Name: Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486877H57M18S
Total time: PT-486877H57M18S
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 box of yellow cake mix; 1 can of crushed pineapple (with juice); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 cup sugar; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 eggs; 1/4 cup milk; 1 cup shredded coconut (optional); Whipped cream or frosting for topping (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake combines the tropical delight of pineapple with the light fluffiness of cake to create a dessert that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The cake’s moist texture, along with the tangy pineapple topping, strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and zest. It’s a showstopper that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 box of yellow cake mix
1 can of crushed pineapple (with juice)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 eggs
1/4 cup milk
1 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Whipped cream or frosting for topping (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, milk, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until fully mixed and smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
Drain the pineapple, but reserve the juice. Add the pineapple over the batter evenly, spreading it out as much as possible.
Pour the reserved pineapple juice over the batter and pineapple.
If you’re using shredded coconut, sprinkle it evenly on top.
Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center of the cake.
Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Optionally, top with whipped cream or frosting for an extra indulgence.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 12 servings.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add nuts: You can add chopped walnuts or pecans on top for extra crunch and flavor.
Coconut cream: For an extra coconut kick, replace the milk with coconut milk or add coconut cream into the batter.
Pineapple slices: Instead of crushed pineapple, try using pineapple slices for a more visual presentation.
Frosting options: While whipped cream works perfectly, you can also use a light cream cheese frosting or a coconut-flavored frosting for an even richer experience.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store it for a longer period, place it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Reheating: To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm it up in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure it’s chopped into small pieces. Keep in mind that fresh pineapple has less moisture than canned, so you may want to add a bit of extra juice or milk.

Is it necessary to add coconut to the cake?

No, the coconut is optional. It adds a nice texture and flavor, but if you’re not a fan of coconut, you can leave it out.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the fridge. It will still taste delicious and moist when served.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

While the yellow cake mix pairs wonderfully with the pineapple, you can experiment with other cake flavors like white or butter cake mixes for a different taste.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

To check if the cake is fully baked, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. If it’s sticky or wet, bake for a few more minutes.

Can I freeze the Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake?

Yes, you can freeze this cake. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing for up to 2 months. Let it thaw before serving.

Can I use pineapple chunks instead of crushed pineapple?

Yes, you can use pineapple chunks if you prefer. Just chop them into smaller pieces to ensure an even distribution over the cake.

Do I need to drain the pineapple?

Yes, it’s important to drain the pineapple before placing it on the cake. However, be sure to keep the juice as you’ll use it to pour over the batter.

Can I make this cake without eggs?

You can make this cake egg-free by using an egg substitute like applesauce, mashed banana, or a commercial egg replacer. However, the texture may vary slightly.

Can I add frosting to this cake?

Yes, you can add frosting, although the cake is delicious on its own with just the pineapple topping. Cream cheese frosting or whipped cream both work well.

Conclusion

The Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a delightful dessert that brings a tropical vibe to any table. With its moist texture, refreshing pineapple flavor, and the option to add fun variations like coconut or nuts, it’s a dessert that’s sure to satisfy every sweet craving. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a simple treat, this cake is a guaranteed hit.

Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake