Description
Pineapple Heaven Cake is a tropical-inspired American dessert that’s perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks. This moist and flavorful yellow cake is enhanced with crushed pineapple and instant vanilla pudding mix in the batter, then topped with a creamy pineapple and whipped topping mixture, sprinkled with shredded coconut and garnished with maraschino cherries for an extra festive touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
Topping Ingredients
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)
- Maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, crushed pineapple with juice, water, and instant vanilla pudding mix. Use a hand mixer set to medium speed to beat the mixture for 2 minutes until the batter is well blended and smooth.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack to ensure the topping adheres properly.
- Prepare the Topping: In a medium bowl, gently fold together the whipped topping, drained crushed pineapple, and sweetened shredded coconut if using. Stir until evenly combined but still light and fluffy.
- Top the Cake: Spread the pineapple topping mixture evenly over the cooled cake, covering the entire surface.
- Chill and Garnish: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to set the topping. Before serving, optionally garnish the cake with maraschino cherries for a colorful, festive appearance.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, mix a small amount of pineapple juice into the whipped topping before folding in the pineapple and coconut.
- This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
- Perfect for summer gatherings or potluck events due to its refreshing tropical taste.
