This delightful Hawaiian Dream Cake is a tropical dessert that combines the refreshing flavors of pineapple, coconut, and whipped cream. It’s a light, fluffy, and fruity cake that will transport your taste buds straight to the islands. Perfect for parties or a refreshing treat after a summer meal!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple with juice
For the Pineapple Layer:
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 ½ cups cold milk
For the Topping:
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip)
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- Maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat the oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box.
- In a large bowl, prepare the yellow cake mix as directed on the box, but replace the water with the crushed pineapple and its juice.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and bake according to the package instructions, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
- Make the Pineapple Layer:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple (with juice) and granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, and the mixture becomes slightly thickened (about 5-7 minutes). Let it cool.
- In another bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, then fold in the cooled pineapple mixture.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cake has cooled, spread the pineapple-pudding mixture evenly over the top of the cake.
- Add the Topping:
- Spread the whipped topping (Cool Whip) evenly over the pineapple layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded coconut generously over the top.
- If desired, garnish with maraschino cherries for a pop of color.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2-3 hours, or until completely chilled. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy your tropical Hawaiian Dream Cake!
Let me know if you need any tweaks!