There’s something magical about Hawaiian Poke Cake. Picture a fluffy sponge cake soaked in a luscious blend of tropical flavors, topped with vibrant coconut and pineapple, each bite transporting you straight to a sunny beach. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses as you prepare for this delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue or an impromptu family gathering. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dessert recipes recipe.
This cake isn’t just a treat; it’s a celebration of flavor. I remember the first time I made it for my friends during our annual luau-themed party. The laughter, the sun setting in the background, and everyone diving into that colorful cake—priceless moments! Each slice offers an explosion of sweetness that guarantees happy faces all around. Get ready to indulge in this amazing flavor experience!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hawaiian Poke Cake is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect even for kitchen novices
- Its tropical flavor profile will whisk you away to paradise with every bite
- With its beautiful layers and colors, this cake becomes an instant showstopper at any gathering
- Versatile enough for any occasion—be it birthdays or casual get-togethers, it’s always a hit!
One unforgettable memory was when my cousin took one bite and declared it was like “a vacation in cake form.” Talk about high praise!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Yellow Cake Mix: A classic choice that provides a soft and fluffy base; look for quality brands for the best results.
Pineapple Juice: Use 100% juice for natural sweetness; it really enhances the tropical flavor.
Coconut Milk: Go for full-fat coconut milk for creaminess; it adds richness and depth to the cake.
Sweetened Shredded Coconut: This adds texture and gives your poke cake its signature tropical flair.
Pineapple Chunks: Fresh or canned works well; make sure they’re well-drained to avoid sogginess.
Whipped Topping: For that fluffy finish on top; cool whip is an easy option if you’re short on time.
For the Topping:
Maraschino Cherries: These add a pop of color and sweetness; they’re the cherry on top of your delightful creation!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Hawaiian Poke Cake
Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package instructions and pour into the dish.
Bake Until Golden: Bake for around 25-30 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before poking holes throughout the top.
Soak with Flavor: In a small bowl, mix pineapple juice with coconut milk. Pour this mixture evenly over the cooled cake so every bite gets that tropical goodness.
Add Coconut Bliss: Sprinkle sweetened shredded coconut over the top while it’s still moist from soaking. This makes every bite rich and creamy.
Top It Off: Spread whipped topping generously across the surface of your cake. Feel free to get creative with how thick you want that layer!
Garnish Like a Pro: Finally, garnish with pineapple chunks and maraschino cherries on top. Your Hawaiian Poke Cake should look as good as it tastes!
Now all that’s left is slicing into this beauty and enjoying some serious island vibes right at home!
You Must Know
- The Hawaiian Poke Cake is a delightful blend of flavors that transports you straight to the tropics
- Moist, fluffy, and topped with coconut cream, this cake is perfect for summer gatherings or whenever you need a dose of sunshine
- Enjoy its vibrant colors and delicious aroma!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by baking the cake as directed and let it cool completely before adding toppings. This ensures that your layers stay intact and absorb the delicious flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap pineapple with mango for a unique twist, or add crushed macadamia nuts for extra crunch. Personalization makes it even more fun!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy that fresh-baked taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room-temperature ingredients for better mixing and fluffiness
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep your cake tender
- Always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean
Sometimes, I whip up this Hawaiian Poke Cake just to make my friends smile. Their delighted reactions remind me why I love baking!
FAQ
What is Hawaiian Poke Cake?
Hawaiian Poke Cake is a moist cake infused with tropical flavors like pineapple and coconut.
How long can I store Hawaiian Poke Cake?
You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
Can I use other fruits in my Hawaiian Poke Cake?
Absolutely! Mango or passion fruit can be wonderful alternatives to pineapple in this recipe.
Hawaiian Poke Cake
Hawaiian Poke Cake is a tropical delight that combines a fluffy yellow cake with luscious pineapple and coconut flavors, creating an irresistible dessert perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make cake is drenched in fruity goodness, topped with creamy whipped topping, and garnished with vibrant maraschino cherries. Every slice offers a burst of sunshine, making it a delightful centerpiece for summer barbecues or family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 cup pineapple juice (100%)
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (drained)
- 1 cup whipped topping
- ¼ cup maraschino cherries (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package instructions and pour into the prepared dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown; let cool slightly before poking holes throughout the top.
- Mix pineapple juice and coconut milk in a bowl, then pour evenly over the cooled cake.
- Sprinkle sweetened shredded coconut on top while still moist.
- Spread whipped topping generously over the cake and garnish with pineapple chunks and maraschino cherries.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: For added crunch, consider mixing in crushed macadamia nuts. You can substitute pineapple with mango for a unique twist. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
