Description
This Hawaiian Wedding Cake is a tropical delight featuring a moist yellow cake infused with crushed pineapple and topped with a luscious whipped cream cheese frosting mixed with pineapple and optional toasted nuts and coconut. Perfect for celebrations or any time you crave a sweet, fruity dessert with a light, creamy topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup crushed pineapple with juice
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Frosting
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip)
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, well-drained
Optional Toppings
- ½ cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts
- Shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix the cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, 1 cup crushed pineapple with juice, vegetable oil, water, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat thoroughly until the batter is smooth and well mixed.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
- Make the frosting: While the cake cools, beat the softened cream cheese in a medium bowl until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the whipped topping and the well-drained crushed pineapple to create a fluffy frosting.
- Frost the cake: Once the cake is fully cooled, spread the pineapple cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Avoid frosting while warm to prevent melting.
- Add toppings and chill: Sprinkle the top with chopped toasted pecans or walnuts and shredded coconut if desired. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set the frosting and enhance the flavors before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before applying the frosting to prevent it from melting.
- For best flavor, prepare the cake ahead and refrigerate overnight after frosting.
- To toast nuts, lightly toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and golden.
- You can substitute the whipped topping with fresh whipped cream for a lighter alternative.
