Description
A tropical treat that takes dessert to the next level, this Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a delightful combination of moist pineapple-soaked cake, creamy layers, and a refreshing topping. With a hint of tropical sweetness and a rich, smooth texture, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 box yellow or white cake mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as listed on the box)
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple (undrained)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
Whipped cream (for garnish)
Maraschino cherries
Optional: sweetened shredded coconut or white chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Prepare and bake the cake mix in a 9x13-inch pan according to the package instructions. Let it cool slightly once baked.
- In a saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple (with juice) and granulated sugar. Bring it to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and pour the pineapple mixture evenly over the warm cake. Let the cake cool completely.
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until fluffy. Fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.
- Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese whipped topping evenly over the pineapple-soaked cake.
- Decorate the cake with fresh pineapple chunks, dollops of whipped cream, and maraschino cherries. For extra flair, sprinkle with shredded coconut or white chocolate shavings, if desired.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
For a tropical twist, add sweetened shredded coconut to the cake before the cream cheese topping.
For a richer topping, use mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese.
To make the cake even more colorful and flavorful, swap out some of the pineapple chunks for fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries.
Make ahead: You can prepare this cake a day in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and the layers to firm up.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking, Chilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
