Luscious Pink Dragon Fruit Layer Cake

The Luscious Pink Dragon Fruit Layer Cake is a stunning dessert that combines vibrant colors and tropical flavors. With layers of soft, flavorful cake infused with dragon fruit puree and frosted with a creamy dragon fruit buttercream, this cake is as delightful to eat as it is to behold, making it perfect for any special occasion.

Ingredients

Cake Layers:
2 cups cake flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup dragon fruit puree
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pink food coloring (optional)

Dragon Fruit Buttercream:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup dragon fruit puree
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pink food coloring (optional)

Decoration:
Fresh dragon fruit slices
Edible flowers (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with the buttermilk and dragon fruit puree, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Add pink food coloring if desired.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pans on wire racks for 10 minutes. Remove from pans and cool completely on wire racks.
7. For the dragon fruit buttercream, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, dragon fruit puree, vanilla extract, and pink food coloring (if using). Beat until light and fluffy.
8. To assemble the cake, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of dragon fruit buttercream on top. Repeat with the second and third cake layers, stacking them on top of each other.
9. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining dragon fruit buttercream.
10. Decorate with fresh dragon fruit slices and edible flowers if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 12-14 slices. The prep time is about 30 minutes, with a baking time of 25-30 minutes, bringing the total time to around 2 hours.

Variations

• Flavor Infusion: Experiment with other fruit purees such as mango or passion fruit for a different flavor profile.
• Layering: Add a layer of cream cheese frosting between the cake layers for added richness.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, serve chilled and do not attempt to reheat.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make the cake layers in advance?
   Yes, you can bake the layers a day ahead and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature.
2. What can I substitute for dragon fruit puree?
   You can use other tropical fruit purees like guava or passion fruit for a similar effect.
3. How can I ensure my buttercream is fluffy?
   Make sure to beat the butter thoroughly and add the powdered sugar gradually to prevent lumps.
4. Can I use different cake pans?
   Yes, you can use two 9-inch round pans instead, but adjust the baking time accordingly.
5. Is it possible to freeze this cake?
   Yes, you can freeze the cake layers before frosting. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
6. How do I make my cake more vibrant?
   Use a higher concentration of pink food coloring or combine it with other colors for a unique hue.
7. Can I use store-bought dragon fruit puree?
   Yes, using store-bought puree is a convenient option if available.
8. What kind of edible flowers can I use for decoration?
   Flowers like pansies, violets, or nasturtiums are great choices for a beautiful presentation.
9. Can I make this cake in a different size?
   Yes, you can adjust the recipe for cupcakes or a larger sheet cake; just modify baking times accordingly.
10. What occasions are suitable for this cake?
    This cake is perfect for birthdays, baby showers, or any tropical-themed gathering.

Conclusion

The Luscious Pink Dragon Fruit Layer Cake is a vibrant, tropical dessert that dazzles the senses. With its unique flavor and stunning presentation, it’s an excellent choice for celebrations or as a show-stopping treat. Impress your guests with this delightful cake that tastes as wonderful as it looks!

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