Hawaiian Cake
Hawaiian Cake is a moist, tropical-inspired dessert featuring layers of yellow cake infused with mandarin oranges and pineapple, topped with a creamy Cool Whip and pudding mixture. Its vibrant flavors and light texture make it perfect for parties, potlucks, or any celebration craving a sweet, fruity treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cake mix, mandarin oranges, one package of vanilla pudding mix, one cup of crushed pineapple, and eggs in a large mixing bowl.
- Beat the mixture for 4 minutes, then pour into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes or until the cake tests done.
- Allow the cake to cool completely.
- In a bowl, mix the remaining one cup of crushed pineapple, the second package of pudding mix, and Cool Whip until well combined.
- Spread the Cool Whip mixture over the cooled cake.
- Chill in the refrigerator until serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using egg whites instead of whole eggs. You can substitute the Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste. If you prefer a more tropical flavor, add shredded coconut to the frosting mixture. This cake is also great with a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
This Hawaiian Cake is perfect for summer gatherings and pairs beautifully with fresh fruit salads or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Serve it alongside other tropical desserts like a refreshing Dream Fruit Dip or even a slice of Cherry Cream Cheese Pie for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It's best served chilled, so you can leave it in the fridge until you're ready to enjoy another slice. Avoid freezing, as the texture may not hold up well after thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hawaiian Cake contains roughly 222 calories, with 3g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value).
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 use fresh fruit instead of canned?
While canned fruit is recommended for moisture and sweetness, you can use fresh mandarin oranges and pineapple. Just ensure they're ripe and juicy to replicate the cake's intended flavor. You may need to adjust the sugar in the cake mix if using unsweetened fresh fruit.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Make sure other ingredients, like the pudding mix, are also labeled gluten-free. This will ensure the cake maintains its delicious texture while catering to dietary needs.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this Hawaiian Cake a day in advance. Just assemble and frost it, then store it in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier when served fresh the next day.
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).