Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake

This Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a potluck, celebrating a birthday, or just craving something sweet, this cake is sure to impress. Its unique combination of flavors—sweet pineapple and creamy coconut—creates a tropical taste sensation that will transport you to paradise with each bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This poke cake is simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy bakers.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of pineapple and coconut gives this cake a refreshing tropical twist.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for potlucks, birthdays, or casual family dinners; it’s sure to please everyone.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and let it chill in the fridge for a hassle-free treat.
• Customizable Toppings: You can add your favorite garnishes like maraschino cherries or fresh pineapple slices.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen essentials. Having the right tools will ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowl
• Electric hand mixer or whisk
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Wooden spoon
• Baking sheet

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl helps you combine ingredients evenly without spills.
• Electric Hand Mixer: This tool makes it easier to achieve a smooth pudding mixture quickly.
• Baking Pan: The right size ensures even cooking and perfect portioning of your poke cake.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for poking holes in the cake without damaging its structure.

Ingredients

This Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake is so delicious! All you need is a cake mix, crushed pineapple, coconut cream and vanilla pudding, whipped cream, and shredded coconut!

• 1 15.25 oz box French vanilla or yellow cake mix (prepare as directed on box with eggs, oil, and sub pineapple juice for the water)
• 1 20 oz can crushed pineapple, drained (use juice in sub of water for cake)
• 1 3.4 oz package coconut cream instant pudding mix
• 1 3.4 oz vanilla instant pudding mix
• 4 cups milk
• 1/2 cup sweetened coconut flakes, toasted in oven*
• 1 16 oz container frozen whipped topping (Cool Whip) or 3 cups fresh whipped cream
• Maraschino cherries and/or pineapple slices, for garnish if desired

How to Make Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a deep dish 9×13 pan with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Mix

In a large mixing bowl, prepare the cake mix according to the box directions using eggs and oil. Substitute 1 cup of drained pineapple juice instead of water. If you don’t have enough juice, add water until you reach 1 cup.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Bake according to package instructions or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool on a cooling rack for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Poke Holes in the Cake

Using the end of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly spaced apart throughout the top of the warm cake.

Step 6: Prepare Pudding Mixture

In another bowl, beat together milk and both pudding mixes with an electric mixer or whisk until slightly thickened but still pourable. Stir in the drained crushed pineapple until well combined.

Step 7: Pour Over Cake

Pour the pudding mixture over the warm cake, ensuring it fills all the holes. You’ll have some pudding left over depending on your dish’s size. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.

Step 8: Toast Coconut Flakes

While waiting for the cake to set, spread sweetened coconut flakes evenly on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about three minutes at a time until they are golden brown.

Step 9: Top Your Cake

Once set, spread a layer of whipped topping over the cake and sprinkle with toasted shredded coconut. If desired, garnish with maraschino cherries or fresh pineapple slices before serving.

How to Serve Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake

This Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake is a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, serving this cake can be both fun and creative.

Classic Slice

• Serve individual slices of the cake on dessert plates. This presentation highlights the layered pudding and coconut topping, making it visually appealing.

Parfait Style

• Layer pieces of poke cake in clear cups with additional whipped cream and toasted coconut. This creates an attractive dessert that guests can easily enjoy while mingling.

Picnic-Friendly Portions

• Cut the cake into smaller squares and place them in muffin liners for easy transport. These bite-sized treats are great for outdoor gatherings or potluck events.

Tropical Fruit Platter

• Pair slices of poke cake with fresh tropical fruit like mango, kiwi, or strawberries. The fruity addition enhances the Hawaiian theme and adds freshness.

Ice Cream Side

• Serve each slice alongside a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream. The creamy texture complements the cake’s flavors perfectly.

Garnished Delight

• Top each slice with a maraschino cherry or pineapple slice before serving. This extra touch makes each piece look festive and inviting.

How to Perfect Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake

To make your Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake even better, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients enhance flavor. Opt for fresh pineapple if possible, as it adds vibrant taste compared to canned options.
• Don’t Overmix: When preparing the cake mix, avoid overmixing to keep your cake light and fluffy. Mix just until everything is combined.
• Cool Before Poking: Allow the cake to cool slightly before poking holes. This ensures that the pudding mixture seeps in without making the cake too soggy.
• Chill Effectively: Letting the cake chill for at least one hour allows the pudding to set properly, enhancing its texture and flavor.
• Customize Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Add nuts, additional fruits, or even chocolate shavings for a unique twist.
• Store Properly: Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator. This keeps the cake moist and fresh for several days.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake

This poke cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its tropical flavor profile. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits tossed together; it’s light and complements the rich flavors of the poke cake.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots provides a nice contrast in texture while adding a bit of tanginess.
3. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers marinated in a sweet teriyaki sauce offer a savory balance alongside the sweetness of the dessert.
4. Vegetable Platter: An assortment of crisp vegetables served with ranch or hummus dip adds a healthy crunch that contrasts nicely with the dessert’s richness.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins bring warmth to your meal and pair nicely with tropical flavors.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks can serve as an excellent complement, providing savory bites between sweet cakes.
7. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze cap off your meal beautifully with their bright flavors.
8. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad serves as a hearty side that balances out lighter dishes while still feeling festive when served alongside poke cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final result.

• Ignoring cake mix instructions: Always follow the instructions on the cake mix box carefully, especially regarding egg and oil measurements. This ensures the best texture.
• Not draining crushed pineapple: Failing to drain the pineapple can lead to a soggy cake. Make sure to drain it well before mixing it into your batter or pudding.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before poking holes is crucial. If it’s too hot, the pudding mixture won’t soak in properly.
• Overbaking the cake: Check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time. Overbaking can dry out your cake, affecting its moistness.
• Using cold pudding mixture: Make sure your pudding mixture is at room temperature when pouring it over the cake. Cold pudding won’t soak into the holes effectively.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days.
• Keep in the original baking dish covered with plastic wrap if you prefer.

Freezing Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm uncovered for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake?

Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake is a delicious dessert made with layers of cake, pineapple, coconut pudding, and whipped topping, creating a tropical flavor experience.

How do I customize Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake?

You can customize this poke cake by adding different fruits like mangoes or berries, using different flavored instant puddings, or even adding nuts for crunch.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, using fresh pineapple is an excellent option! Just ensure it’s finely chopped and drained properly before adding it.

How do I serve Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake?

This cake can be served chilled straight from the refrigerator. It’s perfect for potlucks and gatherings!

Is this recipe suitable for special diets?

This recipe can be adapted for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free cake mix and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

This Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite fruits or toppings. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it at home, this delightful treat will surely impress everyone who tries it!