If you’re dreaming of a dessert that feels like a sunny beach vacation in every bite, this Best Tropical Layered Poke Cake is exactly what you need. Picture moist, fluffy cake layers soaked with sweet tropical juices, layered with creamy frosting and topped with juicy pineapple, tangy mango, and a sprinkle of toasted coconut. It’s like a mini getaway on your plate—and trust me, this one’s a game-changer!
Why You’ll Love Best Tropical Layered Poke Cake
Here’s why this cake steals the spotlight:
Versatile: Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or just because you deserve a tropical treat.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples with fresh fruit to elevate the flavors.
Quick and Easy: Simple to assemble with minimal baking time and a fun poke technique.
Customizable: Swap fruits or add a splash of rum extract for an extra tropical twist.
Crowd-Pleasing: Bright, moist, and bursting with flavor — everyone will ask for seconds.
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Ingredients in Best Tropical Layered Poke Cake
Let’s break down the layers of deliciousness:
Yellow or white cake mix: The soft, tender base that soaks up all those juicy flavors.
Pineapple juice: The magic soak that keeps the cake moist and tropical.
Cream cheese frosting: Creamy, tangy, and the perfect pairing.
Fresh pineapple: Sweet and juicy chunks to top and layer.
Mango: Adds a vibrant, tangy contrast.
Toasted coconut flakes: Crunchy, nutty, and the ultimate finishing touch.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions for Best Tropical Layered Poke Cake
Ready for paradise? Let’s go!
Bake the Cake
Prepare your cake mix according to package instructions and bake in a 9×13-inch pan until a toothpick comes out clean.
Poke the Cake
Once cooled slightly, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes all over the cake’s surface. This lets the pineapple juice seep in and soak every bite.
Pour the Pineapple Juice
Slowly drizzle pineapple juice over the cake, letting it sink into the holes for maximum moistness.
Frost the Cake
Spread cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake, covering every nook and cranny.
Add the Tropical Toppings
Top with fresh pineapple chunks, diced mango, and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes for that final tropical pop.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: Approximately 350
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
How to Serve Best Tropical Layered Poke Cake
Here are some tasty ways to enjoy your tropical treat:
- Chill before serving: It tastes even better cold, making it perfect for warm days.
- Serve with coconut whipped cream: For an extra creamy, tropical finish.
- Pair with fresh fruit salad: To double down on the tropical vibes.
- Enjoy with a cold tropical drink: Think piña colada or mango smoothie.
Additional Tips
- Don’t skip toasting the coconut: It adds amazing flavor and crunch.
- Use fresh fruit for the best taste: Canned pineapple works too but fresh is gold.
- Adjust sweetness: If your fruit is super sweet, dial back the frosting sugar a bit.
- Try a rum extract: Just a splash adds a fun tropical twist.
- Make it dairy-free: Use a vegan frosting alternative and coconut milk.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A1: Yes! Use a gluten-free cake mix for a safe swap.
Q2: Can I prepare this cake ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! Make it a day in advance to let flavors meld.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Q4: Can I freeze the cake?
A4: Freezing is possible but may affect texture—freeze without fruit toppings for best results.
Q5: Can I use canned mango?
A5: Fresh is preferred, but canned works if drained well.
Q6: How do I get perfect poke holes?
A6: Use a wooden spoon handle or skewer, spaced evenly.
Q7: Can I make individual servings?
A7: Yes! Use cupcake pans and adjust cooking times accordingly.
Q8: Is this cake kid-friendly?
A8: Totally! The fruity sweetness is a hit with kids.
Q9: Can I add other tropical fruits?
A9: Pineapple, mango, papaya, and kiwi all work beautifully.
Q10: What’s the best frosting for this cake?
A10: Cream cheese frosting complements the tropical flavors perfectly.
Conclusion
This Best Tropical Layered Poke Cake is your ticket to a slice of sunshine anytime you want it. Bright, juicy, and delightfully creamy, it’s the kind of dessert that makes you smile with every bite. So, why wait? Bring a little tropical paradise into your kitchen and enjoy the deliciousness!
Print
Best Tropical Layered Poke Cake
- Total Time: 5 hours
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist, vibrant tropical poke cake layered with pineapple, coconut, and mango flavors, topped with fluffy whipped cream and toasted coconut for a refreshing dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 box white or yellow cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant coconut cream pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut, toasted
- 1 cup diced mango or canned mango chunks, drained
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the cake batter according to the package instructions and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Let cool completely.
- Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes evenly all over the cake.
- Pour the undrained crushed pineapple evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together instant coconut pudding mix and cold milk. Let it set for 5 minutes.
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the set pudding into the whipped cream to make a coconut cream topping.
- Spread the coconut cream mixture evenly over the pineapple-soaked cake.
- Top with diced mango and toasted shredded coconut.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
- To toast coconut, spread it in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Fresh mango works best, but canned or frozen mango can be used.
- For added texture, sprinkle chopped macadamia nuts on top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking, No-Bake Topping
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg