Pineapple Juice Cake , Tropical & Easy Dessert

Growing up in a small Ohio town, I always loved simple treats—especially when they involved fresh fruit. One summer afternoon, when my granddaughter Lily asked, “Grandma, can we make something sweet with pineapple juice?” I smiled and realized we had the perfect canvas for a pineapple juice cake. That tangy-sweet juice reminded me of summer picnics and laughter, and we decided on a no-bake version that’s light, fluffy, and bursting with tropical bliss.

As we measured cups of pineapple juice, stirred in the dry cake mix, and sprinkled coconut flakes on top, Lily’s eyes lit up. Using pineapple juice instead of water not only keeps the cake moist, but amps up that juicy flavor. We both agreed—it felt like a mini vacation in every slice.

Since then, I’ve shared this pineapple juice cake at potlucks and family dinners. It’s always the first dessert to vanish. The blend of vibrant juice and easy prep makes it a crowd-pleaser. In this article, you’ll get my full recipe, step-by-step tips, FAQs about using juice in cake, and creative ideas for leftover juice—like turning it into popsicles or spritzers. We’ll include helpful links to our banana pudding bars, mango mousse, and creamy cheesecake bars sections to build kitchen flow—so you can keep exploring delicious no-bake desserts.

So let’s whisk up memories together—grab your favorite bowl, lid on the mixer, and let’s get mixing that dreamy pineapple juice cake!

Ingredients & Recipe Details — Tropical Pineapple Juice Cake

What You’ll Need

  • 2 cups of pineapple juice (100% juice, no sugar added)
  • 1 box (approx. 15.25 oz) yellow or white cake mix
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • ⅓ cup melted butter

These five ingredients come together in under 10 minutes—no oven required, just a simple bowl and stirring spoon. By substituting pineapple juice for water, the cake mix is infused with a vibrant tropical flavor.. For fun variation, sprinkle the top with extra coconut or mix in chopped macadamia nuts.

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Pineapple juice cake with coconut topping

Pineapple Juice Cake , Tropical & Easy Dessert


  • Author: rose
  • Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This no-bake pineapple juice cake is a quick, tropical dessert using just five simple ingredients. Moist, refreshing, and perfect for summer entertaining.


Ingredients

Scale

2 cups pineapple juice (100% pure)

1 box yellow or white cake mix (15.25 oz)

1 cup crushed pineapple, well-drained

1/2 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)

1/3 cup melted butter


Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cake mix and pineapple juice until smooth.

2. Stir in the crushed pineapple and melted butter.

3. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 dish or serving cups.

4. Sprinkle the top with shredded coconut.

5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.

6. Cut into squares or serve chilled.

Notes

Be sure to drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Add lime zest or top with whipped cream for variation.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: No-Bake Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 square
  • Calories: 240
  • Sugar: 19g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Step‑by‑Step Recipe

  1. Place the cake mix in a large bowl and whisk in the pineapple juice until the batter is completely smooth. Alternative: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cake mix with pineapple juice, whisking until the mixture is silky and lump-free.
  2. Stir in the drained crushed pineapple and melted butter until evenly combined.
  3. Transfer the batter to a greased 9×13 dish or individual cups if serving guests. Sprinkle coconut on top.
  4. Refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, or until firm.

Opting for a no‑bake approach speeds up the process and ensures the cake stays light.. Once firm, cut into squares or scoop out servings. You’ll love the refreshing bite—it’s easy, fun, and perfect for summer!

Mixing pineapple juice cake batter in a bowl
Stirring the batter with real pineapple chunks

See also how we built flavor in our Waffle Ice Cream Sandwich, and don’t miss the creamy bars from our Cottage Cheese Banana Bread—you’ll find inspiration for topping ideas and chilling methods that work beautifully here .

We’ll seamlessly add a table next to highlight how nutritional comparisons between pineapple juice cake and a classic cake mix show fewer

calories and less fat—perfect for mindful dessert lovers.

Tips & Variations — Pineapple Juice Cake Inspiration

Subheading: Enhancing the Pineapple Juice Cake

To make your pineapple juice cake even more memorable, try these simple tweaks. First, swap shredded coconut for chopped macadamia nuts for a tropical crunch that pairs beautifully with the juicy base.Stir a teaspoon of lime zest into the batter for a bright, refreshing flavor without adding extra steps. And if you prefer a sweeter bite, lightly drizzle warmed dulce de leche over chilled cake just before serving. This adapts well from techniques I use in my creamy cheesecakes, where a swirl makes all the difference.

Subheading: No-Bake Serving Options

You don’t need to bake this to enjoy it. After chilling the cake for two hours, you can cut it into bars, scoop it into parfait cups, or even layer it in mason jars with whipped cream and pineapple chunks. If you’re gathering for a cookout, transport individual cups—no slicing needed. Want to theme a party? Top each cup with a mint leaf and serve alongside a slice of the mango mousse dessert—it complements the juice-infused cake beautifully. These serving ideas echo the crowd-pleasing methods we explored in the banana pudding bars.

Pineapple juice cake squares with mint garnish
Serve chilled for a tropical treat everyone loves

🍍 Quick Nutrition Comparison

Cake TypeCalories (per serving)FatSugar
Classic boxed yellow cake28012 g22 g
Pineapple juice cake24010 g19 g

This comparison shows how choosing pineapple juice over water can lower overall calories and sugar, while still delivering big flavor—without extra effort.

Related Reads: When you make this pineapple juice cake, check out our Strawberry Pretzel Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches recipe for a fun layered combo. Also, the chill factor in our Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches works just as well here—see how I prepare the chilling step.

Storage, Fixes & Creative Juice Uses — Pineapple Juice Cake

Subheading: How to Store and Troubleshoot It

This pineapple juice cake keeps best in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days. It stays soft and moist without drying out. If you find the edges getting a bit firm, cover the cake with a damp cloth for 30 minutes to revive the texture. Accidentally used too much pineapple juice? If the cake turns overly wet or soggy, be sure to drain crushed pineapple thoroughly next time—pressing it between paper towels works wonders.

Subheading: Smart Uses for Leftover Pineapple Juice

Don’t toss that juice! Try these quick ideas:

  • Freeze into tropical ice cubes to flavor water, lemonade, or cocktails.
  • Make a pineapple granita by mixing the juice with a little sugar and freezing it, scraping every 30 minutes until fluffy.
  • Use as a chicken marinade by combining it with garlic, soy sauce, and fresh herbs for a sweet-savory twist.

For more recipes follow me in facebook and pinterest.

Slice of pineapple juice cake on plate with iced drink
Pineapple juice cake served with iced pineapple punch

FAQ

Can I use pineapple juice instead of water in a cake mix?

Yes! Swapping water with pineapple juice adds natural flavor and moisture. Just make sure the juice is 100% pure and not too sugary.

What are the 4 ingredients in magic cake?

Traditional magic cakes call for flour, eggs, sugar, and milk. Our pineapple version uses five ingredients but follows the same simplicity for sweet success.

Does a pineapple juice cake need to be refrigerated?

Absolutely. Since this cake is chilled to set and contains fruit juice, it must be stored in the fridge to stay fresh and food-safe.

What can I do with leftover pineapple juice?

Turn it into fruity ice cubes, refreshing granita, or a tenderizing marinade—three smart and tasty ways to use every last drop.