Description
Pineapple Heaven Cake is a tropical delight featuring a moist yellow cake infused with crushed pineapple, a sweet pineapple topping, and a luscious whipped cream cheese layer. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion where you crave a refreshing, fruity treat.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
For the Pineapple Topping:
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
For the Whipped Topping:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
For Garnish (Optional):
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted
- Maraschino cherries
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
-
Make the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, crushed pineapple (with juice), vegetable oil, and eggs.
- Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and well combined.
-
Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely.
-
Prepare the Pineapple Topping
- In a small saucepan, combine the second can of crushed pineapple (with juice) and granulated sugar.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).
- Let cool.
-
Make the Whipped Topping
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in the whipped topping until light and fluffy.
-
Assemble the Cake
- Spread the pineapple topping evenly over the cooled cake.
- Spread the whipped topping mixture over the pineapple layer.
-
Garnish and Chill
- Sprinkle toasted coconut on top and garnish with maraschino cherries if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- For extra tropical flavor, add a teaspoon of coconut extract to the whipped topping.
- To make it less sweet, reduce the granulated sugar in the pineapple topping.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Tropical
