Description

Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a delightful tropical dessert featuring a moist yellow cake soaked with a warm pineapple and sugar mixture, topped with a creamy vanilla pudding and whipped topping blend, and finished with optional crunchy nuts. This easy-to-make cake combines tropical flavors with creamy textures for the perfect refreshing treat.

Ingredients

Cake

1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box)

Pineapple Mixture

1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
1/2 cup granulated sugar

Topping

1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
Milk (amount specified on pudding mix box, typically 2 cups)
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

Preheat and Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the yellow cake batter according to the package directions and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan. Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly so it is warm but not hot.
Prepare Pineapple Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the undrained crushed pineapple and sugar. Cook this mixture for 3 to 5 minutes until it starts to bubble, ensuring the sugar dissolves and flavors meld.
Poke Holes and Pour Pineapple: Using a fork or skewer, poke holes all over the surface of the warm cake. This allows the pineapple mixture to soak into the cake for maximum moisture and flavor. Pour the warm pineapple mixture evenly over the cake and let it cool completely.
Make Pudding Topping: In a bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk as per the package instructions (typically about 2 cups). Let the pudding set for 5 minutes until thickened. Then gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until combined and creamy.
Apply Topping: Spread the pudding and whipped topping mixture evenly over the cooled pineapple-soaked cake layer. For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts on top if using.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and the topping to firm up. Serve chilled and enjoy your tropical pineapple heaven cake.

Notes

This cake is best served chilled after refrigeration to allow the pineapple flavor to fully soak in.
You can substitute the nuts or omit them for a nut-free version.
The instant pudding mix requires cold milk, so be sure to keep milk refrigerated before using.
For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free yellow cake mix.
If you prefer a fresher pineapple flavor, use fresh crushed pineapple instead of canned, adjusting sugar to taste.