Indulge in Sweet Paradise: Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake
If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s bursting with tropical flavor, then our Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake is the perfect treat for you! This moist and decadent cake features layers of yellow cake infused with pineapple goodness, topped with a luscious vanilla pudding filling, and finished with a sweet pineapple glaze. It’s the ultimate dessert for pineapple lovers and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Join us as we explore the tantalizing world of Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake, complete with ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions to cater to all tastes. Let’s dive into this heavenly dessert adventure!
Ingredients:
- 1 20 oz. can Crushed Pineapple
- 1 Box Yellow Cake Mix
- 1 Package Instant Vanilla Pudding (4 serving size)
- 4 eggs
- 3/4 cup Vegetable Oil
- 1 Vanilla Bean Pod, split in half, vanilla scraped with spoon or 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
- Confectioners Glaze: 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon cold milk, whisked until completely combined
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, instant vanilla pudding mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and scraped vanilla seeds (or vanilla extract). Mix until well combined.
- Add Pineapple: Fold in the crushed pineapple (including the juice) until evenly distributed throughout the cake batter.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the cake batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake in a preheated oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar and melted butter to create the glaze. Mix until smooth and set aside.
- Poke Holes: Once the cake is baked and still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface of the cake.
- Glaze the Cake: Drizzle the prepared glaze over the warm cake, making sure to fill the holes and cover the entire surface.
- Chill and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the glaze to set. Slice and serve chilled.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Extra Pineapple Flavor: For even more pineapple flavor, you can add pineapple extract or pineapple juice to the cake batter.
- Tropical Toppings: Garnish the cake with fresh pineapple slices, toasted coconut, or maraschino cherries for a tropical twist.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of this recipe, use a low-carb yellow cake mix or make your own almond flour-based cake. Substitute the sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
- Low Carb Version: Follow the keto version instructions, but also consider reducing the amount of crushed pineapple and using a sugar-free vanilla pudding mix to lower the carb content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? A: Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but you may need to adjust the sweetness of the cake batter accordingly since canned pineapple typically contains added sugar.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to serve. The flavors actually develop even more after chilling, making it a great make-ahead dessert for parties.
Q: Can I freeze leftover cake? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover cake slices in an airtight container for up to 1-2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
In conclusion, our Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist cake layers, creamy pudding filling, and sweet pineapple glaze, it’s a true crowd-pleaser that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this cake is sure to satisfy. So why wait? Whip up a batch of Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake today and indulge in a slice of sweet paradise!
