Name: Delightful Hawaiian Poke Cake to Brighten Your Day
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 box Yellow Cake Mix (A reliable base for a fluffy texture; opt for a high-quality brand.); 1 cup Pineapple Juice (Provides that essential tropical flavor; always go for 100% juice.); 1 can Coconut Milk (Brings a luscious creaminess; full-fat is preferred.); 1 cup Pineapple Chunks (Adds juicy bites; fresh or well-drained canned works best.); 1 cup Sweetened Shredded Coconut (Offers lovely texture and tropical flair.); 1 container Whipped Topping (Cool Whip is a perfect convenient option.); 1 jar Maraschino Cherries (Add a pop of color and sweetness.)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the warm sunshine streaming through the window, I couldn’t help but feel transported to a sandy beach with the scent of tropical fruits swirling around me. That’s when I decided to whip up a Hawaiian Poke Cake, an undeniably delightful treat that captures the essence of paradise. This easy-to-make dessert is not only a feast for the eyes, but it also brings a rush of creamy coconut and zesty pineapple to every bite. Whether it’s a lively summer barbecue or a cozy family gathering, this Hawaiian Poke Cake is perfect for any occasion. Plus, its versatility allows for endless variations—think mango instead of pineapple for an exciting twist! Who wouldn’t want a slice of the tropics on their plate? Let’s dive into this cheerful recipe and bring a taste of the islands home!

Why is Hawaiian Poke Cake a Must-Try?

Tropical Escape: This Hawaiian Poke Cake is a delightful way to transport your taste buds to a sun-soaked paradise, making it perfect for those who crave a little island flair in their desserts.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients like yellow cake mix and pineapple juice, you can whip this up with minimal effort.

Versatile Options: Customize it with mango or add crushed macadamia nuts for a unique twist, giving you the freedom to make it your own!

Crowd Pleaser: Ideal for summer barbecues or family gatherings, this cake is sure to be a hit, leaving friends and family asking for seconds.

Vibrant Layers: The colorful toppings of whipped cream, pineapple, and cherries create a feast for the eyes, making your dessert table irresistibly inviting.

This Lemon Cake Deliciously complements your tropical theme, while a Blueberry Cheesecake Bar adds a fruity contrast for your next gathering!

Hawaiian Poke Cake Ingredients

• You’ll want the best ingredients to create a truly delightful Hawaiian Poke Cake.

For the Cake

Yellow Cake Mix – A reliable base for a fluffy texture; opt for a high-quality brand for superior results.
Pineapple Juice – Provides that essential tropical flavor; always go for 100% juice for the best taste.

For the Soak

Coconut Milk – Brings a luscious creaminess; full-fat is preferred for richness.
Pineapple Chunks – Adds juicy bites; fresh or well-drained canned works best to avoid sogginess.

For the Toppings

Sweetened Shredded Coconut – Offers lovely texture and tropical flair; don’t skimp on this!
Whipped Topping – Creates a creamy, dreamy layer; Cool Whip is a perfect convenient option.
Maraschino Cherries – Add a pop of color and sweetness as the final touch; they make every slice extra special.

Your Hawaiian Poke Cake is set to be a showstopper with these ingredients! Enjoy the tropical flavors in every delightful bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Poke Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures your Hawaiian Poke Cake will release easily once baked. While the oven heats, gather your cake mix ingredients so they’re ready for use.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Mix
In a large mixing bowl, prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package instructions, typically combining it with eggs, water, and oil. Mix well until the batter is smooth, with no lumps. Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, making sure it covers the bottom completely for even baking.

Step 3: Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the cake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye out for a golden-brown top and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Poke Holes in the Cake
After the cake has cooled slightly, use a fork to poke holes all over its surface. This step is essential for allowing the tropical flavors to soak in, which makes your Hawaiian Poke Cake irresistibly moist. Poke holes about 1 inch apart, ensuring even distribution across the cake.

Step 5: Prepare the Soak Mixture
In a separate bowl, mix together the pineapple juice and coconut milk until well combined. The mixture should be creamy and fragrant. Take your time with this step, as the soak adds the tropical twist that will elevate your Hawaiian Poke Cake to dreamy heights.

Step 6: Pour the Soak Over the Cake
Carefully pour the pineapple and coconut mixture evenly over the poked cake, allowing it to soak in. You will notice some of the liquid pooling on top initially—this is perfect! Give it a few minutes for the cake to absorb the mixture as it transforms into a tropical delight.

Step 7: Add Shredded Coconut
While the cake is still moist from the soak, sprinkle sweetened shredded coconut generously over the top. This adds that delightful texture and signature tropical flair to your Hawaiian Poke Cake. Make sure to cover the surface evenly for a beautiful presentation.

Step 8: Top with Whipped Topping
Using a spatula, spread whipped topping generously over the cake, ensuring you cover all the shredded coconut completely. This creamy layer provides a delightful contrast to the refreshingly fruity soaked cake and will set the stage for your final garnishes.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Hawaiian Poke Cake by adding pineapple chunks and maraschino cherries on top, creating an eye-catching display. Slice into squares and serve at your next gathering, inviting everyone to indulge in a taste of the tropics. Enjoy the burst of flavor with every delightful bite!

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Poke Cake

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days, keeping the cake moist and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Thawing: To enjoy, thaw the Hawaiian Poke Cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving, or heat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds.

Reheating: To reclaim its fresh-baked taste, microwave individual slices on low power for about 10 seconds, ensuring they stay perfectly moist.

Hawaiian Poke Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Hawaiian Poke Cake and make it uniquely yours with these delightful twists!

