings. Prepare the layers and let the dessert set in the refrigerator overnight. Just remember to add the whipped topping and chopped nuts right before serving for the best texture and freshness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).