Tropical Paradise Ice Cream Cake

πŸ•’ Prep: 30 min
πŸ”₯ Cook:
🍽 Serves: 12
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Imagine a dessert that combines the refreshing taste of the tropics with the creamy delight of ice cream β€” that's what our Tropical Paradise Ice Cream Cake offers. Perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you want to capture that island vibe, this cake is a cool escape to paradise.

Ingredients for Tropical Paradise Ice Cream Cake

The base of this cake is made with graham cracker crumbs, creating a sturdy and slightly sweet crust that complements the flavors. Unsalted butter binds the crumbs together, giving the crust a rich taste. For a hint of extra tropical flavor, shredded coconut is sprinkled over the crust.

Next, we layer coconut ice cream, which is creamy and rich, followed by mango sorbet for a burst of fruity freshness. Fresh mango adds a juicy texture, while macadamia nuts provide a delightful crunch. The toasted coconut flakes on top not only look beautiful but also enhance the overall coconut flavor.

Finally, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract combine to create a luscious whipped topping that ties all the flavors together.

Tips & Tricks

  • For easier slicing, run your knife under hot water before cutting the cake.
  • Make sure each layer is fully set before adding the next to prevent them from mixing.
  • Toast the coconut flakes in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes to bring out their nutty flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This cake pairs beautifully with a light white wine or a refreshing tropical cocktail. If you’re hosting a party, serve it alongside a fruit salad with pineapple, kiwi, and papaya for a complete tropical theme.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it in the freezer until serving.
What if I can't find fresh mango?
You can use thawed frozen mango or even canned mango in a pinch.
Is there a substitute for macadamia nuts?
Pecans or walnuts can be used as a substitute, though they will alter the flavor slightly.

Tropical Paradise Ice Cream Cake Recipe Walkthrough

Start by greasing a 9-inch springform pan and lining the bottom with parchment paper. This will ensure your cake releases easily once it's frozen. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create your crust, and then sprinkle the shredded coconut on top, pressing it lightly into the crust.

Spread the coconut ice cream evenly over the crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Pop the pan into the freezer for about 30 minutes to let the ice cream set. Once it’s firm, layer on the mango sorbet, smoothing the surface again, and return to the freezer for another 30 minutes.

After the second layer has firmed up, scatter the diced mango and chopped macadamia nuts over the sorbet. Gently press them into the sorbet layer to ensure they stay put. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks, adding the powdered sugar and vanilla extract as you go. Spread this whipped cream over the top of the cake, creating a smooth finish.

Sprinkle the toasted coconut flakes on top as a garnish. Place the entire cake in the freezer for at least 4 hours or until it's completely firm. When you’re ready to serve, remove the cake from the springform pan and slice into wedges. Enjoy your tropical treat!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • A harmonious blend of coconut and mango for a taste of the tropics.
  • Easy to prepare, yet impressive enough for special occasions.
  • Perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, and fruity textures.

Ingredients

1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup shredded coconut
1 pint coconut ice cream
1 pint mango sorbet
1 cup fresh mango, diced
0.5 cup macadamia nuts, chopped
0.25 cup toasted coconut flakes
0.5 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
3. Sprinkle shredded coconut over the crust and press lightly.
4. Spread coconut ice cream evenly over the crust and smooth the top. Freeze for 30 minutes.
5. Layer mango sorbet over the coconut ice cream, smoothing the top. Freeze for another 30 minutes.
6. Distribute diced mango and chopped macadamia nuts over the sorbet layer. Gently press them into the sorbet.
7. In a mixing bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread over the top of the cake.
8. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes.
9. Freeze the cake for at least 4 hours or until firm.
10. To serve, remove the cake from the springform pan and slice into wedges.

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