Hawaiian Pineapple Cake
Savor the tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut with this easy Hawaiian Pineapple Cake! A refreshing and crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- Cake Base:
- 1 box yellow or white cake mix
- 3 large eggs or as directed on cake mix package
- 1/3 cup oil or as directed on cake mix package
- 1 cup water or as directed on cake mix package
- Topping:
- 1 can 20 oz crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1 package 3.4 oz instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups milk whole or 2%
- 1 block 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tub 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts or pecans
- Splash of rum extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Base:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions, combining the mix, eggs, oil, and water.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool.
- Add the Pineapple Layer:
- Using a fork or skewer, poke holes all over the cooled cake.
- Evenly pour the crushed pineapple (along with the juice) over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.
- Prepare the Pudding Layer:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, pudding mix, and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Spread this mixture evenly over the pineapple layer.
- Add the Whipped Topping and Coconut:
- Spread the whipped topping over the pudding layer.
- Sprinkle shredded coconut evenly over the top.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to set.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy your tropical creation!
Notes
- For best results, use whole or 2% milk to ensure the pudding thickens properly.
- If time is short, soften cream cheese quickly by microwaving for 10–15 seconds.
- This cake tastes even better after a day in the fridge as the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.