Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake stays incredibly moist thanks to the combination of instant pudding and pineapple juice. The tropical notes from the pineapple juice give it a fresh, sweet flavor that’s both light and satisfying. Using a cake mix and pudding mix makes preparation quick without compromising taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- ¾ cup pineapple juice (from a can of pineapple or fresh)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and instant vanilla pudding mix.
- Add pineapple juice, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting or serving.
Servings and Timing
Serves: 12
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 35-40 minutes
Variations
- Frost with cream cheese frosting or whipped topping for extra creaminess.
- Add crushed pineapple chunks for additional texture and flavor.
- Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for a tropical twist.
- Mix in chopped macadamia nuts or pecans for crunch.
- Use pineapple juice concentrate for a stronger pineapple flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Avoid reheating; serve at room temperature or chilled.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple juice?
Yes, fresh juice works great and enhances the flavor.
Can I substitute yellow cake mix?
Yes, white or vanilla cake mix can be used as alternatives.
Do I need to add water?
No, the pineapple juice replaces water in this recipe.
Can I make cupcakes?
Yes, bake in cupcake liners for 18-22 minutes.
Is this cake very sweet?
Moderately sweet with a fresh fruity flavor.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
What frosting pairs best?
Cream cheese or vanilla buttercream complements the cake nicely.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free cake mix and pudding mix.
How do I keep the cake moist?
Don’t overbake and use the pudding mix and pineapple juice as directed.
Can I add other fruit flavors?
Yes, mix in other juices or fruits like orange or mango for variety.
Conclusion
Pineapple Juice Cake is a wonderfully moist and flavorful dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Its tropical pineapple notes and tender crumb make it a delightful treat that will quickly become a favorite.
PrintPineapple Juice Cake
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert, Cake, Tropical
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Tropical-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
¾ cup pineapple juice (canned or fresh)
½ cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
-
In a large bowl, combine yellow cake mix and instant vanilla pudding mix.
-
Add pineapple juice, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.
-
Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
-
Bake 35-40 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
-
Cool completely before frosting or serving.
Notes
Frost with cream cheese frosting or whipped topping for creaminess.
Add crushed pineapple chunks for texture and flavor.
Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for a tropical flair.
Mix in chopped macadamia nuts or pecans for crunch.
Use pineapple juice concentrate for a stronger pineapple taste.