Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake

Name: Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 cup pineapple juice; 1 cup sugar

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Okay, friends, let me tell you about this Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake. It’s like sunshine on a plate, seriously! I remember my grandma making something similar when I was little, but hers was always a bit…dry. This one? This one’s bursting with flavor and so moist, it practically melts in your mouth. It’s kind of like a Tres Leches Cake, but with a tropical twist that I think you’re absolutely going to adore. I swear, the first time I made it, it disappeared in a flash! The sweet, tangy pineapple glaze seeps into every little hole, making each bite an absolute dream. This recipe for pineapple glazed poke cake is a total showstopper, and it’s so easy, even my kids can help out.

What is a Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake?

Think of it as your favorite vanilla cake getting a tropical vacation. A Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake is essentially a baked cake that’s been poked full of holes and then drenched in a luscious pineapple glaze. The glaze soaks into the cake, creating this incredibly moist and flavorful treat. The “poke” part is what makes it special – those little holes act like tiny flavor pockets, ensuring every bite is packed with that sweet and tangy pineapple goodness. Honestly, it’s genius! It’s super simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or just a regular Tuesday when you need a little bit of sunshine in your life.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Listen, there are a million cake recipes out there, but this Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake? It’s special. What I love most about this recipe is how incredibly moist it is. Forget dry, crumbly cakes – this one practically melts in your mouth! The flavor combination of the vanilla cake and the tangy pineapple glaze is just divine. It’s sweet, but not overly so, and the pineapple adds this refreshing zing that keeps you coming back for more. This is probably one of my favorite poke cake recipes.

Is simplicity a win? I don’t need to be a professional baker to nail this recipe. Is it easy to make a quick and easy recipe? Plus, the ingredients are all pretty common, so you probably have most of them in your pantry. What are some of the best ways to make a delicious cake without breaking the bank? I mean, who doesn’t love a tasty dessert that costs nothing to make?

What is the versatility of a smartphone? Is this cake good for breakfast with yogurt? Dinner party, or just as a cozy snack on rainy afternoon. Is it perfect any time of the day? Is it better than a box mix? What are the best ways to get Is this Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake a staple in your recipe? Is it that good?

How do you make a Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake?

Quick Overview

How do you make a Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake? How do you poke holes in vanilla cake? ), and then pour a sweet and tangy pineapple glaze into those holes. The glaze soaks into the cake, making it incredibly moist and flavorful. Is it really easier than it sounds, and the results are absolutely worth it. What is the best part about watching the glaze disappear into the cake, knowing that every single bite is a treat. Is it packed with deliciousness?

Ingredients

For the Main Batter:
* 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix: Any brand works, but I find that the ones with pudding in the mix tend to be extra moist.
* 1 cup water: Just regular tap water is fine.
* 1/3 cup vegetable oil: You can also use melted coconut oil for a slightly different flavor profile.
* 3 large eggs: Make sure they’re at room temperature for the best results.

For the Filling:
* 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, undrained: Don’t drain it! The juice is key for making the cake extra moist. * 1/2 cup granulated sugar: What is the best way to sweeten a pineapple?

For the Glaze:
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter: How do I control the amount of salt in a glaze? * 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps to create a smooth, glossy glaze. * 1/4 cup heavy cream: Makes the glaze rich and decadent. How do I reduce my belly fat with half and half? * 1/4 cup pineapple juice (reserved from the crushed pineapple): 1 cup. What is the flavor of pineapple in a glaze? What is the best glaze for a strawberry?

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch Baking Pan. I always use a little shortening to grease the pan, then dust it with flour. What is the best way to clean a cake?

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Set aside. Beat with electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, or until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps! Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Since we’re using a cake mix, there aren’t really “wet” ingredients to mix separately. But, make sure your eggs are at room temperature. It really does make a difference in how well they incorporate into the batter. I usually take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before I start baking.

Step 4: Combine

You already did! Just make sure everything is thoroughly mixed. If you see any streaks of dry cake mix, gently fold them in with a spatula until they disappear. Don’t overmix!

Step 5: Prepare Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine the undrained crushed pineapple and granulated sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until slightly thickened. This step is crucial for intensifying the pineapple flavor. I like to stir it occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Step 6: Layer & Swirl

How do I spread the Cake Batter in a baking pan? Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before poking holes all over it with a fork or the knife. What is the handle of a wooden spoon? The more holes, the better! How do you pour the warm pineapple mixture over the top of the cake? Let the cake cool completely.

Step 7: Bake

As mentioned in step 6, bake for 30-35 minutes. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on it. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil.

