Pineapple Juice Cake – Moist, Sweet, and Bursting with Tropical Flavor

Introduction

Tropical, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth moist, the Pineapple Juice Cake is the ultimate Southern-style dessert that feels like a slice of summer. Simple yet stunning, this cake is soaked in a luscious pineapple glaze right after baking, resulting in a tender crumb that’s bursting with sweet tropical flavor.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, a church potluck, or just craving something fruity and refreshing, this easy pineapple cake recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Made with pantry staples and pineapple juice, it’s a no-fuss, high-reward kind of dessert you’ll come back to again and again.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
• 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup pineapple juice (not from concentrate)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Pineapple Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• ¾ cup pineapple juice
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan thoroughly or spray with baking spray containing flour.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and vanilla pudding mix. Add the eggs, pineapple juice, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Prepare the Pineapple Glaze

While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze: whisk together the powdered sugar, pineapple juice, and melted butter in a medium bowl until smooth.

Step 5: Glaze the Cake

As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, use a skewer or toothpick to poke holes all over the cake while still in the pan. Slowly pour half of the glaze over the hot cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.

Step 6: Cool and Invert

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then invert it onto a wire rack or serving plate. Pour the remaining glaze evenly over the cake while still warm.

Variation

• Coconut Pineapple Cake: Add ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut to the batter for extra tropical flavor.
• Pineapple Rum Cake: Replace 2 tablespoons of pineapple juice with spiced rum for a fun, boozy twist.
• Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Vibe: Decorate the serving plate with pineapple rings and maraschino cherries for a festive look.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free yellow cake mix and gluten-free instant pudding mix.

COOKING Note:

Be sure to pour the glaze over the cake while it’s still hot—this allows the cake to absorb maximum flavor and moisture, resulting in an ultra-tender crumb. You can poke deep holes into the cake to help the glaze soak throughout.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream
• Top with extra whipped cream and a cherry for a dessert that looks straight from the islands
• Pair with pineapple lemonade or sweet tea for a refreshing combo
• Ideal for summer parties, Easter brunches, or anytime you need a sunny, cheerful dessert

Tips:

• Make sure the cake is still hot when you add the first half of the glaze—timing is key for soaking.
• For a thicker glaze layer, double the glaze recipe!
• Allow the cake to cool fully before slicing for cleaner pieces.
• This cake tastes even better the next day after the flavors settle and deepen.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

50 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour 5 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, approximately 12 slices):

• Calories: 390
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 320mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple juice?
A: Absolutely! Freshly squeezed pineapple juice gives the cake an even brighter, fresher flavor. Just be sure it’s strained well.

Q: Can I make this cake in a regular 9×13 pan instead of a bundt?
A: Yes! Baking time may be slightly less—start checking around 35–40 minutes.

Q: How should I store Pineapple Juice Cake?
A: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. Bring to room temp before serving for best flavor.

Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes, this cake freezes beautifully! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Conclusion

Pineapple Juice Cake is a simple, foolproof dessert that brings all the sunshine, sweetness, and tropical flair you could want. With its rich, moist crumb and buttery pineapple glaze, it’s a cake that’s easy to whip up yet impressive enough to earn a permanent place on your dessert table. One slice and you’ll be transported straight to a breezy tropical island—no plane ticket required!

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