Description
This Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a tropical delight featuring moist yellow cake baked to perfection, soaked with a warm, sweet pineapple mixture, and topped with creamy vanilla pudding and whipped topping. Finished with a sprinkle of crunchy nuts, this 12-serving cake is perfect chilled and offers a refreshing tropical treat that’s easy to make for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box)
Pineapple Soak
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Topping
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- Amount of cold milk as per pudding mix box instructions (usually about 2 cups)
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Bake Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package directions, then pour the batter into a 9×13-inch pan and bake as instructed. Allow the cake to cool slightly once baked.
- Prepare Pineapple Mixture: While the cake is baking, combine the undrained crushed pineapple and sugar in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until the mixture starts bubbling, ensuring the sugar dissolves and flavors meld.
- Soak the Cake: Using a fork or skewer, poke holes all over the slightly warm cake to allow the pineapple mixture to seep in. Pour the warm pineapple mixture evenly over the cake and let it cool completely, allowing it to absorb the juicy flavors.
- Make the Pudding Topping: In a mixing bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with the cold milk according to the package instructions. Let it set for about 5 minutes until thickened. Then, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Cake: Spread the pudding and whipped topping mixture evenly over the fully cooled pineapple-soaked cake. If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added texture and flavor.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the topping to set. Serve chilled and enjoy your tropical pineapple heaven cake.
Notes
- You may use either pecans or walnuts based on your preference or dietary needs.
- For best results, allow the cake to chill overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- This cake can be kept refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- To reduce sugar, use sugar-free pudding mix and reduce added sugar slightly.
- Ensure the cake is only slightly warm when pouring the pineapple mixture to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
