Hawaiian Poke Cake is a tropical delight that brings sunshine to your table. This cake features a fluffy yellow base soaked in pineapple and coconut flavors, making it a perfect treat for summer barbecues, birthdays, or any festive gathering. Its vibrant colors and delightful taste create an irresistible dessert that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this cake in no time.
- Tropical Flavor: The combination of pineapple and coconut offers a refreshing taste that transports you to a beach paradise.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a dessert or a sweet snack, this cake fits well at any occasion.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Hawaiian Poke Cake is sure to impress guests with its delightful presentation and flavor.
- Customizable: Add nuts or swap fruit for unique variations that suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Hawaiian Poke Cake effortlessly, you’ll need the right tools. Having the essential equipment ensures smooth preparation and baking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 inch baking dish: The perfect size for even baking and easy serving of the Hawaiian Poke Cake.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills and messes.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter when mixing the cake ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 cup pineapple juice (100%)
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
For Toppings
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (drained)
- 1 cup whipped topping
- ¼ cup maraschino cherries (for garnish)
How to Make Hawaiian Poke Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Mix
Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package instructions. Pour the batter into the greased baking dish.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown. Allow it to cool slightly before poking holes throughout the top using a fork.
Step 4: Add Pineapple and Coconut Mixture
In a bowl, mix together pineapple juice and coconut milk. Pour this mixture evenly over the cooled cake so it seeps into the holes.
Step 5: Top with Coconut
While the cake is still moist, sprinkle sweetened shredded coconut generously on top.
Step 6: Finish with Whipped Topping
Spread whipped topping evenly over the entire cake. Garnish with drained pineapple chunks and maraschino cherries for an eye-catching finish.
Now you’re ready to serve your delightful Hawaiian Poke Cake! Enjoy every bite of this tropical treat that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.
How to Serve Hawaiian Poke Cake
Hawaiian Poke Cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or a family gathering, these suggestions will enhance your cake experience.
Individual Servings
- Serve each slice on a colorful plate for a festive look.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess.
With Fresh Fruit
- Pair with fresh tropical fruits like mango or kiwi to complement the flavors.
- Use a fruit salad as a side dish to add freshness and color.
Ice Cream Delight
- Serve alongside vanilla or coconut ice cream for a creamy contrast.
- Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for added sweetness.
At The Center of a Dessert Table
- Place the Hawaiian Poke Cake as the centerpiece of your dessert table.
- Surround it with other tropical-themed desserts for a cohesive look.
Garnish Options
- Top with additional maraschino cherries for an eye-catching finish.
- Sprinkle extra shredded coconut over the whipped topping for texture.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Poke Cake
To make the best Hawaiian Poke Cake, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your dessert.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures better mixing and fluffier cake texture.
- Don’t skip the poking: Making holes in the cake allows the juices to soak in, adding moisture and flavor.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerating the cake for a few hours enhances the flavors and makes it more refreshing.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding crushed macadamia nuts or fresh berries to add crunch and variety.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the cake a day in advance; it tastes even better after sitting overnight.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of sugar in your whipped topping.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Poke Cake
To round out your meal, consider these tasty side dishes that pair well with Hawaiian Poke Cake. They complement its tropical flavors while providing variety.
- Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Sweet pineapples grilled to caramelized perfection add smoky flavors that enhance your dessert.
- Coconut Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with coconut milk offers a deliciously creamy side that ties into the cake’s theme.
- Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides brightness and balances the richness of the cake.
- Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crunch and complements the sweetness nicely.
- BBQ Chicken Wings: Spicy wings bring contrast to the sweet poke cake, making for an exciting flavor combination.
- Macaroni Salad: A creamy macaroni salad is perfect for soaking up flavors while offering comfort alongside your dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hawaiian Poke Cake, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of this delightful dessert.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the cake to cool before poking holes is crucial. If you don’t, the juices won’t soak in properly, leading to a dry cake.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Always let your ingredients reach room temperature for optimal mixing. Cold ingredients can hinder the batter’s ability to rise and create a fluffy texture.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light, airy texture you want for Hawaiian Poke Cake.
- Not Draining Pineapple Chunks: Ensure pineapple chunks are well-drained before adding them. Excess liquid can make your cake soggy and impact its overall taste.
- Neglecting Garnishes: Don’t skip the whipped topping or maraschino cherries! These add visual appeal and enhance the dessert’s flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep it covered to prevent drying out.
Freezing Hawaiian Poke Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe container.
- Best consumed within 2 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Hawaiian Poke Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place slices on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use medium power and heat individual slices for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Warm for about 5 minutes or until desired temperature is reached.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Hawaiian Poke Cake that might help you perfect your baking experience.
What makes Hawaiian Poke Cake unique?
Hawaiian Poke Cake stands out due to its tropical flavors from pineapple and coconut, creating a refreshing dessert that brings a taste of Hawaii to your table.
Can I use different fruits in my Hawaiian Poke Cake?
Absolutely! You can substitute pineapple with mango or other tropical fruits for a unique twist while still enjoying that moist cake texture.
How do I ensure my Hawaiian Poke Cake stays moist?
Make sure not to skip soaking the cake with pineapple juice and coconut milk after baking. This step keeps the cake moist and flavorful.
Can I make Hawaiian Poke Cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, covered, until you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Poke Cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. With its refreshing flavors and vibrant garnishes, it’s perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or nuts for added crunch. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Hawaiian Poke Cake
Hawaiian Poke Cake is a delightful tropical dessert that captures the essence of summer. This easy-to-make cake features a fluffy yellow base infused with luscious pineapple and creamy coconut flavors, creating a sweet escape to paradise with every bite. Perfect for barbecues, birthdays, or any festive occasion, this vibrant cake not only looks stunning but also pleases taste buds of all ages. With its refreshing taste and customizable toppings like whipped cream and maraschino cherries, Hawaiian Poke Cake is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (drained)
- 1 cup whipped topping
- ¼ cup maraschino cherries (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package instructions and pour into the baking dish.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool slightly, then poke holes in the top using a fork.
- In a bowl, combine pineapple juice and coconut milk and pour evenly over the cooled cake.
- Sprinkle shredded coconut on top while the cake is still moist.
- Spread whipped topping over the entire cake and garnish with drained pineapple chunks and maraschino cherries.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
