Description
Ever dreamed of a dessert that captures the vibrant, sunny flavors of Hawaii? Hawaiian Wedding Cake is a tropical delight, layering a moist yellow cake with juicy pineapple, creamy pudding frosting, and crunchy coconut, walnuts, and maraschino cherries
Ingredients
Hawaiian Wedding Cake uses a mix of store-bought and fresh ingredients for its tropical flair. Here’s what you’ll need for 14 servings:
- 1 (15.25-ounce) package yellow cake mix: The moist, fluffy base (plus ingredients listed on the box, typically eggs, oil, and water).
- 2 (20-ounce) cans crushed pineapple, drained: Adds juicy, tropical sweetness.
- 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix: Forms the creamy frosting base.
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese: Adds richness and tang to the frosting.
- 1 (8-ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed: Lightens the frosting for a fluffy texture.
- ½ cup flaked coconut: Provides a tropical, chewy topping.
- ½ cup chopped walnuts: Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
- ½ (10-ounce) jar maraschino cherries: Brings a pop of color and sweetness.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Crushed Pineapple: Infuses the cake with tropical juiciness and natural sweetness.
- Pudding Mix and Cream Cheese: Create a rich, creamy frosting with a tangy balance.
- Coconut and Walnuts: Add texture and nutty, tropical notes.
- Maraschino Cherries: Provide a vibrant, sweet garnish that screams celebration.
Substitutions and Variations
- Cake Mix: Use white or pineapple-flavored cake mix for a twist, following package instructions.
- Pineapple: Use fresh crushed pineapple (drained) or pineapple tidbits for a chunkier texture.
- Pudding Mix: Swap vanilla for coconut or banana pudding mix for extra tropical flavor.
- Cream Cheese: Use light cream cheese for a less rich frosting, or mascarpone for a creamier option.
- Whipped Topping: Make your own whipped cream (whip 1 cup heavy cream with 2 tablespoons sugar) or use a dairy-free whipped topping.
- Vegan Option: Use a vegan cake mix (with plant-based substitutes for eggs and oil), vegan cream cheese, dairy-free whipped topping, and ensure cherries are vegan-friendly.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and verify pudding mix is gluten-free.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather and Prep
- Gather 1 (15.25-ounce) yellow cake mix, 2 (20-ounce) cans crushed pineapple, 1 (3.4-ounce) instant vanilla pudding mix, 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, 1 (8-ounce) container frozen whipped topping, ½ cup flaked coconut, ½ cup chopped walnuts, and ½ (10-ounce) jar maraschino cherries.
- Drain the crushed pineapple well, pressing out excess juice to avoid a soggy cake.
- Thaw the whipped topping in the refrigerator if frozen.
Tip: Use a fine-mesh strainer to drain pineapple thoroughly for the best cake texture.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Prepare and bake the yellow cake mix according to package directions in a 10×15-inch baking pan (typically 350°F for 25-30 minutes, using eggs, oil, and water as specified).
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Tip: Test doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean.
Step 3: Add the Pineapple Layer
- Spread the drained crushed pineapple evenly over the cooled cake, creating a juicy, tropical layer.
Tip: Ensure the cake is fully cooled to prevent the pineapple from sinking or making the cake soggy.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
- Prepare the instant vanilla pudding mix according to package directions (typically mixing with 2 cups cold milk) and set aside to thicken, about 5 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, beat 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually mix in the prepared pudding until well combined.
- Fold in 1 (8-ounce) container thawed whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.
Tip: Use a spatula to gently fold in the whipped topping to maintain its airy texture.
Step 5: Frost and Decorate
- Spread the pudding-cream cheese frosting evenly over the pineapple layer, covering the cake completely.
- Sprinkle ½ cup flaked coconut and ½ cup chopped walnuts evenly over the frosting.
- Dot the top with maraschino cherries, either whole or halved, for a colorful garnish.
Tip: Arrange cherries in a pattern (like rows or clusters) for a festive, polished look.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to set the frosting and meld the flavors.
- Slice into 14 pieces and serve chilled.
Tip: Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for neat slices.