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Pineapple Heaven Cake

Soft, moist yellow cake layered with juicy pineapple and topped with creamy frosting that melts in your mouth—this easy tropical dessert brings nostalgic flavors perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Hand mixer or whisk
  • Saucepan
  • Spatula or Butter Knife
  • Refrigerator

Ingredients
  

Cake Batter

  • 1 box yellow cake mix
  • 1 can crushed pineapple (with juice)
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Pineapple Layer

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter melted
  • 1/2 can crushed pineapple

Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 cup whipped topping

Optional Toppings

  • to taste shredded coconut optional
  • to taste chopped pecans optional

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  • Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine yellow cake mix, crushed pineapple with juice, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth.
  • Step 3: Pour batter evenly into prepared baking dish. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs. Let cake cool completely in the pan.
  • Step 4: While cake cools, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in granulated sugar until dissolved. Add half of the crushed pineapple and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
  • Step 5: In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Gently fold in whipped topping until light and fluffy.
  • Step 6: Spread cooled pineapple mixture evenly over the cooled cake. Then smooth cream cheese frosting on top with a spatula or butter knife.
  • Step 7: Sprinkle optional shredded coconut and chopped pecans over the frosting for added texture and tropical flair.
  • Step 8: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before slicing to let flavors meld and frosting set.

Notes

Make sure to let the cake cool completely before adding pineapple layer and frosting to prevent melting. Substitute whipped topping with homemade whipped cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter frosting.
Keyword Cream Cheese Frosting, Pineapple Cake, Tropical