Pineapple Juice Cake – SO GOOD and So Easy
This **Pineapple Juice Cake** is a retro favorite packed with fresh pineapple flavor, ultra-moist crumb, and effortless prep. A boxed cake mix elevated with instant pudding and pineapple juice becomes a tropical treat that’s perfect for any occasion—simple, sweet, and simply irresistible. 🍍🎂
Why This Cake Stands Out
- The pineapple juice substitutes for liquid and infuses the whole cake with bright, fruity flavor. This creates a super moist crumb and light texture. ([turn0news11])
- Combining yellow cake mix with instant vanilla pudding gives structure, richness, and a tender bite—no complex baking necessary. ([turn0search2])
- A nostalgic, no-fuss dessert that’s great for bake sales, brunches, or just because.
Baking Insights You’ll Appreciate
Miz Helen’s Country Cottage praises this as “very moist and delicious,” noting how her mother’s bridge club adored it—a time-tested comfort cake. ([turn0search7])
Southern Living highlights that canned pineapple juice is a Southern baker’s secret for adding moisture and lightness to boxed cakes, making it a popular trick in classics like poke cakes and Million Dollar Cake. ([turn0news11])
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz)
- ¾ cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs (if not specified, use per cake mix instructions)
Instructions
- Preheat oven as directed on cake mix box and grease your baking pan (bundt or 9×13 depending on preference).
- In a bowl, combine the cake mix, pudding mix, pineapple juice, oil, and eggs.
- Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and well mixed. ([turn0search2])
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake according to box directions, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Let the cake cool before serving—and optionally top with whipped cream or pineapple glaze for extra flair.
Health & Baking Tips
- Pineapple juice adds flavor without extra sweat—just natural acidity and moisture. ([turn0news11])
- Instant pudding makes the cake hyper-moist and keeps it fresh longer—no overbake worries.
- For gluten-friendly options, this method works well with GF yellow cake mixes and GF vanilla pudding substitutes.
Nutrition Snapshot (Approx.)
Exact nutritional values depend on ingredients used, but expect a rich, cake-like profile. If you’d like, I can estimate based on typical boxed cake mix and pudding plus oil.
10 FAQs People Ask
- Can I bake in a Bundt pan? Absolutely—and it makes the cake especially elegant!
- Can I omit pudding mix? You can, but the cake will be less moist and tender. Pudding adds structure and luxury.
- Can I add pineapple chunks? Yes, just fold in drained pineapple pieces for bursts of texture.
- Can this be made dairy-free? Use dairy-free pudding mix and plant-based milk alternatives—keeping it moist.
- How to serve? Top with coconut flakes, whipped cream, or a pineapple glaze for added charm.
- Storage tips? Store covered at room temperature for 2–3 days or refrigerate to keep it fresher longer.
- Can this be turned into cupcakes? Yes—divide batter into lined muffin tin and reduce baking time slightly.
- Is poke version possible? Yes—cool the cake, poke holes, pour pineapple syrup or extra juice, then top with whipped topping.
- Use fresh pineapple juice? Yes—fresh juice works beautifully for bright, natural flavor.
- Perfect for summer? Absolutely—this fruity and refreshing cake is ideal for poolside or potluck desserts.
Creative Variations
- Add shredded coconut to batter or sprinkle on top—embrace tropical vibes. ([turn0news9])
- Use pineapple juice glaze after baking for extra shimmer and flavor.
- Mix in chopped macadamia nuts for a Hawaiian twist.
- Combine with mandarin oranges or pineapple pudding for a poke-cake-style upgrade. ([turn0news10])
Related Pineapple Dessert Inspiration
Final Thought
This **Pineapple Juice Cake** brings together simplicity and tropical flair—all from pantry ingredients. Moist, flavorful, and timelessly satisfying, it’s a humble cake with a big personality. Bake it, slice it, and let every bite shine! ⭐🍍