Description
This Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a tropical delight that combines a moist yellow cake with a luscious pineapple glaze and creamy vanilla pudding topping. Enhanced by a touch of whipped topping and optional crunchy nuts, this dessert is perfect chilled and sure to impress with its refreshing and indulgent flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Base
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box, typically eggs, oil, and water)
Pineapple Topping
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Pudding Topping
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- Amount of cold milk as per pudding mix box instructions (approximately 2 cups)
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
Optional Garnish
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Prepare and Bake Cake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the yellow cake batter according to the package directions and pour into a 9×13-inch pan. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly before proceeding.
- Make Pineapple Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the undrained crushed pineapple and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture bubbles and the sugar dissolves.
- Soak Cake with Pineapple Mixture: Using a fork or a skewer, poke holes evenly all over the surface of the warm cake. Immediately pour the warm pineapple mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to absorb into the holes. Let the cake cool completely to room temperature.
- Prepare Pudding Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with the specified amount of cold milk (approximately 2 cups) according to package instructions. Let it set for 5 minutes until it thickens. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble Topping: Spread the pudding and whipped topping mixture evenly over the cooled pineapple-soaked cake. Optionally, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added texture and flavor.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours to set and chill before serving. Enjoy this refreshing tropical treat cold.
Notes
- Make sure the cake is warm, not hot, when poking holes and pouring pineapple to allow better absorption without breaking the cake apart.
- If preferred, substitute the whipped topping with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
- For a nut-free version, omit the nuts or replace them with toasted coconut flakes.
- Allow the cake to chill longer than 2 hours for even better flavor melding.
- This cake is best served cold and enjoyed within 3 days for optimal freshness.
