This Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a light, airy, and incredibly moist dessert that’s bursting with tropical flavor. Made from an angel food cake mix and loaded with crushed pineapple in every bite, it’s topped with a creamy pineapple-flavored whipped topping that makes this cake feel like pure sunshine.
Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you need a taste of the tropics!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🍍 Pineapple Perfection: Every layer is packed with juicy pineapple flavor—both in the cake and topping.
- 🥣 No Mixer Needed: Just stir together and pour—it couldn’t be easier.
- ☁️ Light & Airy Base: Angel food cake gives a soft, sponge-like texture without being heavy.
- ⏱️ Quick & Easy: From pantry ingredients to finished cake in under an hour.
- 🎉 Crowd-Pleasing: A favorite at family dinners, church events, and backyard barbecues.
Ingredients (Serves 12–15):
For the Cake:
- 1 box angel food cake mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain – use the whole can)
For the Topping:
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple in juice , drained (for topping)
Optional Garnish:
- Maraschino cherries (drained)
- Shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish well to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Angel food cake mix
- Whole 20 oz can of crushed pineapple (with juice)
Stir until everything is fully incorporated. The mixture will be thick and foamy—that’s normal!
Step 3: Bake Until Golden
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 25–30 minutes , or until golden around the edges and set in the center.
Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before adding the topping.
Step 4: Mix the Creamy Topping
In a separate bowl, combine:
- Whipped topping (thawed)
- Vanilla pudding mix
- Drained crushed pineapple (8 oz can)
Mix gently until smooth and slightly thickened.
Tip: Let the topping chill in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm up if needed.
Step 5: Spread the Topping
Once the cake is fully cooled, spread the pineapple pudding mixture evenly over the top.
Smooth it out with a spatula for a clean finish.
Step 6: Garnish & Chill
Sprinkle with shredded coconut and press maraschino cherries lightly into the topping.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors settle and the topping set.
Tips for Success:
- 🧊 Don’t Skip Chilling: The topping firms up best after time in the fridge.
- 🍴 Make Ahead Friendly: Assemble the night before and keep chilled for next-day serving.
- 🥥 Coconut Lovers: Toast the shredded coconut for extra flavor before sprinkling.
- 🍓 Fruit Swap: Try mandarin oranges or diced mango for more tropical flair.
- 🧁 Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan whipped topping and pudding for a dairy-free version.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with black tea, lemonade, or a cold glass of milk.
- Great for birthday parties, baby showers, or afternoon tea.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approx. 12 servings):
(Without optional garnishes)
- Calories: ~200 kcal
- Protein: ~3g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fat: ~8g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~18g
This Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a sweet, soft, and fruity dessert that feels like a vacation in every bite. With its sponge-like texture and creamy pineapple topping—it’s the perfect pick-me-up for any day.
So go ahead and make this today… because sometimes, life needs a little tropical magic.
