Pineapple Paradise Cake Recipe
If you’re longing for a dessert that’s bursting with sunshine and tropical flair, the Pineapple Paradise Cake Recipe is your new best friend. This delightful cake perfectly balances moist, fluffy layers infused with pineapple’s sweet tang and a rich, creamy topping that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet escape, this cake brings a slice of paradise straight to your kitchen with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the exciting first step, and with this recipe, simplicity meets flavor beautifully. Each component plays a vital role, from the golden cake base to the luscious pineapple filling and fluffy cream topping, creating a cake that’s both visually appealing and utterly delicious.
- Yellow cake mix: The foundation of the cake, providing a light and tender crumb that’s easy to work with.
- Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and keeps the cake deliciously soft.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness for a perfect cake texture.
- Water: Helps to blend the dry mix smoothly and keep the cake moist.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the cake’s flavor with a warm, inviting aroma.
- Crushed pineapple (drained): Infuses the cake layers with tropical sweetness without overpowering moisture.
- Crushed pineapple (undrained): Used in the topping and punch for an extra burst of juiciness.
- Granulated sugar: Balances the tartness of the pineapple by adding sweetness.
- Butter: Ensures the topping is rich and smooth with a slight nuttiness.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Bring a crunchy texture and nutty depth if you like a bit of contrast.
- Heavy cream: Whipped to perfection for a light, airy topping.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream delicately without graininess.
How to Make Pineapple Paradise Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cake
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, water, and vanilla extract. Beat everything together until smooth and well mixed. Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple to add that light tropical texture. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This step creates the beautifully moist and flavorful base of your Pineapple Paradise Cake Recipe.
Step 2: Make the Pineapple Topping
While the cake cools, prepare the luscious pineapple topping that truly sets this cake apart. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the undrained crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, butter, and chopped nuts if using. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens into a rich glaze. Once ready, spread this warm topping evenly over the cooled cake, allowing the juices to soak into the soft layers below.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
Now, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This whipped cream topping is creamy and airy, offering the perfect balance to the spiced sweetness of the pineapple layer beneath.
Step 4: Assemble Your Cake
Spread the whipped cream generously over the pineapple glaze layer. This final touch not only looks stunning but adds that soft, melt-in-your-mouth finish that makes the Pineapple Paradise Cake Recipe so irresistible. Chill the cake for at least an hour to set everything beautifully.
How to Serve Pineapple Paradise Cake Recipe

Garnishes
To make your presentation shine, consider garnishing the cake with toasted coconut flakes or additional chopped nuts for a delightful crunch. A few fresh pineapple chunks or a sprig of mint can add vibrant color and an inviting fragrance that will elevate your dessert’s appeal.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit salad, especially tropical fruits like mango, kiwi, or papaya, enhancing the island-inspired vibe. For a refreshing contrast, serve it with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the cake into individual parfait glasses layered with extra whipped cream and crushed pineapple for a fun twist. Alternatively, use a ring mold to shape the cake into mini towers topped with garnishes for a fancy party treat. No matter how you serve it, the Pineapple Paradise Cake Recipe always feels like a celebration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After you’ve enjoyed your Pineapple Paradise Cake Recipe, be sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chilled cake keeps well for up to 4 days, allowing the flavors to meld together even more deliciously over time.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later indulgence, freeze the cake without the whipped cream topping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and add fresh whipped cream just before enjoying.
Reheating
This cake is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer slightly warmer bites, allow slices to sit out for 15 to 20 minutes to soften up, but avoid microwaving to preserve its delicate texture and cream layers.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cake mix instead of boxed mix?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute your favorite homemade yellow cake recipe to make Pineapple Paradise Cake Recipe from scratch. Just ensure the batter is thick enough to hold the crushed pineapple without becoming too wet.
Is it necessary to drain the pineapple for the cake batter?
Yes, draining the crushed pineapple before adding it to the batter is important to prevent the cake from becoming soggy. The undrained pineapple is reserved for the topping where extra juice adds flavor and moisture.
Can I skip the nuts in the topping?
Definitely! The nuts add a nice crunch and aroma but are completely optional. You can leave them out for a nut-free version or substitute with toasted coconut for a different texture.
How do I get the whipped cream to hold its shape?
Using chilled heavy cream and a cold bowl helps the cream whip up better. Slowly add powdered sugar and vanilla as you whip until you see stiff peaks form. Avoid overwhipping, which can turn it into butter.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can! Simply use a gluten-free yellow cake mix or homemade gluten-free recipe as the base. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making sure your Pineapple Paradise Cake Recipe is safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the Pineapple Paradise Cake Recipe that transforms any gathering into a tropical celebration. Its layers of moist cake, luscious pineapple topping, and fluffy whipped cream come together in a harmony that’s impossible to resist. I can’t wait for you to try it and make this sunshine-filled dessert your new favorite treat.
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Pineapple Paradise Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Pineapple Paradise Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert that combines a classic yellow cake base with the tropical sweetness of pineapple. This delightful cake is topped with a luscious pineapple glaze and a whipped cream frosting, making it perfect for any celebration or casual gathering. Its tender crumb, enriched with pineapple flavors and a hint of vanilla, offers a refreshing take on a traditional cake that pineapple lovers will adore.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or 2 cups homemade cake mix)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice for topping)
Topping
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Whipped Cream Frosting
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, water, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture on medium speed until smooth and well blended.
- Fold in Drained Pineapple: Gently fold in the 1 cup of drained crushed pineapple into the batter, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
- Bake: Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan and bake for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Prepare Pineapple Topping: While the cake bakes, combine the undrained crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, and butter in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in chopped nuts if using.
- Cool and Apply Topping: Once the cake is baked and slightly cooled, slowly spoon the warm pineapple topping evenly over the cake so it can soak in.
- Make the Whipped Cream Frosting: In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract at high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the whipped cream frosting evenly over the pineapple topping, ensuring full coverage for a creamy finish.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and topping to set before slicing and serving. Enjoy your Pineapple Paradise Cake chilled for best taste.
Notes
- Drain the crushed pineapple well to prevent the cake from becoming soggy.
- The reserved pineapple juice can be used to moisten the cake further if desired.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice texture but are optional.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with whipped topping, though texture may vary.
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American