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, heavy cream, and reserved pineapple juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Once the cake is completely cooled, pour the glaze over the top, spreading it evenly. I like to put the cake in the fridge for a bit to let the glaze set before serving.

Step 9: Slice & Serve

How do you slice a cake into squares? What are some good garnishes to serve with whipped cream? Tropical flair.

What should I serve it with?

What are some good ideas for a Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake?

For Breakfast: A slice of this cake alongside a cup of strong coffee is a surprisingly delightful way to start the day. The sweetness of the cake pairs perfectly with the bitterness of the coffee. I sometimes add a dollop of Greek Yogurt for a little extra protein and tang.

For Brunch: Dress it up with a beautiful platter presentation. Arrange slices on a cake stand and garnish with fresh pineapple chunks, maraschino cherries, and a sprig of mint. Serve with mimosas or a refreshing glass of iced tea.

As Dessert:After a hearty dinner, if you’ve never had cake before, it’s the perfect end to your meal. Serve with vanilla Ice Cream or whipped cream. Can you drizzle it with a little extra pineapple juice for added flavor?

For Cozy Snacks:On a rainy afternoon, nothing beats curling up on the couch with ice cream and snickers. What is comfort food?

My family loves this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s a classic combination that never fails to please. I also sometimes make a quick pineapple salsa to serve on top for a sweet and savory twist.

How do you make a Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake?

Okay, so I’ve made this Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake more times than I can count, and I have learned a lot from it. What are some tricks along the way? How do I make it perfect?

Pineapple PrepDon’t drain pineapple completely! What makes the filling so moist? If you have liquid in your system, just let it sit in a strainer for 5 minutes to remove any excess liquid, but be sure to reserve it for later. What is the juice for the glaze?

Mixing Advice: Be careful not to overmix the cake batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

What is a PoDon’t be shy about poking holes in your cake! The more holes, the more glaze can soak in, resulting in a super moist and flavorful cake. I like to use the handle of a wooden spoon to make the holes, but I also use sander.

Ingredient Swaps:If you’re not a fan of yellow cake mix, you can use white cake mixes instead. Can you substitute the heavy cream in the glaze with half-and-half for a slightly lighter glaze?

Baking Tips: Keep an eye on the cake while it’s baking. Every oven is different, so the baking time may vary. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil.

Glaze Variations: For a richer glaze, use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. You can also add a pinch of salt to the glaze to balance out the sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of rum or coconut extract to the glaze for a tropical twist.

I’ve also learned that letting the cake cool completely before adding the glaze is crucial. If the cake is still warm, the glaze will melt and run off.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake is best served cold, but here are a few tips for storing and reheating it:

Room Temperature: You can store the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. Again, make sure to cover it tightly or store it in an airtight container.

Freezer Instructions: If you want to freeze the cake, cut it into individual slices and wrap each slice tightly with plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped slices in a freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply remove the slices from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Glaze Timing Advice: I recommend adding the glaze just before serving. If you’re storing the cake for more than a day, the glaze may start to soften the cake. If you’re freezing the cake, it’s best to freeze it without the glaze and add the glaze after thawing.

I’ve found that the cake actually tastes even better the next day, after the glaze has had a chance to soak in completely. Just make sure to store it properly to prevent it from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and follow the package instructions. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly. Also, be sure to check that all of your other ingredients are gluten-free, including the pineapple and vanilla extract.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

Wait, there’s no zucchini in this recipe! But if you’re making a zucchini bread, you generally don’t need to peel the zucchini, especially if it’s young and tender. The peel adds a nice bit of texture and nutrients. If the zucchini is older and the skin is tough, you can peel it if you prefer.

Can I make this as muffins instead?

Absolutely! Fill muffin liners about 2/3 full and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly depending on your oven. Once the muffins are cooled, poke holes in them with a toothpick and drizzle with the pineapple glaze.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

If you want to reduce the sweetness, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the glaze. You can also use a sugar substitute, such as stevia or erythritol. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for the correct conversion ratio.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

If you’re not a fan of the pineapple glaze, you can try using a simple powdered sugar glaze instead. Just mix powdered sugar with a little milk or water until you reach your desired consistency. You can also dust the cake with powdered sugar for a more subtle sweetness.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my super simple, incredibly delicious Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake recipe. This is a cake that always disappears in minutes at my house, and I have a feeling it will at yours too. It’s the perfect combination of moist, sweet, and tangy, and it’s so easy to make that anyone can do it. If you’re looking for a cake that’s guaranteed to impress, this is it!

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other cake recipes. And if you try this Pineapple Glazed Poke Cake, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know. Happy baking!