This cake is loaded with crushed pineapple, topped with a luscious coconut cream topping, and finished with fluffy whipped topping and shredded coconut. It’s sweet, refreshing, and perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you need a little tropical escape!
🍍 Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow or white cake mix
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
For the Filling:
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, with juice
- ½ cup granulated sugar
For the Topping:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
👨🍳 Instructions:
- Bake the Cake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, oil, water, and 1 cup crushed pineapple with juice.
- Beat until well combined (about 2 minutes).
- Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Add Pineapple Filling:
- While the cake bakes, heat the 20 oz crushed pineapple and ½ cup sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until bubbly.
- Let simmer for 5–7 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
- Poke & Soak:
- When the cake comes out of the oven, poke holes all over the top using a fork or skewer.
- Spoon the warm pineapple-sugar mixture evenly over the cake.
- Let it cool completely in the pan.
- Make the Creamy Topping:
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add pudding mix and cold milk; beat until thickened.
- Fold in whipped topping until fluffy and smooth.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled cake.
- Sprinkle generously with shredded coconut on top.
- Chill & Serve:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Cut into squares and enjoy chilled!
🍽️ Serving:
- Makes 12–16 servings
- Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, BBQs, or Easter brunch!
🔄 Variations:
- Add chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top for crunch.
- Use coconut cream pudding instead of vanilla for extra coconut flavor.
- Add a splash of rum extract or coconut milk to the batter for a Caribbean twist.