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

- Preheat the oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the batter: In a large bowl, combine cake mix, crushed pineapple (with juice), eggs, oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
- 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.
- Cool: Let the cake cool completely before adding the topping.
- Top with whipped cream: Spread whipped topping evenly over the cooled cake.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with shredded coconut and place maraschino cherries on top.
- 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!
PrintJuicy Pineapple Heaven Cake Recipe
A light, moist, and fruity pineapple cake layered with whipped topping and crushed pineapple — a quick and easy dessert that tastes like tropical heaven.
- 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
- 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
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together cake mix, 1 cup crushed pineapple with juice, oil, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- 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.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
- In a medium bowl, stir together the drained 20 oz crushed pineapple and vanilla pudding mix (do not prepare the pudding with milk).
- Fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
- Spread the pineapple-whipped topping mixture evenly over the cooled cake.
- Sprinkle with shredded coconut if desired.
- 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