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Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake

Published: Apr 26, 2025 by Sue · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

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This Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a sweet, creamy, and tropical dessert that’s incredibly easy to make. It combines crushed pineapple and fluffy whipped topping with moist yellow cake and a creamy, tangy layer of pudding and cream cheese. It’s my go-to dessert when I want something quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing.

Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this cake because it delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It starts with a simple boxed cake mix and gets transformed into a creamy, dreamy dessert. The crushed pineapple adds a refreshing sweetness and moisture that makes every bite a treat. It's a no-fuss, make-ahead dessert that’s perfect for potlucks, parties, or just indulging at home.

ingredients

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

  • Yellow cake mix (plus eggs, water, and oil as directed on the package)
  • Crushed pineapple, undrained
  • Instant vanilla pudding mix
  • Cream cheese, softened
  • Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

directions

  1. I start by baking the yellow cake as directed on the box in a 9x13-inch pan, then I let it cool completely.
  2. While the cake cools, I mix the softened cream cheese and dry pudding mix until smooth.
  3. I stir in the undrained crushed pineapple into the pudding mixture until well combined.
  4. Once the cake is cooled, I spread the pineapple mixture over the top evenly.
  5. Then I top it all with the whipped topping and chill it in the fridge for a couple of hours before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 12 people. It takes around 10 minutes to prep, 30 minutes to bake the cake, and at least 2 hours to chill in the fridge before serving.

Variations

  • I sometimes use vanilla or white cake mix instead of yellow for a lighter flavor.
  • Adding shredded coconut or chopped pecans on top adds a nice crunch.
  • For a tangier twist, I’ve used lemon pudding mix instead of vanilla.

storage/reheating

I keep this cake stored in the fridge, covered, for up to 5 days. Since it's a chilled dessert, there’s no reheating necessary. I just serve it straight from the fridge.

FAQs

How far in advance can I make Pineapple Heaven Cake?

I like making it a day ahead so the flavors meld together even better. It holds up well in the fridge for several days.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

I prefer canned crushed pineapple for its consistency and moisture. Fresh pineapple can work if it's finely chopped and juicy, but I make sure to include the juice.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the whipped topping?

Yes, I’ve used dairy-free whipped toppings available in stores, and they work well in this recipe.

Can I freeze Pineapple Heaven Cake?

I don't usually freeze this cake because the texture of the whipped topping and pudding changes, but technically it can be frozen in an airtight container for up to a month.

Can I make it in a different pan size?

Yes, I’ve made it in two 9-inch round pans for a layer-style version or halved the recipe for an 8x8-inch pan.

Conclusion

This Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is everything I want in a dessert—easy, creamy, fruity, and refreshing. It’s the kind of treat that disappears fast, so I always make sure to save myself a slice before serving. Whether for a summer party or a comforting sweet after dinner, it never disappoints.

Print

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Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake

Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake

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  • Author: Sue
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Chill Time: 2 hours
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-bake (after cake is baked), chilled
  • Cuisine: American
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Description

Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is the ultimate tropical dessert featuring moist yellow cake, creamy pudding, and crushed pineapple. This easy no-fuss cake is perfect for potlucks, parties, or anytime you need a refreshing and crowd-pleasing sweet treat. Made with simple ingredients like cream cheese, whipped topping, and a boxed cake mix, it’s a chilled pineapple dessert that tastes like sunshine in every bite.


Ingredients

  • 1 box yellow cake mix (plus eggs, water, and oil as directed)
  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)

Instructions

  1. Bake the yellow cake in a 9x13-inch pan according to package directions. Let it cool completely.
  2. In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and dry vanilla pudding mix until smooth.
  3. Stir in the undrained crushed pineapple until fully combined.
  4. Spread the pineapple mixture evenly over the cooled cake.
  5. Top with whipped topping.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute white or vanilla cake mix for a lighter flavor.
  • Add shredded coconut or chopped pecans on top for added texture.
  • Lemon pudding can be used for a tangier version.
  • Store in the fridge covered for up to 5 days.
  • Best made a day in advance for enhanced flavor.

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Hey there! I'm Sue, a mom, a wife, and someone who’s always in the kitchen trying out new recipes or revisiting old ones that remind me of family gatherings and special moments.

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