Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake

Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is one of those irresistibly light and fruity desserts that always makes me think of sunshine and summer. It’s sweet, creamy, and bursting with pineapple flavor—yet incredibly simple to make with just a few ingredients. Whether I’m serving it for a potluck, birthday, or just because I’m craving something refreshing, this cake always hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy and quick this cake is to throw together, especially since it starts with a boxed cake mix. It’s got that fluffy, almost cloud-like texture with chunks of pineapple that add natural juiciness to every bite. I also enjoy how light it feels, which makes it perfect for warmer weather or after a heavy meal. Plus, I don’t need to worry about layering or decorating—just mix, chill, and enjoy.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Yellow or white cake mix

• Crushed pineapple (with juice)

• Cool Whip or whipped topping

• Instant vanilla pudding mix

• Cream cheese (softened)

• Powdered sugar

• Eggs

• Water or pineapple juice (for cake mix)

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly.

2. I mix the cake mix, eggs, and water (or pineapple juice) in a large bowl until smooth.

3. I fold in the crushed pineapple (with juice) and stir gently to combine.

4. I pour the batter into the baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

5. While the cake cools, I beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.

6. I add the instant pudding mix and a bit of milk, beating until thick and creamy.

7. I fold in the Cool Whip to create a fluffy topping.

8. Once the cake is fully cooled, I spread the topping evenly over the surface.

9. I chill the cake for at least 2 hours before serving so it sets up nicely.

Servings and timing

This cake yields about 12–15 servings. It takes around 10 minutes to prep, 30 minutes to bake, and 2 hours to chill. I usually make it ahead of time to let the flavors come together.

Variations

I sometimes use a white cake mix instead of yellow for a lighter color and texture. For a tropical twist, I’ve added shredded coconut or a few spoonfuls of crushed mandarin oranges to the topping. If I want extra richness, I swap Cool Whip for freshly whipped cream. A sprinkle of toasted coconut or chopped nuts on top adds a lovely crunch.

Storage/Reheating

I store this cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s best served chilled, so I don’t reheat it. If I have leftovers, I cut individual slices and keep them in airtight containers for easy snacking.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple?

Fresh pineapple tends to be less juicy and sweet, so I stick with canned crushed pineapple for the best results.

Does this cake need to be refrigerated?

Yes, I always refrigerate it because of the whipped topping and cream cheese in the frosting.

Can I freeze this cake?

I’ve frozen slices before with success. I wrap them tightly and thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

What can I use instead of Cool Whip?

I sometimes use stabilized whipped cream or make my own with heavy cream and a little powdered sugar.

Can I make this in advance?

Definitely. I actually prefer making it a day ahead—it gets even better after chilling overnight.

Conclusion

Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is exactly what it sounds like—a light, fluffy, fruit-filled dessert that feels like a little slice of paradise. I love how easy it is to make, how refreshing it tastes, and how it always disappears fast whenever I bring it out. Whether I’m hosting a gathering or just want to treat myself, this cake always brings a little extra joy to the table.

Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake

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• Author: Linda
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes including chilling
• Yield: 12–15 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a light, fluffy, and tropical dessert made with cake mix, crushed pineapple, and a creamy whipped topping—perfect for warm weather and easy entertaining.

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Ingredients

• 1 box yellow or white cake mix
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup water or pineapple juice
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 cup cold milk
• 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip or whipped topping

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, eggs, and water or pineapple juice until smooth.
3. Fold in the crushed pineapple (with juice) and stir to combine.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
6. In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
7. Add the pudding mix and milk, then beat until thick and creamy.
8. Fold in Cool Whip to create a light, fluffy topping.
9. Spread the topping evenly over the cooled cake.
10. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

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Notes

• Use white cake mix for a lighter appearance.
• Add shredded coconut or mandarin oranges for a tropical twist.
• Top with toasted coconut or chopped nuts for crunch.
• Best served chilled—do not reheat.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 55mg