Hawaiian Cake Ii
A tropical-inspired dessert featuring layers of moist yellow cake, pineapple, creamy pudding, whipped topping, cherries, nuts, and coconut for a delightful treat suited for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the yellow cake according to the package directions.
- Bake the cake in a 15 x 11-inch cookie sheet with edges at 350°F for 15 minutes.
- Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Combine the instant vanilla pudding with cold milk and the cream cheese until smooth.
- Fold in the frozen whipped topping into the pudding mixture.
- Spread the pudding and topping mixture evenly over the cooled cake.
- Drain the crushed pineapple very well.
- Layer the pineapple over the pudding layer.
- Sprinkle with coconut and chopped nuts.
- Garnish with halved cherries before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a homemade yellow cake instead of a mix. You can also substitute the crushed pineapple with fresh pineapple or even use a mix of tropical fruits for added texture. If you're short on time, skip the cooling step and make individual servings in dessert cups, layering the ingredients. This Hawaiian Cake pairs beautifully with Grandma Claudy'S Cherry Sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Hawaiian Cake is best served chilled, making it a perfect dessert for summer gatherings. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serve it alongside fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast. For an elegant touch, consider garnishing with mint leaves. It also makes a delightful addition to potlucks and family picnics, offering a taste of tropical bliss.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake may become a bit soggy over time due to the pineapple, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you want to reheat it, consider microwaving individual portions for a few seconds, but be mindful not to overheat the whipped topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hawaiian Cake Ii contains roughly 365 calories, with 5g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 23g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Hawaiian Cake in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cake a day ahead. Just ensure it is completely cooled before adding the pudding and fruit layers. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to add the toppings on the day of serving to prevent sogginess.
What can I use instead of Cool Whip?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can whip heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla extract as a substitute for Cool Whip. This will give you a fresh and light topping that complements the cake beautifully.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, this Hawaiian Cake is suitable for vegetarian diets as it does not contain any meat or meat by-products. Ensure that all packaged ingredients, like the cake mix and pudding, are labeled vegetarian to meet specific dietary requirements.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).