If you’re craving a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, then this easy pineapple cake recipe is the perfect choice for you. With a moist and rich texture, complemented by a tropical burst of pineapple flavor, this cake will quickly become a family favorite. It’s incredibly simple to prepare using just a few basic ingredients, yet the results are undeniably impressive. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just because, this cake is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this easy pineapple cake recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 box Yellow Cake Mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 can (5 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)
These ingredients are likely ones you already have in your pantry, and the best part is that you don’t need any fancy tools to create this cake — just a few simple utensils and a baking dish!

How to Make Easy Pineapple Cake
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to get baking! Follow these simple steps to make your easy pineapple cake:
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the cake from sticking.
In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and crushed pineapple with juice. The juice from the pineapple is essential, as it adds moisture and depth of flavor to the cake. Mix these ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined. You should have a smooth batter, with the pineapple pieces evenly distributed throughout.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Once your batter is mixed, pour it into the greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly across the dish to ensure an even bake. Place the dish into your preheated oven and bake the cake for about 30–35 minutes. You can check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick into the center — if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
Step 3: Make the Sweet Topping
While the cake is baking, it’s time to prepare the topping. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Cook this mixture over medium heat, bringing it to a boil. Allow it to simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture has thickened slightly.
Step 4: Pour the Topping Over the Cake
As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, use a fork to poke holes all over the surface of the cake. This step is crucial, as it allows the sweet topping to soak into the cake, making it extra moist and flavorful.
Carefully pour the warm topping over the freshly baked cake, ensuring it spreads evenly into the holes. The warm topping will melt into the cake, infusing every bite with sweetness and richness.
Step 5: Add the Coconut (Optional)
For an added tropical touch, sprinkle sweetened shredded coconut over the top of the cake. This step is optional, but the coconut adds a nice texture and flavor contrast to the soft, moist cake.
Step 6: Let the Cake Cool
Once you’ve added the topping and coconut (if using), let the cake cool for about 30 minutes to an hour. The cooling time is important, as it allows the cake to set and makes it easier to slice. If you’re short on time, you can also place it in the refrigerator to speed up the process.
Once the cake has cooled, it’s ready to serve!
Why This Easy Pineapple Cake Is a Crowd-Pleaser
There are many reasons why this easy pineapple cake recipe stands out. First and foremost, it’s incredibly simple to make. With just a few ingredients and basic baking techniques, you can create a dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Additionally, the cake is moist and flavorful, thanks to the natural sweetness and moisture of the pineapple.
Another reason this cake is so beloved is its versatility. You can make it for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a potluck. The tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut make it feel special, and it’s sure to be a hit wherever you take it.
Plus, this cake is easy to customize. If you’re not a fan of coconut, you can leave it out, or if you’d like a more intense pineapple flavor, you can add more pineapple juice or chunks to the batter. The possibilities are endless!
Storage Tips for Easy Pineapple Cake
Once you’ve made your easy pineapple cake, you may wonder how to store it properly. Here are some tips to ensure your cake stays fresh:
- Refrigerate: Since this cake has a moist, gooey topping, it’s best to store it in the refrigerator. This will help preserve its freshness and prevent any spoilage.
- Cover Well: Make sure the cake is covered well to prevent it from drying out. You can cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
- Enjoy Within 3–4 Days: For the best flavor and texture, enjoy your cake within 3 to 4 days. While it may last a bit longer, it’s best enjoyed when fresh!
FAQs about Easy Pineapple Cake
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, this cake can be made ahead of time. After cooling, store it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The flavors will actually improve as it sits!
Q: Can I use a different cake mix for this recipe?
A: While yellow cake mix is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other flavors like white or vanilla cake mix if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly.
Q: Can I add other fruits to the cake?
A: Absolutely! You can mix in chopped fruit such as bananas, strawberries, or even mangoes for a unique twist on this cake.
Q: What can I substitute for the evaporated milk?
A: If you don’t have evaporated milk on hand, you can substitute it with regular milk or heavy cream, but it will slightly change the texture and richness of the topping.
Q: How do I know when the cake is done baking?
A: A toothpick inserted into the center of the cake should come out clean when it’s done. If it comes out with wet batter, bake for a few more minutes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this easy pineapple cake is a perfect dessert for any occasion. With its delightful tropical flavors, moist texture, and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a sweet treat after dinner, this cake is a surefire way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Now, you’re all set to make this delicious and easy pineapple cake that will impress everyone at your next gathering! Happy baking!
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Easy Pineapple Cake Recipe: A Sweet and Moist Tropical Delight
Ingredients
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1 box Yellow Cake Mix
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3 large Eggs
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1/2 cup Vegetable Oil
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1 can (20 oz) Crushed Pineapple with juice
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1 cup Sugar
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1/2 cup Butter
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1 can (5 oz) Evaporated Milk
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1 cup Sweetened Shredded Coconut (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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In a large bowl, mix cake mix, eggs, oil, and crushed pineapple with juice until combined.
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Pour batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30–35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
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While the cake is baking, combine sugar, butter, and evaporated milk in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and cook for 2–3 minutes.
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Once cake is out of the oven, poke holes all over with a fork.
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Pour warm topping over the hot cake and spread evenly.
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Sprinkle coconut on top if using.
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Let cool before serving.