Introduction & Inspiration
This Dole Whip Cupcakes recipe is a delicious and surprisingly easy way to capture the iconic flavor of the Dole Whip, a beloved pineapple soft-serve treat found at Disney parks, in a fun and portable cupcake form. I’ve always been a huge fan of the Dole Whip – its creamy, tangy, and intensely pineapple flavor is incredibly refreshing.
The inspiration came from a desire to recreate that magical Dole Whip experience at home, in a way that could be enjoyed year-round, regardless of whether you’re near a Disney park. I wanted a cupcake that was moist, flavorful, and topped with a frosting that perfectly mimicked the texture and taste of the classic Dole Whip.
The combination of a pineapple-infused yellow cake base and a light, fluffy pineapple buttercream frosting creates a truly unforgettable cupcake that’s sure to transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite.
I’m excited to share this recipe because these cupcakes are always a hit. They’re perfect for summer parties, birthdays, or any time you’re craving a taste of sunshine and pineapple goodness. They’re also a great way to bring a little bit of Disney magic into your own kitchen.
Nostalgic Appeal
For many, the Dole Whip is more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of Disney vacations, warm weather, and happy memories. It’s a treat that’s often associated with a sense of fun, excitement, and escape.
These Dole Whip Cupcakes tap into that nostalgia, offering a homemade version of the iconic treat that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere. They’re a reminder of those magical Disney moments and a way to bring a little bit of that vacation feeling into your everyday life.
The bright yellow color and the pineapple flavor also evoke feelings of summer and tropical getaways, adding to the nostalgic appeal. It’s a recipe that’s both comforting and exciting, a perfect way to relive those fond memories while also creating new ones.
And that’s the beauty of these cupcakes – they combine the familiar flavors of a beloved Disney treat with the comfort of a homemade cupcake, creating a dessert that’s both nostalgic and incredibly delicious.
Homemade Focus
I am a strong believer in the power of homemade. These cupcakes are perfect for parties!
Flavor Goal
Pineapple, pineapple and more pineapple!
Ingredient Insights
Yellow cake mix, crushed pineapple with juice, vegetable oil, eggs, butter, powdered sugar, pineapple juice, pure vanilla extract, small pineapple wedges.
Essential Equipment
Two cupcake pans, cupcake liners, large bowl, hand mixer, pastry bag with a large star tip (optional).
List of Ingredients with Measurements
For the cupcakes
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup crushed pineapple with juice
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
For the frosting
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, divided
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
- Small pineapple wedges, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 325° and line two cupcake pans with cupcake liners.
- Make Cupcake Batter: In a large bowl using a hand mixer, mix cake mix with crushed pineapple, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat at medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Bake
- Cool
- Frost

Troubleshooting
*Cupcakes sinking in the middle: *Frosting too thick or too thin:
Baking.
Tips and Variations
- Add Coconut:
- Use Fresh Pineapple:
- Make a Pineapple Filling:
Customize
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Perfect for summer.
Nutritional Information
Enjoy
PrintDole Whip Cupcakes
This Dole Whip Cupcakes recipe is a delicious and surprisingly easy way to capture the iconic flavor of the Dole Whip, a beloved pineapple soft-serve treat found at Disney parks, in a fun and portable cupcake form
Ingredients
For the cupcakes
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup crushed pineapple with juice
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
For the frosting
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, divided
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
- Small pineapple wedges, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 325° and line two cupcake pans with cupcake liners.
- Make Cupcake Batter: In a large bowl using a hand mixer, mix cake mix with crushed pineapple, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat at medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Bake
- Cool
- Frost
Recipe Summary and Q&A
Delicious and tropical cupcakes.
Q: Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time? A: Yes!
Q: Can I freeze the unfrosted cupcakes? A: yes.
Q: Can I use a different type of frosting? A: Of course.