Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake

Oh wow, I just made the sweetest cake ever! It is called pineapple sunshine cake. It looks so pretty and yellow.

It has pineapple and creamy topping. It tastes light and so yummy. I feel happy with every bite.

I want to eat it all day. My family loves it too. It makes me think of sunshine.

Let’s make it together. Grab some pineapple and mix it up. It will be so fun and sweet!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Reader Favorite: This cake is the definition of crowd-pleasing. Readers often say it’s “deliciously addictive” and “the perfect cake for any event.”
• Moist and Flavorful: The crushed pineapple and pudding mix combine to make this cake incredibly moist and flavorful. It’s a dessert that stays fresh for days!
• Easy to Make: No need for complicated techniques or ingredients. This cake uses a simple cake mix and a few pantry staples to create something extraordinary.
• Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday, a holiday, or just a weekday treat, this cake fits every occasion.
• No Bake Topping: With Cool Whip on top, this cake gets a smooth, creamy finish that will leave you craving more.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before you start, gather up these basic tools that will make your baking process a breeze:

• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple of mixing bowls to combine ingredients and prepare the layers.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: The perfect size for this cake. It’s great for serving a large group, and the cake bakes evenly in this size.
• Electric Mixer (optional): While you can mix everything by hand, an electric mixer can make the process a little quicker and easier.
• Spatula or Whisk: For mixing and spreading the batter or topping.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure your ingredients are properly measured.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious, tropical cake (exact measurements can be found in the recipe card at the end):

• Yellow Cake Mix: The base of the cake is a simple box of yellow cake mix. It’s the perfect foundation for all the layers of flavor you’ll add.
• Milk (divided): This will be used to moisten the cake mix, and also to mix with the pudding. I recommend using whole milk for the best richness, but you can substitute with almond milk or another alternative if needed.
• Vegetable Oil: This helps create a moist cake. If you want a slightly different flavor, you can substitute with melted butter.
• Eggs: You’ll need eggs to bind the cake ingredients together. They’ll also help give the cake structure and stability.
• Crushed Pineapple: The star of the show! The pineapple brings natural sweetness and moisture to the cake. Be sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid.
• White Sugar: The sugar adds sweetness to the cake, balancing out the tangy pineapple and the richness of the pudding.
• Box Instant Vanilla Pudding: The pudding mix not only enhances the flavor but also adds to the cake’s moist texture. The vanilla flavor pairs perfectly with the tropical pineapple.
• Cool Whip (thawed): The topping is made of Cool Whip, which is light, fluffy, and a great complement to the rich cake and pudding.
• Chopped Pecans: The nuts add a bit of crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the softness of the cake.
• Sweetened Shredded Coconut: A sprinkling of coconut on top gives this cake a beautiful texture and adds a fun tropical vibe.

Variations for Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake

While this cake is already bursting with flavor, here are some easy variations you can try to give it your own twist:

• Add Fresh Fruit: For a more vibrant twist, you could add fresh chopped fruit like strawberries, mango, or kiwi to the top of the cake. This will add more color and flavor.
• Make it Dairy-Free: If you’re looking to make this cake dairy-free, you can use coconut milk and a dairy-free whipped topping instead of regular Cool Whip.
• Use a Different Cake Mix: Feel free to experiment with other cake mixes like white cake, butter cake, or even lemon cake for a fun change.
• Incorporate Coconut Milk: For an even more tropical flavor, you can substitute part or all of the milk with coconut milk. It will add a creamy coconut flavor that pairs wonderfully with pineapple.
• Substitute for Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can use walnuts or almonds instead. Or, if you prefer a nut-free option, simply leave them out altogether.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Baking Dish

Before anything else, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 1 cup of milk, vegetable oil, and eggs. Using a hand or stand mixer, mix on medium speed until everything is well combined and smooth. The batter will be slightly thick.

3. Add the Pineapple and Bake the Cake

Next, stir in the drained crushed pineapple. The pineapple adds moisture and sweetness to the cake batter, so make sure it’s evenly distributed. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.

Bake the cake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely.

Step-by-Step Instructions (Continued)

4. Prepare the Pudding Mixture

While the cake is cooling, you can prepare the pudding topping. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix with 2 cups of cold milk. Whisk the mixture for about 2 minutes until it thickens. The pudding should be creamy and smooth.

