Pineapple Paradise Cake

Pineapple Paradise Cake is a moist, tropical-flavored dessert that’s bursting with juicy pineapple, creamy whipped topping, and a rich, buttery cake base. This easy-to-make cake is light, refreshing, and perfect for summer parties, birthdays, or any occasion when you want a sweet, tropical treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Moist & Fluffy: The crushed pineapple keeps the cake soft and delicious.
• Easy to Make: Uses simple pantry ingredients with minimal prep time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for potlucks, BBQs, birthdays, or tropical-themed parties.
• Customizable: Add coconut, nuts, or extra fruit for more flavor.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better after chilling in the fridge!

Ingredients

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

For the Cake:

• All-purpose flour (or yellow cake mix for a shortcut)
• Granulated sugar
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Eggs
• Crushed pineapple (with juice)
• Vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• Whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)
• Cream cheese (softened)
• Powdered sugar
• Pineapple chunks or crushed pineapple (drained)
• Toasted coconut flakes (optional)
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Set to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   • In another bowl, mix butter, eggs, crushed pineapple with juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Mix & Pour:
   • Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until combined.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Bake for 30-35 Minutes:
   • Until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Cool Completely:
   • Let the cake cool before adding the topping.

Step 3: Make the Pineapple Cream Topping

1. Whip the Cream Cheese & Sugar:
   • Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Fold in Whipped Topping & Pineapple:
   • Gently mix in whipped topping and drained pineapple chunks.

Step 4: Assemble & Chill

1. Spread Topping Evenly:
   • Cover the cooled cake with the pineapple cream topping.
2. Add Garnishes:
   • Sprinkle with toasted coconut and chopped nuts (if using).
3. Chill for at Least 1 Hour:
   • For the best flavor, refrigerate before serving.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

• Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Variations

• Pina Colada Cake: Add coconut extract and rum flavoring for a boozy twist.
• Tropical Fruit Mix: Add mango or banana slices to the topping.
• Extra Moist: Brush the cake with pineapple juice before adding the topping.
• Layered Version: Make a two-layer cake with pineapple filling in between.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months (without topping). Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• No Reheating Needed: Best served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes! Just blend fresh pineapple and use an equal amount of juice.

Can I use a boxed cake mix?

Absolutely! A yellow or vanilla cake mix works great.

How do I make homemade whipped cream?

Whip 1 cup heavy cream + 2 tbsp powdered sugar until soft peaks form.

What’s the best way to toast coconut?

Bake shredded coconut at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! It’s even better after chilling overnight.

Do I have to refrigerate this cake?

Yes, because of the cream cheese topping.

Can I add bananas to the topping?

Yes! Add sliced bananas just before serving to prevent browning.

How do I make it less sweet?

Reduce the powdered sugar in the topping and use unsweetened coconut.

What can I serve with Pineapple Paradise Cake?

Pair with vanilla ice cream or a tropical fruit salad!

Can I bake this in a bundt pan?

Yes! Adjust baking time to 40-45 minutes.

Conclusion

Pineapple Paradise Cake is an irresistibly moist, tropical-flavored dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its sweet pineapple flavor, creamy whipped topping, and toasted coconut, this cake is sure to be a crowd favorite. Try it today and bring a taste of the tropics to your table!

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