Hawaiian Poke Cake

Hawaiian Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that brings the tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut to your table. This easy recipe is perfect for summer gatherings, birthdays, or any celebration where you want to impress your guests. With its fluffy texture and vibrant toppings, Hawaiian Poke Cake stands out as a refreshing treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Hawaiian Poke Cake requires minimal effort with simple steps, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of pineapple juice and coconut milk creates a moist cake bursting with tropical goodness.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a family gathering, this cake is always a hit at celebrations.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the flavors by adding fruits like mango or incorporating nuts for extra crunch.
• Visually Appealing: The bright colors from the toppings and garnishes make this cake an eye-catching centerpiece on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will help you create this delicious Hawaiian Poke Cake effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking dish: This size is ideal for even baking and provides enough surface area for poking holes in the cake.
• Whisk or electric mixer: Helps achieve a smooth batter quickly, ensuring even mixing of ingredients for a light texture.
• Spatula: Perfect for spreading whipped topping evenly across the cake, creating an appealing finish.

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 thoroughly to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package instructions. Pour the batter into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before poking holes throughout the top using a fork.

Step 4: Add Pineapple Juice Mixture

In a bowl, mix together the pineapple juice and coconut milk. Pour this mixture evenly over the cooled cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.

Step 5: Sprinkle Coconut

While the cake is still moist, sprinkle sweetened shredded coconut generously over the top, ensuring even coverage.

Step 6: Top with Whipped Cream and Garnish

Spread whipped topping generously over the entire surface of the cake. Finally, garnish with pineapple chunks and maraschino cherries for an attractive finish.

Enjoy every slice of this delightful Hawaiian Poke Cake!

How to Serve Hawaiian Poke Cake

Hawaiian Poke Cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it at home, here are some creative suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Tropical fruits: Serve slices with fresh mango, kiwi, or strawberries for an extra burst of flavor.
• Coconut flakes: Add more shredded coconut on top for added texture and visual appeal.

As a Parfait

• Layered dessert: Create individual parfaits by layering Hawaiian Poke Cake with whipped topping and diced pineapple in clear cups.
• Add granola: For a crunchy contrast, sprinkle granola between the layers.

Accompanied by Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly, balancing the sweetness of the cake.
• Coconut sorbet: For a tropical twist, serve with coconut sorbet for a refreshing palate cleanse.

Garnished with Nuts

• Crushed macadamia nuts: Sprinkle crushed macadamia nuts on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Toasted almonds: Toasted almonds also make a great topping that complements the flavors of the cake.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Poke Cake

To achieve the best version of Hawaiian Poke Cake, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your recipe.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures better mixing and helps create a fluffy cake.
• Poke holes evenly: Make sure to poke holes uniformly across the cake for even absorption of the juice mixture.
• Let it chill: After adding toppings, let the cake chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving for optimal flavor melding.
• Adjust sweetness levels: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of sugar in the whipped topping slightly.
• Experiment with fruits: Try substituting pineapple chunks with diced mango or peaches for a fresh twist on flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Poke Cake

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

1. Grilled Veggies: A mix of seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection adds a smoky flavor that balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Tropical Salad: A light salad featuring mixed greens, citrus segments, and a honey-lime dressing brings freshness to your table.
3. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with coconut milk gives an aromatic side that complements tropical flavors well.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots provides a crunchy contrast to the soft cake.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn seasoned lightly enhances any outdoor gathering alongside this treat.
6. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans offer a hearty side that pairs nicely with the lighter dessert option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Hawaiian Poke Cake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Using cold ingredients can result in uneven mixing. Always ensure your ingredients, especially the coconut milk, are at room temperature for optimal texture.
• Not Poking Enough Holes: If you don’t poke enough holes in the cake, the juices won’t absorb properly. Make sure to poke holes across the entire surface to allow maximum flavor infusion.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Pouring the juice mix on a hot cake can lead to sogginess. Let the cake cool slightly before adding liquids for better absorption.
• Overloading with Toppings: While toppings are delicious, adding too many can overwhelm the cake’s flavors. Stick to a few key toppings like whipped cream and cherries for balance.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake. Check it a few minutes before the recommended time to prevent overbaking.
• Forgetting to Drain Pineapple: Using undrained pineapple chunks can make your cake too wet. Always drain canned fruits well before using them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Hawaiian Poke Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Hawaiian Poke Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hawaiian Poke Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake in for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes until warm and moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hawaiian Poke Cake.

What is Hawaiian Poke Cake?

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

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 delicious cake.

How long does it take to make Hawaiian Poke Cake?

This recipe takes approximately 45 minutes from start to finish, including prep and baking time.

How should I serve Hawaiian Poke Cake?

Serve it chilled or at room temperature as a delightful dessert at parties or family gatherings.

Can I customize my Hawaiian Poke Cake?

Absolutely! Feel free to add crushed macadamia nuts or use different flavored whipped toppings for variety.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Poke Cake is not only easy to make but also brings a burst of tropical flavors that everyone will love. This versatile recipe allows you to customize it with various fruits or nuts, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy every bite!