Description
Bring a taste of the tropics to your table with this Hawaiian Pineapple Cake Delight! This easy dessert layers moist vanilla cake with a sweet crushed pineapple syrup, creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and toasted coconut. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or any time you want something refreshing and indulgent. It’s one of the best easy dessert recipes for potlucks, quick baking ideas, and tropical food lovers. Great for summer gatherings, casual brunches, or anytime you’re craving a light and fruity cake.
Ingredients
1 box vanilla or yellow cake mix
3 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup water
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, drained slightly
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
1 cup toasted coconut flakes
6-8 maraschino cherries
4-6 pineapple slices (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Prepare the cake mix using the eggs, oil, and water as directed on the box. Pour into pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
3. While the cake bakes, heat crushed pineapple and sugar in a saucepan until bubbling. Set aside.
4. Once the cake is out of the oven and still warm, poke holes all over using a fork. Pour the pineapple mixture evenly over the cake.
5. Let the cake cool completely.
6. In a bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until thick. Spread over the cooled cake.
7. Top with a generous layer of whipped topping and spread evenly.
8. Sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes.
9. Garnish with pineapple slices and maraschino cherries.
10. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
Be sure to drain pineapple slightly to avoid a soggy cake.
Make it a day ahead to enhance flavor and texture.
Use stabilized whipped topping to maintain structure.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg