Looking for a light, fruity, and ultra-moist dessert that melts in your mouth? This Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is the perfect tropical treat. Packed with crushed pineapple, whipped topping, and a buttery vanilla base, it’s a no-fuss dessert that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, need a make-ahead party dessert, or just want something sweet and refreshing, this pineapple cake will make you feel like you’re in dessert paradise.
Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Heaven Cake
- Super moist and juicy thanks to the crushed pineapple
- Quick & easy with just a handful of ingredients
- No fancy equipment needed – one bowl and a baking dish
- Perfect for parties – light, fluffy, and easy to serve
- Tastes like sunshine – sweet, tangy, and tropical
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow or vanilla cake mix
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla or pineapple pudding mix
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- ¼ cup shredded coconut (optional)
- Cherries or fresh pineapple slices, for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, crushed pineapple with juice, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and well combined.
Tip: Don’t overmix! Just until everything is blended smoothly.
3. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
4. Prepare the Topping
In a medium bowl, fold together the whipped topping, instant pudding mix, and drained pineapple until smooth and fluffy.
Optional: Add shredded coconut for extra tropical flavor.
5. Assemble the Cake
Once the cake is cool, spread the pineapple whipped topping evenly over the top. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld and the topping set.
6. Garnish & Serve
Top with maraschino cherries, fresh pineapple chunks, or a sprinkle of toasted coconut. Slice and serve chilled.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Make Ahead: Can be made 1–2 days in advance
- Fridge: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
- Freezer: Cake (without topping) can be frozen for up to 2 months
Variations
- Pineapple Coconut Heaven Cake: Add ½ cup coconut flakes to the batter and use coconut pudding mix
- Strawberry Pineapple Cake: Mix in fresh chopped strawberries with the topping
- Pineapple Cream Cheese Version: Blend 8 oz cream cheese with the whipped topping for a richer texture
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
You can, but be sure to finely crush it and include the juice to keep the cake moist.
Can I make this as a layered cake?
Yes! Bake in two 9-inch round pans and layer with the topping in between and on top.
Is the topping stable enough to sit out?
It’s best chilled, but it can sit out at room temperature for 1–2 hours without melting.
Final Thoughts
This Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is like a tropical breeze in dessert form — light, creamy, and bursting with fresh pineapple flavor. It’s the perfect summer treat for birthdays, potlucks, cookouts, or anytime you need a slice of sunshine.
One bite and you’ll see why it’s called Heaven Cake.
