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
Scale
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