Mango Twist: Substitute pineapple with ripe mango for a sweeter, tropical experience that sings of summer sunshine.
Mango brings a luscious sweetness that complements the coconut perfectly, giving your cake an exotic flair.
Passion Fruit Magic: Use passion fruit juice in place of pineapple juice for a tangy, invigorating twist that brightens each bite.
The zing of passion fruit adds an unexpected pop, transporting your taste buds to a sunny getaway!
Nutty Delight: Add crushed macadamia nuts to the topping for a creamy crunch that elevates the texture and flavor profile.
These rich nuts introduce a delightful contrast to the softness of the cake, making every slice an indulgent treat.
Berry Bliss: Incorporate mixed berries like strawberries or blueberries as an additional layer to enhance the cake’s visual appeal.
The vibrant colors create an eye-catching presentation, while the tartness of berries balances the sweetness beautifully.
Coconut Cream: Opt for coconut cream instead of coconut milk for an extra layer of richness that takes your cake to creamy heights.
The added creaminess enhances the overall indulgence, making your Hawaiian Poke Cake a truly decadent affair.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix for a warm hint of spice that beautifully complements the tropical flavors.
These warm spices offer a comforting finish, creating a cozy bite that wraps around you like a beach blanket.
Pudding Surprise: Consider adding a layer of tropical-flavored pudding beneath the whipped topping for extra creaminess and a burst of flavor.
This twist creates hidden pockets of delight in every slice, introducing surprise elements that will wow your guests.

Want to elevate your dessert table even further? Pair this cake with a Churro Cheesecake Indulge or a refreshing Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Poke Cake

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of a Hawaiian Poke Cake by pairing it with delightful sides that enhance its tropical essence.

Grilled Pineapple Skewers: The smoky sweetness from grilled pineapple complements the cake’s fruity notes, adding a charred finish to your meal. Serve these as a fresh appetizer to set the stage for dessert.
Coconut Shrimp: Crunchy and delicious, coconut shrimp brings a tropical flair, and its crispiness contrasts beautifully with the cake’s creamy topping. It’s an irresistible combo that’s sure to impress at gatherings.
Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh mangoes, kiwis, and berries amplifies the tropical vibe. Toss in a squeeze of lime for a refreshing zing that balances the cake’s sweetness.
Lemon Sorbet: A light and tangy sorbet serves as the perfect palate cleanser between bites of the rich cake, making your dessert experience feel even more refreshing.
Mango Smoothie: Creamy, dreamy mango smoothies enrich your tropical theme and provide a nutritious, fruity drink option that complements the Poke Cake effortlessly.
Macadamia Nut Cookies: These chewy treats bring a lovely nutty flavor and a delightful texture, providing a satisfying finish after serving the cake. They echo the tropical flair while offering a different taste.
Iced Tea with Mint: A chilled mint-infused iced tea delivers a cooling sip alongside your cake, accentuating its fruity notes while keeping the flavor profile refreshing.
Chocolate Dipped Berries: For a touch of indulgence, chocolate-covered strawberries align well with the tropical flavors of the cake. The richness of chocolate adds a decadent touch that everyone will love.

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Poke Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can bake the cake itself up to 24 hours in advance. Once cooled, poke holes and prepare the pineapple juice and coconut milk soaking mixture, but wait to pour it over until you’re ready to serve. This ensures the cake maintains its moist texture. You can also mix the whipped topping and store it in the refrigerator separately. When you’re ready to enjoy your Hawaiian Poke Cake, simply pour the soak over the cake, add the shredded coconut, and top with whipped cream and garnishes. By prepping ahead, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort!

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Poke Cake

• Cool Before Topping: Allow your cake to cool completely before adding toppings to avoid a soggy mess.

• Ingredient Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and liquids, are at room temperature for optimal mixing and texture in your Hawaiian Poke Cake.

• Moisture Control: Drain pineapple chunks well to prevent excess moisture in the cake; sogginess can ruin the final texture.

• Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to swap pineapple for mango or passion fruit for a delightful twist, enhancing the tropical experience.

• Storage Secrets: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. A quick microwave warm-up puts the cake back to its fresh-baked glory!

Hawaiian Poke Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for my Hawaiian Poke Cake?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose a high-quality yellow cake mix; it makes a noticeable difference in fluffiness. Use 100% pineapple juice without additives for a natural sweet flavor, and opt for full-fat coconut milk, as it gives depth and creaminess that enhances the dessert. Remember to select fresh pineapple chunks or well-drained canned pineapple—this helps prevent sogginess!

How should I store my Hawaiian Poke Cake after baking?
Very important! Store your Hawaiian Poke Cake leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps the cake moist and flavorful. If you find yourself with more than you can eat, you can easily freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag; they’ll last up to 3 months! Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Can I freeze my Hawaiian Poke Cake?
Definitely! To freeze your Hawaiian Poke Cake, first, ensure it has cooled completely. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them inside a freezer-safe bag or container. This method helps maintain moisture while in the freezer. When you’re ready to dig in, simply remove a slice and let it thaw overnight in the fridge. You can also warm slices in the microwave for about 10 seconds if you’re craving that fresh-baked taste.

What should I do if my cake becomes soggy?
Oh dear! A soggy cake can happen if the soak mixture is poured when the cake is still too warm or if the pineapple chunks were not well-drained. To avoid this, wait until the cake has completely cooled before poking holes and adding the soak. To salvage a soggy cake, consider refrigerating it for a bit—sometimes chilling allows excess moisture to escape.

Are there any dietary considerations for the Hawaiian Poke Cake?
While this delightful cake doesn’t have specific dietary restrictions, if you have guests with allergies, it’s always wise to check! The cake includes gluten from the cake mix, and dairy from the whipped topping. If you’re making it for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free cake mix and a dairy-free whipped topping to adapt the recipe. The more the merrier—everyone should enjoy this treat!