Pineapple Sunshine Cake

Pineapple Sunshine Cake is one of those desserts that looks almost too simple until you take the first bite. It’s light, moist, and unexpectedly bright, with pineapple woven through every layer. I’ve made this cake for potlucks where it disappeared faster than anything else on the table, and the reason is its ease and balance. Nothing feels heavy, nothing feels overworked, and it always tastes like it belongs at a happy gathering.

Why This Cake Is a Crowd Favorite

This cake leans into simplicity while delivering flavor that feels fresh and cheerful.

Soft, tender crumb with no dryness
Pineapple flavor that stays light, not syrupy
Minimal ingredients and no complicated steps
Stays moist for days
Easy to dress up or keep casual

Ingredients

Cake Batter

1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
4 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained

Whipped Topping Frosting

1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 cup cold milk
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed

Optional Garnishes

Shredded coconut
Maraschino cherries
Crushed pineapple (well-drained)

Instructions / Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, oil, and crushed pineapple with juice
Mix until smooth and well blended

Step 3: Bake

Pour batter into prepared dish
Bake for 30–35 minutes
Cake should be golden and set in the center

Step 4: Cool Completely

Let cake cool fully before frosting
This prevents the topping from melting

Step 5: Make the Frosting

Whisk pudding mix with cold milk until thick
Fold in whipped topping gently

Step 6: Frost and Chill

Spread frosting evenly over cooled cake
Chill at least 1 hour before serving

Preparation & Baking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: About 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 12–15

Texture and Flavor Notes

This cake is all about lightness.

Cake stays fluffy yet moist
Pineapple adds natural sweetness and freshness
Frosting is creamy without being heavy
Chilled texture makes it especially refreshing

It’s the kind of dessert people don’t realize they’ve eaten two slices of.

@vanessakramerauthor

Helpful Tips for Best Results

Use crushed pineapple with juice, not syrup
Cool the cake completely before frosting
Fold whipped topping gently to keep it airy
Chill before slicing for clean pieces
Garnish just before serving for best look

Serving Suggestions

Pineapple Sunshine Cake is best served cold.

Perfect for summer gatherings
Pair with iced tea or lemonade
Add extra fruit on the side
Serve as a light finish to heavy meals

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigerator

Store covered for up to 4 days

Freezer

Freeze unfrosted cake layers if needed
Frost after thawing for best texture

Transporting

Keep chilled and covered during travel

Easy Variations

Tropical Sunshine Cake

Add shredded coconut to batter
Garnish with toasted coconut

Mandarin Pineapple Cake

Add drained mandarin oranges to batter

Pineapple Cream Cheese Frosting

Replace pudding frosting with cream cheese-based topping

Lighter Option

Use sugar-free pudding mix
Reduce frosting layer thickness

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Draining the pineapple
Frosting a warm cake
Overmixing the batter
Skipping chill time
Using heavy frosting alternatives

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead?

Yes, it tastes even better after chilling overnight.

Does this cake need refrigeration?

Yes, because of the whipped topping frosting.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

You can, but stabilize it or serve the same day.

Can I make this in a round pan?

Yes, but adjust baking time accordingly.

Is this cake overly sweet?

No, the pineapple keeps it balanced and light.

Why This Cake Always Brings Smiles

Pineapple Sunshine Cake earns its name. It’s bright, easy, and quietly irresistible, the kind of dessert that fits any occasion without trying too hard. Whether you’re serving it at a party or slicing into it straight from the fridge, it delivers exactly what it promises—simple, sunny comfort.