Hawaiian Poke Cake

Hawaiian Poke Cake is a delightful tropical treat that perfectly combines fluffy yellow cake with the vibrant flavors of pineapple and coconut. This easy-to-make dessert is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it an excellent choice for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or any celebration. With its moist texture and creamy topping, every slice of Hawaiian Poke Cake transports you straight to paradise.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Hawaiian Poke Cake can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Tropical Flavors: The combination of pineapple and coconut creates a refreshing taste that delights everyone.
• Versatile Dessert: Suitable for various occasions, from summer parties to potlucks, this cake is sure to impress your guests.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Each slice offers a burst of flavor that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe by adding different fruits or nuts for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Hawaiian Poke Cake, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9×13 inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and provides the perfect size for this cake.
• Mixing Bowls: Using separate bowls helps you mix ingredients properly without any mess.
• Electric Mixer: An electric mixer makes it easier to achieve a light and fluffy cake batter quickly.

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

In a mixing bowl, prepare the yellow cake mix according to package instructions. Once mixed, pour the batter into your prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool slightly before poking holes throughout the top using a fork or skewer.

Step 4: Add Pineapple and Coconut Mixture

In another bowl, mix together 1 cup pineapple juice and 1 cup full-fat 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 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut on top, allowing it to adhere nicely.

Step 6: Finish with Whipped Topping

Spread 1 cup whipped topping generously over the entire surface of the cake. Garnish with 1 cup pineapple chunks and sprinkle ¼ cup maraschino cherries on top for a colorful finish.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Poke Cake!

How to Serve Hawaiian Poke Cake

Hawaiian Poke Cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Serving it right can enhance its appeal and make your gatherings even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Individual Portions

• Use small cups or jars to serve individual slices, allowing guests to enjoy their own personal servings.
• Top each cup with a cherry and a sprinkle of coconut for added flair.

Tropical Fruit Salad

• Pair the cake with a fresh tropical fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Include fruits like mango, kiwi, and banana to complement the cake’s flavors.

Ice Cream Scoop

• Serve slices of Hawaiian Poke Cake with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream on the side.
• The cold ice cream will enhance the creamy topping and add richness.

Whipped Cream Dollop

• Add an extra dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice before serving.
• This adds a light and fluffy texture that pairs beautifully with the cake.

Toasted Coconut Garnish

• For an added crunch, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the whipped topping.
• This gives a delightful texture and enhances the coconut flavor.

Maraschino Cherry Surprise

• Place an extra maraschino cherry on top of each slice right before serving.
• This adds color and sweetness that brighten up the presentation.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Poke Cake

To ensure your Hawaiian Poke Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffiness in your cake.
• Poke evenly: When poking holes in the cooled cake, use a fork to create evenly spaced holes so that the liquid absorbs uniformly.
• Let it chill: After adding the toppings, refrigerate your cake for at least an hour before serving for improved flavors.
• Experiment with flavors: Try substituting pineapple with mango for a fun twist or add crushed macadamia nuts for extra crunch.
• Avoid overbaking: Keep an eye on your cake while it bakes; it should be golden brown but still moist inside.
• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh or high-quality canned pineapple chunks and real coconut milk for the best flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Poke Cake

Hawaiian Poke Cake pairs well with various side dishes that enhance its tropical flavors. Here are some tasty options you can consider.

1. Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Sweet grilled pineapple adds a smoky flavor that complements the cake beautifully.
2. Coconut Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with coconut milk offers a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
3. Macaroni Salad: A classic Hawaiian side, this creamy salad provides contrast to the lightness of the poke cake.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and balance out the sweetness of the dessert.
5. Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh fruits like watermelon, kiwi, and berries makes for a refreshing side.
6. Shrimp Cocktail: Chilled shrimp served with zesty cocktail sauce provides a savory touch alongside sweet desserts.
7. Tropical Smoothies: Serve refreshing smoothies made from tropical fruits as a drink pairing with your dessert.
8. Cheesy Garlic Bread: A savory option that can provide contrast to sweet cakes; great if you’re hosting a larger meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Hawaiian Poke Cake is simple, but avoiding a few common mistakes can ensure your dessert turns out perfect every time.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined for a light texture.
• Skipping the cooling stage: Not letting the cake cool before poking holes can result in a soggy base. Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect the cake’s rise and texture. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Neglecting to drain pineapple chunks: Excess moisture from undrained pineapple can make the cake too wet. Always drain canned pineapple thoroughly.
• Not covering the cake properly: Leaving it exposed in the fridge can dry out your Hawaiian Poke Cake. Cover it with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Hawaiian Poke Cake in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 3 days.
• If you have leftover whipped topping, store it separately to maintain its texture.

Freezing Hawaiian Poke Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• You can freeze Hawaiian Poke Cake for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Hawaiian Poke Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and warm for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Cover and warm each slice for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hawaiian Poke Cake?

Hawaiian Poke Cake is a fluffy yellow cake infused with pineapple juice and coconut milk, topped with whipped cream and garnished with fruit. It’s a tropical treat that’s easy to make.

Can I customize my Hawaiian Poke Cake?

Absolutely! You can add crushed macadamia nuts for crunch or substitute mango for pineapple for a unique twist on flavors.

How long does Hawaiian Poke Cake last in the fridge?

When stored correctly, your Hawaiian Poke Cake will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Can I make Hawaiian Poke Cake ahead of time?

Yes, making this cake one day ahead enhances its flavors as they meld together beautifully while chilling overnight.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Poke Cake is not only visually stunning but also bursting with tropical flavors that delight any palate. It’s versatile enough for summer BBQs or family gatherings, and you can easily customize it with different fruits or toppings. Give this recipe a try, and let the sunshine of Hawaii brighten your dessert table!

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Hawaiian Poke Cake

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Hawaiian Poke Cake, a light and fluffy dessert that brings the taste of the tropics right to your table. This easy-to-make cake combines moist yellow cake infused with sweet pineapple juice and creamy coconut milk, topped with a generous layer of whipped cream and sprinkled with shredded coconut. Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or simply as an everyday treat, this cake is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant appearance and refreshing taste. With every slice, you’ll be transported to a sunny paradise, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, prepare the yellow cake mix according to package instructions, then pour the batter into the prepared dish.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before poking holes throughout the top with a fork.
4. In another bowl, combine pineapple juice and coconut milk; pour evenly over the cooled cake.
5. Sprinkle shredded coconut over the moist cake surface.
6. Spread whipped topping over the entire cake. Garnish with pineapple chunks and maraschino cherries.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 330
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 20mg