Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake Recipe
A Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake is a moist, delicious dessert made with a simple cake base that’s soaked with a creamy pineapple-coconut mixture. It’s an easy-to-make treat that combines the tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut, perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, typically eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed pineapple in syrup (do not drain)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, depending on preference)
For the Poke Cake Mixture:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (8 oz) coconut milk (or you can substitute with regular milk if preferred)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (for topping)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake:
Preheat the oven according to the instructions on your cake mix box. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish. Prepare the yellow cake mix according to the box instructions, adding the required eggs, water, and oil. Once the batter is mixed, fold in the crushed pineapple (with syrup) and shredded coconut. - Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake according to the package directions, typically 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool slightly, about 10 minutes. - Poke the Cake:
Use a fork or a skewer to poke holes all over the top of the cake while it’s still warm. Be sure to make deep holes so the liquid mixture can soak through. - Prepare the Poke Cake Mixture:
In a bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, and shredded coconut. Stir until well mixed. Pour this mixture over the warm cake, ensuring it seeps into all the holes. - Chill the Cake:
Allow the cake to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover the cake and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results. - Make the Whipped Cream Topping:
In a chilled bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the chilled cake. - Garnish:
Sprinkle shredded coconut over the whipped cream topping for an extra coconut flavor and decoration. - Serve:
Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy your tropical, fluffy pineapple coconut poke cake!
History of Poke Cakes
The poke cake, a classic American dessert, became popular in the 1970s. The method of poking holes in a cake to let in a flavorful filling, usually pudding or gelatin, has since evolved into many creative variations. The pineapple coconut poke cake incorporates tropical flavors, and is a great example of how versatile poke cakes can be. Adding coconut to the topping and inside the cake gives it that unmistakable tropical flair, while pineapple brings both sweetness and a slight tanginess.
Benefits of Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake
- Tropical Flavors: The combination of pineapple and coconut brings a refreshing, tropical taste that’s perfect for warm weather.
- Moist Cake: The poke method ensures the cake is incredibly moist, as the liquid mixture infuses the cake, keeping it soft.
- Easy to Make: Using a box cake mix makes this recipe quick and easy to prepare, while the addition of canned ingredients speeds up the process without compromising on flavor.
- Customizable: You can make this cake your own by adjusting the amount of coconut or pineapple according to your preferences.
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 320-350 calories per serving
- Fat: 18-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40 grams
- Protein: 4 grams
- Sugar: 30 grams
- Fiber: 1-2 grams
Conclusion
Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake is a crowd-pleasing dessert that combines the tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut in a simple, moist, and flavorful cake. It’s the perfect treat for summer parties, family gatherings, or even a special occasion. With minimal preparation and a refreshing taste, this cake is sure to become a new favorite in your dessert rotation.
