If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a tropical vacation in every bite, this Pineapple Heaven Cake is exactly what you need. Imagine a soft, moist cake topped with a luscious pineapple filling and a dreamy whipped topping. It’s light, sweet, and oh-so-delicious! Whether you’re hosting a party, having a family gathering, or just craving something sweet, this cake is sure to impress everyone who gets a taste. Trust me, once you try this cake, you’ll be hooked for life!
Why You’ll Love Pineapple Heaven Cake
Here’s why this cake is an absolute favorite:
- Tropical Flavor: The sweet pineapple filling adds the perfect tropical twist that transports you straight to the beach. It’s the kind of cake that makes you feel like you’re in paradise.
- Super Moist: Thanks to the creamy filling and the whipped topping, the cake stays incredibly moist. No dry cake here!
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, this cake comes together with minimal effort and is a total showstopper.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, a summer BBQ, or just a cozy family dinner, this cake is versatile enough to be served at any event.
- Make Ahead: This cake actually gets better the longer it sits! You can make it ahead of time and let the flavors develop overnight, making it perfect for meal prepping.
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Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this Pineapple Heaven Cake to life:
- Yellow Cake Mix: The base of the cake, light and fluffy. You can use a box mix to save time, or make it from scratch if you prefer.
- Pineapple: The sweet and juicy filling! Use canned crushed pineapple, drained well to prevent excess moisture.
- Whipped Topping: This creates the light, airy topping that adds the perfect contrast to the pineapple filling.
- Cream Cheese: A key ingredient in the filling, giving it a rich, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the pineapple.
- Sugar: For the right level of sweetness in the filling.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla adds depth to the flavor.
- Butter: To make the cake extra moist and rich.
- Eggs: To bind the cake together and add a bit of fluffiness.
(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s walk through making this delicious cake from start to finish!
Prepare the Cake:
Start by baking the yellow cake mix according to the package instructions. You’ll usually need eggs, water, and oil. Once the cake is baked, let it cool completely. You can bake it the day before to save time!
Make the Pineapple Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the drained crushed pineapple, softened cream cheese, and sugar. Stir it all together until smooth and combined. This will create a creamy, pineapple-flavored filling that will go right in the middle of the cake.
Assemble the Cake:
Once the cake has cooled, cut the cake into small squares or poke holes all over the top using a fork (this helps the filling soak in). Spread the pineapple mixture evenly over the cake, making sure to cover it completely.
Top with Whipped Topping:
Now, spread the whipped topping over the pineapple filling, smoothing it out into an even layer. You can top it with extra crushed pineapple or even a sprinkle of shredded coconut if you like!
Chill:
Cover the cake and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or even overnight. The longer it sits, the more the flavors blend together, making it even more delicious!
Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, slice the cake into squares and watch everyone dig in. It’s light, creamy, and packed with tropical flavor—perfect for any occasion!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 250
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 210mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 21g
Protein: 2g
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
How to Serve Pineapple Heaven Cake
This cake is perfect for just about any occasion, but here are a few ideas to elevate your serving experience:
- For Summer BBQs: This cake is a great way to end a summer barbecue. The refreshing pineapple flavor is a cool, light finish after a hearty grilled meal.
- For Potlucks and Parties: It’s easy to make ahead and serves a crowd. You can even decorate it with some fresh pineapple slices or cherries on top for a tropical touch.
- As a Family Favorite: If you’re looking for a dessert that the whole family will enjoy, this one is a winner! It’s light enough that you won’t feel guilty having a second (or third) slice.
- Holiday Dessert: Whether it’s Easter, Christmas, or any special occasion, this cake makes a festive, sweet treat for the table.
Additional Tips
- Make it the Night Before: This cake is actually better after sitting overnight. The flavors meld together, and the cake becomes even more moist and flavorful.
- Experiment with Different Cake Mixes: While yellow cake is traditional, you can also try making this with white cake or even a coconut cake mix for an extra tropical twist.
- Add Toppings: If you want to jazz it up, sprinkle some shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or even a few maraschino cherries on top before serving. It’ll add extra texture and a beautiful pop of color!
- Substitute with Greek Yogurt: If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can replace the whipped topping with plain Greek yogurt and use a light cream cheese for a lower-fat version.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make this with fresh pineapple?
A1: Absolutely! Fresh pineapple will work perfectly, but make sure to finely chop it and drain out any excess juice before using it in the filling.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A2: Store the cake in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Q3: Can I freeze Pineapple Heaven Cake?
A3: While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the cake (without the whipped topping) for up to 1-2 months. Just let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Q4: Can I use a homemade cake instead of a cake mix?
A4: Absolutely! You can use a homemade yellow cake recipe if you prefer. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before adding the pineapple filling.
Q5: How long do I need to chill the cake?
A5: For the best texture and flavor, let the cake chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours. But if you can, chilling it overnight is even better!
Q6: Can I add nuts or coconut to the filling?
A6: Yes! You can add shredded coconut or chopped nuts to the pineapple filling if you like a little extra texture.
Conclusion
Pineapple Heaven Cake is the perfect dessert to make your taste buds sing. With its tropical pineapple filling, moist cake, and creamy topping, it’s a dessert everyone will rave about. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. Give it a try, and watch as everyone asks for seconds. It’s truly a little slice of heaven! Enjoy!
Print
Pineapple Heaven Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pineapple Heaven Cake is a deliciously light and fluffy dessert, perfect for those who love tropical flavors. Made with crushed pineapple, sour cream, and a simple glaze, it’s moist, sweet, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, holiday party, or just enjoying a sweet treat with coffee, this cake will impress everyone.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp pineapple juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick. - Prepare the dry ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. - Cream the butter and sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. - Add the eggs:
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. - Add the dry ingredients and sour cream:
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. - Fold in the pineapple:
Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple to avoid overmixing the batter. - Pour the batter and bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. - Cool the cake:
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. - Prepare the glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and pineapple juice to create a smooth glaze. Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid excess moisture in the cake.
- If you want to add more flavor, you can add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter.
- You can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
- For a more indulgent glaze, use a little bit of melted butter in place of the pineapple juice.
- Feel free to add coconut flakes to the batter for a tropical twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 33g
- Sodium: 160 mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg