If sunshine could be served on a dessert plate, it would taste like Pineapple Juice Cake. This bright, buttery Bundt cake bursts with the sweet tropical flavor of real pineapple juice, complemented by a luscious, buttery glaze that soaks into every crumb. Whether you’re baking for a celebration, a family dinner, or just to treat yourself on a regular Tuesday, you’ll love how simple it is to whip up this crowd-pleaser with pantry staples — and how completely irresistible the finished cake is!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Pineapple Juice Cake has a special role to play. They come together in perfect harmony, giving you a cake that’s plush, flavorful, and just the right kind of sweet. Don’t skip a thing — each component brings its own delicious magic!
- Yellow cake mix: The reliable foundation that ensures a moist and tender cake without extra fuss.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4-ounce box): Adds a rich, creamy texture and makes every bite softer and more decadent.
- Large eggs: Provide structure and richness, giving the cake its perfect crumb.
- Pineapple juice: The superstar ingredient; it infuses both the cake and the glaze with vibrant, tropical flavor.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake extra moist while lending a light, fluffy texture.
- Unsalted butter: Melts into the glaze, bringing a dreamy richness that soaks right into the cake.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze and helps it cling beautifully to every bite.
How to Make Pineapple Juice Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Pan & Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grab a 10-cup Bundt pan and give it a generous coating of butter or nonstick spray, followed by a dusting of flour. This simple step ensures your Pineapple Juice Cake will release beautifully, showing off those classic Bundt curves.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, instant vanilla pudding mix, eggs, 1 cup of pineapple juice, and vegetable oil. Using an electric mixer set to medium speed, beat the mixture for a solid 2 minutes. The batter should become thick, silky, and fully incorporated — you’ll smell that sweet pineapple already!
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the prepared batter into your Bundt pan and gently smooth the top. Slide it into the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are pulling away from the pan and a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Try not to peek too often; that patience will pay off!
Step 4: Make the Glaze
While your cake is baking, get started on the glaze that takes this Pineapple Juice Cake over the top. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the powdered sugar and the remaining half cup of pineapple juice, whisking until everything is smooth and glossy. Let it gently simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to mellow the sweetness and bump up the tropical fragrance.
Step 5: Glaze the Cake
When the cake is hot out of the oven, don’t wait! Immediately (and carefully) pour the piping hot glaze evenly over the cake while it’s still in the pan. This helps the glaze soak into the sponge, locking in moisture and amplifying that pineapple flavor. Let the glazed cake sit for about 15 to 20 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack or serving plate.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Give your cake time to cool completely before slicing — it’s worth the wait. Once cut, you’ll see and taste the difference a glaze-soaked Bundt makes: extra fluffy, fragrant, and full of pineapple tang in every bite!
How to Serve Pineapple Juice Cake
Garnishes
Dress up your Pineapple Juice Cake with a flourish! Try adding a dusting of powdered sugar, a handful of toasted coconut flakes, or fresh pineapple wedges scattered around the plate. A dollop of whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream can make every slice feel just a little bit extra — perfect for celebrations or just-because moments.
Side Dishes
This bright, tropical cake pairs beautifully with light side dishes. Fresh fruit salad, a citrusy sorbet, or even a creamy fruit dip will complement the pineapple notes without overpowering the cake. For special brunches, serve it with hot coffee or sparkling lemonade for a truly festive spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to think beyond the Bundt! Cube leftover slices for a fun cake trifle layered with whipped cream and berries, or cut the cake into small squares for a cheerful dessert platter. Miniature Pineapple Juice Cakes baked in individual Bundt pans are adorable for parties and perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, leftover Pineapple Juice Cake keeps beautifully when wrapped in plastic or sealed in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The cake actually gets even more flavorful as the glaze seeps in — so don’t be shy about savoring a slice the next day!
Freezing
If you want to save some sunshine for the future, Pineapple Juice Cake freezes very well. Wrap the whole cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then again in foil, and store in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving for the freshest taste and texture.
Reheating
You can enjoy this cake at room temperature, but if you love that fresh-from-the-oven warmth, a quick zap in the microwave (about 10-15 seconds per slice) does the trick. The glaze will soften a little, making each mouthful extra luscious.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple juice instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple juice will enhance the tropical flavor even more. Just be sure to strain out any pulp for the smoothest batter and glaze.
Is there a substitute for instant vanilla pudding mix?
While the pudding mix gives the cake its signature moistness and soft crumb, you can swap it for instant coconut pudding for a unique twist. The texture may vary slightly, but the cake will still be delicious.
What’s the best way to keep the cake from sticking to the pan?
Make sure you generously grease and flour your Bundt pan, getting into every nook and cranny. A good nonstick spray followed by a dusting of flour usually guarantees a perfect release.
Can I add mix-ins like coconut or nuts?
Yes! Shredded coconut, crushed pecans, or even a handful of chopped macadamia nuts would add wonderful texture and flavor. Just fold them in after mixing the batter.
How far in advance can I make Pineapple Juice Cake?
You can bake the cake up to two days ahead. In fact, letting it sit overnight (well wrapped) allows the glaze to soak in and deepen the flavor, making your Pineapple Juice Cake even more irresistible.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magic about a home-baked Pineapple Juice Cake — it’s simple, festive, and downright delicious. I hope you’ll treat yourself and your loved ones to this easy recipe soon, and let the tropical flavors help you celebrate the everyday!
Print
Pineapple Juice Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a tropical delight with this Pineapple Juice Cake. A moist and flavorful bundt cake infused with pineapple juice and topped with a sweet glaze, this dessert is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 (3.4-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
Glaze:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease/flour a 10-cup Bundt pan.
- Mix the batter: In a large bowl, combine cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, 1 cup pineapple juice, and oil. Beat for 2 minutes.
- Bake: Pour batter into pan and bake for 45–50 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Make the glaze: Melt butter in a saucepan, stir in sugar and 1/2 cup pineapple juice. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Glaze the cake: Pour glaze over hot cake; let it soak before turning out onto a rack to cool.
Notes
- Enhance with coconut extract or toasted coconut.
- Cake tastes better the next day.
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