If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both light and indulgent, this Heavenly Pineapple Cake is exactly what you need. With layers of fluffy vanilla cake, sweet pineapple filling, and creamy frosting, this cake combines tropical flavors and a rich, decadent texture that’s sure to impress at any gathering. This cake is a classic that everyone will love, whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, a birthday party, or just treating yourself to something special. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: the cake itself is made with a boxed mix, and the pineapple filling adds just the right amount of sweetness and tropical flair. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, it’s the perfect balance of light and indulgent. What makes this Heavenly Pineapple Cake even better is how easy it is to make. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can create a show-stopping dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Let’s dive into the ingredients and the first steps to get this cake baking.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Cake:

• 1 box vanilla cake mix (or homemade vanilla cake batter)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Pineapple Filling:

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Cake Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent the cakes from sticking once baked.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

Follow the instructions on the vanilla cake mix box (or use your homemade vanilla cake batter), combining the eggs, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

 

Baking and Assembling Your Heavenly Pineapple Cake

With your cake batter prepared and the pans ready to go, it’s time to bake the cakes, prepare the pineapple filling, and begin assembling this delicious dessert. The combination of the light cake, sweet pineapple filling, and creamy frosting makes each bite heavenly, and the assembly is easier than you might think. This is the fun part—watching the cake layers rise in the oven and then filling them with that sweet, tropical pineapple filling before slathering on the creamy frosting. It’s a dessert that’s sure to impress.

Step 3: Bake the Cakes

Pour the prepared cake batter evenly into the two greased and floured cake pans. Place them in the preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. The cakes should rise nicely and have a light golden color on top. Once done, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely

Step 4: Prepare the Pineapple Filling

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the pineapple filling. In a small saucepan, combine the drained crushed pineapple, shredded coconut (if using), granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it begins to thicken. This should only take a few minutes. Once it has thickened, remove from heat and set it aside to cool.

 

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer of cake onto your serving platter. Spread the pineapple filling evenly over the top of the first layer. Be generous with the filling—this is where the tropical flavor really comes through. Then, place the second cake layer on top of the filling. Press it down gently to secure the layers together.

 

Step 6: Frost the Cake

Now that your pineapple filling is in place and your cake layers are secured, it’s time to make the frosting! For the frosting, beat together the cream cheese and butter in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until the frosting is light, fluffy, and fully combined. Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top and sides of the cake. Make sure to cover the entire cake with an even layer of frosting. You can use an offset spatula or a butter knife to smooth the frosting to your desired finish.

 

Step 7: Refrigerate the Cake

Once the cake is frosted, refrigerate it for at least an hour. Chilling the cake helps the frosting set and allows the flavors to meld together. It also makes slicing easier when you’re ready to serve.

 

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

After the cake has chilled and set, it’s time to slice and serve! The cake can be served chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference. For an extra touch, you can garnish with a few extra coconut flakes or a sprig of fresh mint if desired.

Serving Tips and Variations:

Whether you’re making it for a celebration, potluck, or just because you’re craving something tropical and sweet, this Heavenly Pineapple Cake is one of those desserts that impresses without the fuss. Moist, rich, and full of fruity flavor, it’s easy to serve and even easier to customize. Here are some simple tips and creative variations to help you enjoy it to the fullest.

• Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature: This cake is delicious both ways. Chill it if you want a firmer texture and refreshing finish, or serve it at room temperature for a softer, melt-in-your-mouth bite.

• Top with Whipped Cream or Cream Cheese Frosting: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a thick layer of cream cheese frosting makes the perfect finishing touch.

• Add a Sprinkle of Toasted Coconut: For a little crunch and a tropical twist, top with toasted shredded coconut just before serving.

• Pair with Fresh Pineapple: Serve slices of the cake alongside a few chunks of fresh pineapple for extra juiciness and presentation.

• Make It Mini: Bake the batter in muffin tins for individual servings. Great for parties and easy to pack for lunches or picnics.

Variations:

• Add Crushed Nuts: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor. They pair beautifully with the sweetness of the pineapple.

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced version of the classic.

• Pineapple Upside-Down Style: Pour the batter over pineapple rings arranged at the bottom of the pan with a little brown sugar and butter for a fun twist.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. This cake adapts well and still turns out moist and flavorful.

• Add Coconut Milk: Replace some or all of the liquid in the batter with coconut milk to intensify the tropical flavor.

• Lemon or Lime Zest: Brighten the flavor with a bit of zest in the batter or frosting for a citrusy lift.

 

Heavenly Pineapple Cake: FAQ and Final Thoughts

Your Heavenly Pineapple Cake is now assembled, and all that’s left is to add the luscious cream cheese frosting, let it set, and dive into this tropical delight. The cake layers are soft, the pineapple filling is perfectly sweet, and the frosting is rich and creamy—what could be better? Before you take that first bite, let’s go over a few frequently asked questions about this recipe and wrap up with a few final thoughts on why this cake should make its way into your baking rotation.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake can be made in advance. Once assembled and frosted, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually improve after a day or two. Just let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Canned pineapple works just as well, but be sure to drain it thoroughly. If you use fresh pineapple, you may find the filling is slightly juicier. For a more intense flavor, feel free to add a splash of pineapple juice to the filling while cooking.

What can I do if I don’t like coconut?

If coconut isn’t your thing, simply omit it from the pineapple filling. The cake will still be delicious without it, but you’ll miss out on the added texture and flavor the coconut provides.

Can I make this cake in a different size pan?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for different pan sizes. If you want to make a 9×13-inch cake, double the amount of frosting and filling. If you want to make a layered cake in a larger size (like a 10-inch round), you’ll need to adjust the baking time and quantities accordingly.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes! You can freeze the cake before frosting. Wrap the cooled, unfrosted cakes in plastic wrap and then foil. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw, then frost as usual.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Heavenly Pineapple Cake

This Heavenly Pineapple Cake is everything you want in a cake—light, flavorful, and perfectly sweet with just the right amount of tropical flair. It’s the ideal treat for summer gatherings, birthdays, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with something a little extra special. What really makes this cake stand out is the combination of textures and flavors. The moist vanilla cake, sweet pineapple filling, and tangy cream cheese frosting all come together in a way that’s both indulgent and refreshing. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. So, whether you’re baking for a special event or just treating yourself, this cake is a winner every time. Give it a try, and enjoy a slice (or two) of heaven! Print