Hawaiian Poke Cake

Name: Hawaiian Poke Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz); 1 cup pineapple juice (100%); 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)

Published: January 24, 2026

by Saphira

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake can be whipped up in no time.
Tropical Flavor Explosion: The combination of pineapple and coconut creates a refreshing taste that transports you to a sunny beach.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for summer parties, potlucks, or even just a treat at home, this cake fits any event.
Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add crushed macadamia nuts or substitute pineapple with mango for a unique twist.
Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors of the toppings make this cake not only delicious but also beautiful to serve.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Hawaiian Poke Cake requires just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your baking experience is seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk or electric mixer
9×13 inch baking dish
Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spills.
Whisk or electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a smooth batter, making sure all ingredients are well combined for fluffiness.
9×13 inch baking dish: The perfect size for baking your cake evenly and making it easy to poke holes.

Ingredients

For the Cake Base

1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)

For the Moisture

1 cup pineapple juice (100%)
1 cup full-fat coconut milk

For the Topping

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 the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Mix

Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix with water, oil, and eggs as per instructions.
2. Pour the batter into the greased baking dish.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown:
1. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
2. Let cool slightly before poking holes throughout the top using a fork.

Step 4: Add Pineapple Juice Mixture

In another bowl, mix together pineapple juice and coconut milk:
1. Pour this mixture evenly over the cooled cake so it seeps into the holes.

Step 5: Top with Coconut

While still moist, sprinkle sweetened shredded coconut on top of the cake:
1. Ensure an even layer across the surface for maximum flavor.

Step 6: Finish with Whipped Topping

Spread whipped topping generously over the entire cake:
1. Garnish with drained pineapple chunks and maraschino cherries for an appealing finish.

Enjoy your homemade Hawaiian Poke Cake!

How to Serve Hawaiian Poke Cake

Hawaiian Poke Cake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for your taste buds. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Individual Portions

Serve in small cups or bowls for easy handling at gatherings.
This method allows guests to enjoy their own personal serving of this tropical delight.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

Add slices of fresh mango, kiwi, or strawberries on top for added flavor and color.
The freshness of the fruit complements the cake’s rich pineapple and coconut flavors beautifully.

With Coconut Whipped Cream

Use whipped coconut cream instead of regular whipped topping for a dairy-free option.
The light and airy texture enhances the cake while keeping it light and fluffy.

Drizzled with Fruit Sauce

A drizzle of passion fruit or mango sauce can add a tangy twist.
This extra layer of flavor will surprise and delight your guests.

Paired with Ice Cream

Offer a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream alongside each slice.
The cold ice cream contrasts nicely with the moist cake, creating a wonderful texture combination.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Poke Cake

Making the perfect Hawaiian Poke Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out delicious every time.

Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create an even batter that mixes well, ensuring a fluffy texture.
Don’t skip the poking step: Poking holes allows the juice mixture to soak in, enhancing flavor and moisture throughout the cake.
Let the cake cool completely: Cooling ensures that toppings do not melt and maintain their structure on the cake.
Add extra toppings: Consider crushed macadamia nuts or additional shredded coconut for added texture and crunch.
Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Poke Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian Poke Cake can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like papaya, pineapple, and oranges adds freshness.
Coconut Rice: Fluffy rice cooked in coconut milk complements the cake’s tropical flavors beautifully.
Grilled Veggies: A variety of colorful veggies like bell peppers and zucchini can balance out sweetness with savory notes.
Macaroni Salad: A creamy macaroni salad provides a comforting side that pairs well with fruity desserts.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances sweetness with its tangy dressing.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with lime butter gives a sweet and smoky flavor contrast to the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hawaiian Poke Cake, it’s essential to avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before poking holes is crucial. This prevents the juices from running off instead of soaking in.
Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing. Cold items can lead to uneven batter consistency and affect baking.
Not Draining Pineapple Chunks: Failing to drain pineapple chunks can make the cake soggy. Always ensure they are well-drained before adding them to the cake.
Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture. Aim for a golden brown color and check with a toothpick.
Omitting Garnishes: Skipping garnishes like maraschino cherries or coconut can lessen visual appeal and flavor. These elements enhance both presentation and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Hawaiian Poke Cake in an airtight container.
It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Hawaiian Poke Cake

Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Hawaiian Poke Cake

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for 15-20 seconds until warm.
Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat, cover, and heat gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hawaiian Poke Cake?

Hawaiian Poke Cake is a tropical dessert made with a yellow cake soaked in pineapple juice and coconut milk, topped with whipped cream and garnished with fruits.

Can I use other fruits instead of pineapple?

Yes! You can substitute pineapple with mango or other tropical fruits for a unique twist on this Hawaiian Poke Cake recipe.

How long does Hawaiian Poke Cake last?

When stored properly, Hawaiian Poke Cake can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days or up to 2 months when frozen.

Is there a way to make this cake more crunchy?

For added crunch, consider mixing in crushed macadamia nuts into the batter or as a topping before serving.

Can I prepare this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Hawaiian Poke Cake can be made a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Poke Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its vibrant flavors of pineapple and coconut, it’s sure to impress your guests. Feel free to experiment with different fruits or add nuts for extra texture. Try this delightful dessert today!

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