Once the pudding is set, take a spatula and gently spread it over the cooled cake, making sure to cover every inch of the surface. The pudding will create a soft, velvety layer on top of the cake.

5. Add the Cool Whip

After the pudding layer is spread out, it’s time to add the Cool Whip topping. Using a spatula, spread the thawed Cool Whip evenly over the pudding layer. The Cool Whip gives the cake a light, fluffy texture and adds a creamy finish.

6. Garnish with Coconut and Pecans

Now comes the fun part: garnishing your cake! Sprinkle a generous amount of sweetened shredded coconut over the top, giving the cake that signature tropical look and taste. Follow it up by sprinkling the chopped pecans (or your preferred nuts) over the coconut. This adds texture and a bit of crunch that complements the smooth layers beneath.

7. Chill the Cake

Once the cake is fully assembled, cover it with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. Chilling the cake allows the layers to set and meld together, making each bite perfectly balanced. Plus, it makes the cake even more refreshing to serve.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake

• Serve as a Dessert: This cake is best served as a light and tropical dessert after a hearty meal. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, summer salads, or any dish that has a bold, savory flavor.
• Perfect for Parties: Whether it’s a birthday party, family gathering, or potluck, this cake will be the star of the dessert table. It’s easy to slice and serve to large groups.
• Great for BBQs and Summer Get-Togethers: The light, refreshing flavor makes this cake the ideal summer treat. Serve it chilled to beat the heat.
• Topped with Fresh Fruit: For an extra burst of flavor and color, top your cake slices with fresh fruit like pineapple chunks, strawberries, or blueberries. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the presentation pop!

How to Decorate Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake

This cake already has a stunning look with the coconut and pecan topping, but here are a few more ways to make it even more beautiful:

• Add More Tropical Fruit: Garnish the top with fresh pineapple slices, maraschino cherries, or kiwi slices for a beautiful, vibrant look.
• Sprinkle with Lime Zest: If you want a little extra zest, sprinkle some fresh lime zest on top of the cake. It adds a subtle tang that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pineapple and coconut.
• Drizzle with Pineapple Syrup: For even more tropical flair, drizzle some pineapple syrup or juice over the top of the cake before serving. This can also enhance the flavor and add a little extra moisture.

Storing Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake

• In the Refrigerator: This cake needs to be kept refrigerated since it contains pudding and Cool Whip. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Freezing the Cake: While this cake can be frozen, the texture of the Cool Whip topping may change. If you plan to freeze it, I recommend freezing the cake without the Cool Whip topping. After thawing, add the Cool Whip and garnish before serving.
• Storage Tips: To maintain the cake’s freshness, keep it covered with plastic wrap or foil. If you have leftovers, be sure to store them in the refrigerator to keep the cake moist and flavorful.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Here’s a general idea of the nutrition per slice (based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350 kcal
Protein	3g
Total Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	8g
Carbohydrates	45g
Sugars	30g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	150mg
Cholesterol	35mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient substitutions or portion sizes.

Notes:

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare this cake the day before your event and let it chill overnight for the best results.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Tropical Twist: Add fresh fruit on top like sliced strawberries or pineapple chunks for a more festive look.

Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix?

Yes! You can easily swap the yellow cake mix for a white cake mix, lemon cake mix, or even a coconut cake mix for a more tropical vibe.

Can I make this cake without nuts or coconut?

Absolutely! You can leave out the pecans and coconut if you prefer a simpler cake. It will still be delicious!

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

While canned pineapple works best in this recipe, you can use fresh pineapple if you prefer. Just be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

How long can I store the cake in the fridge?

This cake can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cover it well with plastic wrap or foil to maintain its freshness.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake before adding the Cool Whip topping. Freeze it for up to 1-2 months. When ready to serve, add the Cool Whip and toppings after it has thawed.

Final Thoughts

Southern Pineapple Sunshine Cake is one of those timeless desserts that has everything you want in a cake: sweetness, flavor, texture, and ease of preparation. It’s a dessert that brings joy with every bite, and its tropical flair will transport you straight to paradise. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it at home, this cake will surely be the highlight of your dessert table.

Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—it’s one of those desserts everyone will be asking for seconds of. I hope you give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite!