Pineapple Heaven Cake

There’s something magical about a dessert that brings a little sunshine to the table, and this Pineapple Heaven Cake does just that. Light, fruity, and perfectly sweet, this cake is a tropical delight that’s both easy to make and impossible to resist.

Growing up, pineapple desserts were always a treat in my family. Whether it was a classic pineapple upside-down cake or a simple fruit salad, the bright and tangy flavor of pineapple felt like pure happiness on a plate. This Pineapple Heaven Cake is a twist on those nostalgic flavors—an incredibly simple yet irresistible dessert that combines fluffy cake, creamy whipped topping, and the natural sweetness of pineapple.

this RECIPE FOR LATER

Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this cake truly lives up to its name. It’s soft, moist, and packed with tropical flavor—one bite, and you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make – With just a few simple ingredients, this cake comes together effortlessly.
• Light and Refreshing – The combination of whipped topping and pineapple gives it an airy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you’re making it for a summer party, a holiday dessert table, or just because, this cake is always a hit.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – It tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours, making it a great dessert to prepare in advance.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (with juice)
• 3 eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ cup shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)
• Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Pineapple Heaven Cake

This cake is as easy as mixing, baking, and layering—it’s truly a no-fuss dessert that anyone can make. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and crushed pineapple (with its juice). Stir until well mixed—you don’t even need a mixer for this! The pineapple juice adds all the moisture you need, making this cake incredibly soft and flavorful.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely. This step is important because we’ll be adding a creamy topping, and you don’t want it to melt!

Step 3: Make the Pudding Topping

While the cake cools, prepare the vanilla pudding mixture. In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, and powdered sugar until smooth. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken.

Once thickened, gently fold in the whipped topping. This creates a light, fluffy topping that pairs perfectly with the pineapple cake.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Once your cake is completely cool, spread the pudding mixture evenly over the top. Use a spatula to smooth it out.

If you’re adding shredded coconut, sprinkle it over the top for a little extra texture and tropical flair. You can also place a few maraschino cherries on top for a pop of color!

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This helps the pudding topping set and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Slice, serve, and enjoy a bite of pure pineapple heaven!

Helpful Tips

• Don’t Drain the Pineapple! – The juice is what keeps the cake moist and flavorful.
• Let the Cake Cool Completely – If you add the pudding topping while the cake is still warm, it may become runny.
• Chill for Best Results – This cake is even better when served cold, so give it time to set in the fridge.
• Make it Extra Fancy – Toast the coconut before sprinkling it on top for a nuttier flavor and added crunch.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 12 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

• This cake can easily be made a day in advance, and it actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge overnight!
• If you prefer a little crunch, you can add chopped pecans or walnuts on top.
• For a slightly tangier version, try using pineapple-flavored pudding mix instead of vanilla.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Note: These are approximate values and may vary depending on ingredient brands used.

• Calories: 280
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Sugar: 30g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cake mix?

Yes! While yellow cake mix gives the best flavor and texture, you can also use white cake mix or even pineapple cake mix for an extra boost of tropical taste.

How do I store leftover cake?

Store any leftover Pineapple Heaven Cake in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze just the cake base before adding the pudding topping. Wrap the baked cake in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw, add the topping, and refrigerate before serving.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the milk for almond or coconut milk and use a dairy-free whipped topping to make this a completely dairy-free dessert.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Pineapple Heaven Cake, here are a few more tropical-inspired desserts you might enjoy:

• Mango Lassi Tres Leches Cake

• Cappuccino Fudge Cheesecake

Conclusion

This Pineapple Heaven Cake is truly a slice of paradise. With its moist, fluffy texture and bright pineapple flavor, it’s a dessert that’s sure to bring a smile to your face. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just treating yourself to something sweet, this easy recipe is a must-try.

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