Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake Recipe

Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a light, moist, and tropical dessert bursting with sweet pineapple flavor. Made with simple ingredients like yellow cake mix, crushed pineapple, and a creamy whipped topping, this cake is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Super moist and fluffy with a refreshing pineapple flavor
  • Easy to make with just a few ingredients
  • Great for parties, potlucks, or summer gatherings
  • No frosting needed—just a light, whipped topping
  • Can be made ahead for convenience

Ingredients

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

  • 1 box yellow cake mix
  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (with juice)
  • 3 eggs
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1 tub whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade)
  • ½ cup shredded coconut (optional, for topping)
  • Maraschino cherries (for garnish)

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Mix the batter: In a large bowl, combine cake mix, crushed pineapple (with juice), eggs, oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
  3. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  4. Cool: Let the cake cool completely before adding the topping.
  5. Top with whipped cream: Spread whipped topping evenly over the cooled cake.
  6. Garnish: Sprinkle with shredded coconut and place maraschino cherries on top.
  7. Chill & serve: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving for the best flavor.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 12-16
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes (plus chilling time)

Variations

  • Pina Colada Twist: Add coconut extract and rum flavoring to the batter.
  • Cream Cheese Frosting: Replace whipped topping with a pineapple cream cheese frosting.
  • Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top.
  • Extra Pineapple Flavor: Mix additional crushed pineapple into the whipped topping.
  • Lighter Version: Use a sugar-free cake mix and light whipped topping.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before serving.
  • Best Served: Chilled for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use white cake mix instead of yellow?

Yes! White cake mix works just as well for a lighter flavor.

Do I need to drain the pineapple?

No, use the juice for added moisture and flavor.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best when chilled, so making it a day ahead is ideal.

How do I make this cake dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free whipped topping and a dairy-free cake mix.

Can I add more fruit?

Yes, diced mango or banana slices make great additions.

How do I prevent the cake from being too sweet?

Use a reduced-sugar cake mix or cut back on the whipped topping.

What can I serve with this cake?

Fresh fruit, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Can I toast the coconut?

Yes, toasted coconut adds a richer flavor and a slight crunch.

Is this cake similar to dump cake?

Yes, but the batter is mixed instead of layered.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Absolutely! Just whip heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla.

Conclusion

Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a refreshing, tropical dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its light, fluffy texture and sweet pineapple flavor, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite. Try it today and enjoy a slice of heaven!

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Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake Recipe

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A light, moist, and fruity pineapple cake layered with whipped topping and crushed pineapple — a quick and easy dessert that tastes like tropical heaven.

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes (plus chilling time)
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple with juice
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 can crushed pineapple (20 oz), drained
  • 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz)
  • 1 container whipped topping (8 oz), thawed
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together cake mix, 1 cup crushed pineapple with juice, oil, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
  3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  4. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
  5. In a medium bowl, stir together the drained 20 oz crushed pineapple and vanilla pudding mix (do not prepare the pudding with milk).
  6. Fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
  7. Spread the pineapple-whipped topping mixture evenly over the cooled cake.
  8. Sprinkle with shredded coconut if desired.
  9. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

  • For extra pineapple flavor, poke holes in the cake and pour reserved pineapple juice over it before topping.
  • Best served cold — store leftovers in the refrigerator.
  • You can substitute yellow cake with white cake mix for a lighter version.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 340mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

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