introduction
This Hawaiian Poke Cake is sweet, soft, and easy to make. It uses a box cake mix and pineapple for a bright flavor. If you like quick desserts, this cake is as simple to make as a two-ingredient Japanese cheesecake.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you want a fast, crowd-pleasing dessert. It needs few fresh ingredients and little time. The tropical taste is a good change from plain cake and pairs well with simple weeknight dinners or potlucks like the treats in easy breakfast collections.
how to make Hawaiian Poke Cake
Follow the steps below to make the cake. Read the full ingredients and directions before you start.
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)
Directions :
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.
how to serve Hawaiian Poke Cake
Cut into squares and place on plates. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Add extra pineapple or a cherry on top for a pretty look. A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes it richer.
how to store Hawaiian Poke Cake
Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Do not leave it at room temperature more than two hours because of the whipped topping and fruit.
tips to make Hawaiian Poke Cake
Use full-fat coconut milk for best flavor and texture. Drain the pineapple chunks well so the cake does not get too soggy. If you want a lighter topping, try a whipped cream alternative like one suggested in the best keto cheesecake ideas. Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to let the filling set.
variation (if any)
- Add a layer of cream cheese frosting for a tangy version.
- Use crushed pineapple for a more even fruit flavor.
- Swap maraschino cherries for fresh cherries or toasted coconut for extra crunch.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes. Chop fresh pineapple and drain any extra juice before adding.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and follow the same steps.
Q: Do I have to use sweetened shredded coconut?
A: No. You can use unsweetened shredded coconut, but the cake will be less sweet.
Q: Can I freeze the cake?
A: You can freeze it, but the texture may change. Freeze before adding whipped topping for best results.
Conclusion
For more recipe ideas and variations, see the full Hawaiian Poke Cake – The Country Cook recipe for a similar take. You can also compare notes with the Hawaiian Pineapple Poke Cake – Most Delicious Life version for extra tips. Another good reference is Hawaiian Poke Cake – Together as Family for different serving ideas.