Description

Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert featuring a tender yellow cake infused with crushed pineapple and vanilla pudding mix. Topped with a luscious pineapple and whipped topping mixture, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries, this cake is perfect for summer gatherings or any time you crave a tropical treat. Easy to prepare and even better the next day after chilling, this delightful poke cake balances sweetness and texture beautifully.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Batter

1 box yellow cake mix
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix

Topping

1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple (drained)
1/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)
Maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
Mix Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, undrained 20 oz can of crushed pineapple, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and dry instant vanilla pudding mix. Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature to prepare for the topping.
Prepare Topping: In a medium bowl, gently fold together the whipped topping and the drained 8 oz can of crushed pineapple until blended.
Assemble: Spread the pineapple topping evenly over the cooled cake, smoothing it out for an even layer.
Garnish and Chill: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the top and adorn with maraschino cherries if desired. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld and topping set.

Notes

This cake is even better the next day after chilling overnight, allowing the flavors to deepen.
You can substitute the vanilla pudding mix with coconut or pineapple-flavored pudding for a tropical variation.
For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to the topping.