Pineapple Heaven Cake Recipe – Easy 5-Ingredient Dessert with Crushed Pineapple & Whipped Topping
This Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake is a tropical dream made with just 5 simple ingredients! Bursting with sweet pineapple flavor and a soft, airy texture, it’s the perfect dessert for potlucks, summer gatherings, or last-minute baking. Made with crushed pineapple, cake mix, and whipped topping, this easy recipe comes together in minutes and tastes like sunshine in every bite. No fuss, no fancy steps—just pure pineapple bliss.
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish or bundt pan
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or spoon
- Oven (for baked version)
- Refrigerator (for no-bake version)
- Knife for slicing
- Optional: electric mixer (for whipped topping)
Ingredients
Cake Base
- 1 box angel food cake mix (or yellow cake mix for a denser version)
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice (not syrup)
Topping
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping or 2 cups whipped cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Optional Add-ins & Garnishes
- ½ cup shredded coconut
- ¼ cup chopped macadamia nuts
- 1 tsp lemon zest or 1 tbsp lime juice
- Maraschino cherries or pineapple slices for garnish
Instructions
For Baked Version
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line with parchment.
- In a large bowl, mix dry cake mix with crushed pineapple (juice included) until smooth.
- Pour into prepared dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool completely.
- Spread whipped topping over the cooled cake. Add vanilla extract to whipped cream if desired.
- Garnish with coconut, nuts, or fruit. Chill before serving.
For No-Bake Version
- Layer crushed pineapple, whipped topping, and optional cake cubes or graham crackers in a trifle dish or pan.
- Chill for 2–3 hours until set. Garnish and serve.
Notes
- Use pineapple in juice, not syrup, to avoid excess sweetness and soggy texture.
- Don’t overmix—especially with angel food cake mix, which relies on air for lift.
- Cool completely before adding whipped topping to prevent melting.
- For a healthier version, use sugar-free cake mix, light whipped topping, or Greek yogurt.
- Make ahead: Bake and store base up to 1 day in advance. Add topping just before serving.