Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake for a Tropical Flavor
An Irresistible Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake for a Tropical Flavor
This made-from-scratch Pineapple Poke Cake combines the ease of a mix with the delightful textures of a homemade sponge, resulting in a moist and delicious treat every time. Reminiscent of a classic pineapple upside-down cake, this simplified version is sure to please any crowd!
This simple cake was a staple in my household growing up, thanks to my mom who made it regularly. It quickly became one of my favorite desserts then, and it still holds a special place in my heart now.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best things about this Pineapple Poke Cake is its pantry-friendly ingredients. You can whip it up anytime without special trips to the grocery store. It’s foolproof, always turning out perfectly delicious. Known for their incredible moistness and flavor, poke cakes like this one feature a basic glaze that seeps into every bite, transporting you to pineapple heaven. Plus, it tastes even better the next day!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 12-cup Bundt Pan
- Electric Mixer
- Mixing Bowls
- Wire Rack
- Skewer
Ingredients
- 1 20 oz. can Crushed Pineapple
- 1 Box Yellow Cake Mix
- 1 Package Instant Vanilla Pudding (4 serving size)
- 4 eggs
- ¾ 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: Combine ½ cup powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon cold milk; whisk until completely combined. Cover with plastic wrap until ready to use.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Spray a 12-cup Bundt pan with cooking spray.
- Drain the pineapple, measuring ¾ cup juice to use with the cake mix. Reserve the remaining juice for the soaking mixture.
- In a large bowl, beat the cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, oil, and ¾ cup pineapple juice with an electric mixer for 2 minutes.
- Scrape half of a vanilla bean pod and combine with the cake batter, or mix in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract.
- Fold in the crushed pineapple.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 38 to 42 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the soaking mixture: Combine the remaining pineapple juice, powdered sugar, and melted butter in a small bowl.
- Scrape the other half of the vanilla bean pod and mix it with the juice mixture, or stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract.
- Remove the cake from the oven and set it on a wire rack.
- Poke holes in the cake with a skewer at ½-inch intervals while still hot and in the pan.
- Pour the soaking mixture over the cake (if the mixture begins to pool, poke additional holes). Allow to cool in the pan for 30 to 40 minutes, then flip the cake upside down onto a serving platter and remove the pan.
- Cool completely, then drizzle with Confectioners Glaze, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cake is hot when you pour the soaking mixture for maximum absorption.
- If using vanilla extract, opt for pure vanilla for the best flavor.
- Let the cake cool completely before drizzling with glaze to prevent it from melting off.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For extra flavor, add a splash of rum or coconut extract to the soaking mixture.
- Garnish with toasted coconut flakes or maraschino cherries for a festive touch.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Details coming soon!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? Yes, but make sure to use a juicer or blender to create a similar juice for the batter and soaking mixture.
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, this cake tastes even better the next day, as the flavors intensify.
How should I store leftovers? Keep the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Conclusion
Try this Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake for a taste of the tropics in your own kitchen. We’d love to hear about your culinary adventures, so feel free to share your experience with us in the comments below. Enjoy your slice of paradise!