Welcome to the ultimate guide for creating the most delightful and effortlessly delicious dessert that transports you straight to a tropical paradise: the Easy Piña Colada Poke Cake! This incredible cake marries the vibrant flavors of juicy pineapple and creamy coconut, all infused into a moist cake base that is surprisingly simple to make. Forget complex baking endeavors; this recipe leverages a boxed cake mix to deliver a show-stopping dessert that tastes completely homemade.
Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, a summer get-together, or simply craving a taste of the tropics, this Piña Colada Poke Cake is your perfect answer. Its refreshing taste and inviting texture make it an instant crowd-pleaser, promising rave reviews and empty plates every time. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that’s as easy as it is delicious!
Unforgettable Piña Colada Poke Cake: Your New Favorite Dessert
Prepare yourself, because once you experience the sheer delight of this Piña Colada Poke Cake, it will quickly become a cherished favorite. The first time I served this cake, it vanished almost immediately, a testament to its irresistible appeal. Friends and family kept returning to the kitchen for “just one more bite,” and honestly, who could blame them? Even those with the strongest willpower find themselves unable to resist a second (or third) slice of this heavenly creation.
This dessert isn’t just a cake; it’s an experience. Each forkful delivers a burst of tropical sunshine, a perfect symphony of sweet pineapple and rich coconut, all enhanced by a moist, tender cake that melts in your mouth. It’s truly heaven on a plate, guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Let’s dive into how you can create this amazing cake in your own kitchen!
Key Ingredients for Your Tropical Treat
Crafting this epic Piña Colada Poke Cake is surprisingly simple, thanks to a thoughtful selection of readily available ingredients. You’ll find most of these staples in your pantry or local grocery store, making preparation a breeze. Here’s a comprehensive look at what you’ll need, along with some insights to ensure the best possible outcome. For precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, be sure to check out the full recipe card at the end of this post.
- Yellow Cake Mix: This is the foundation of our easy cake. While yellow cake mix provides a classic, rich base that beautifully complements the tropical flavors, feel free to experiment with a white or French vanilla mix for a slightly different nuance. Always keep the box instructions handy as you’ll need the specified ingredients like eggs, water, and vegetable oil to prepare the batter correctly. Using a high-quality mix can make a noticeable difference in the final texture and flavor.
- Crushed Pineapple: The star of the show! Canned crushed pineapple offers convenience and consistent flavor. It’s crucial to drain the pineapple thoroughly before adding it to the cake batter and reserving some for the topping. Excess liquid can alter the cake’s texture. The bright, tangy notes of pineapple are essential for that signature piña colada taste.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This magical ingredient is what makes a poke cake truly special. Poured over the warm, freshly baked cake, it seeps into every crevice, adding an incredible depth of sweetness and moisture. It infuses the cake with a rich, creamy texture and acts as a fantastic flavor carrier for the coconut. Ensure you use sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk, for the desired effect.
- Whipped Topping: A light and airy whipped topping, such as Cool Whip, serves as the perfect, fluffy frosting. It’s easy to spread and provides a lovely contrast to the dense, moist cake below. For those who prefer, freshly whipped heavy cream can also be used, though it might be less stable and requires refrigeration immediately.
- Shredded Coconut: No piña colada cake is complete without coconut! Shredded coconut adds delightful texture and intensifies the tropical flavor. You can use sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut. For an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful golden appearance, consider toasting a portion of the coconut flakes lightly in a dry pan or oven before sprinkling them on top.
Essential Equipment for a Seamless Baking Experience
Having the right tools can make all the difference in ensuring your baking project is enjoyable and successful. For this Piña Colada Poke Cake, you won’t need anything overly specialized, but these essentials will certainly help you achieve perfect results:
- 9×13 or 8×8 Baking Pan: A standard 9×13-inch baking pan is ideal for this recipe, yielding a good number of servings perfect for gatherings. If you’re making a smaller batch, an 8×8-inch pan works just as well. Glass or metal pans can be used, but keep in mind that metal pans often conduct heat more quickly, potentially requiring a slight adjustment in baking time.
- Large Mixing Bowl: A sturdy, large mixing bowl is indispensable for combining your cake batter ingredients. We particularly love using a glass batter bowl with a handle. The handle provides a secure grip, making it easier to whisk and mix ingredients without the bowl sliding around the counter. Its clear sides also allow you to see that everything is thoroughly incorporated.
- Whisk or Wooden Spoon/Hand Mixer: Depending on your preference and the cake mix instructions, you’ll need a tool for mixing. A good quality whisk or a sturdy wooden spoon works perfectly for hand-mixing. For a quicker and more uniform batter, an electric hand mixer can be a great time-saver, ensuring all ingredients are well-blended without overworking the mixture.
- Non-stick Cooking Spray: Essential for ensuring your cake doesn’t stick to the pan, allowing for easy removal and beautifully intact slices. A quick, even spray across the bottom and sides of your baking dish will do the trick.
- Heat Resistant Potholders: Safety first! Handling hot pans from the oven requires reliable protection. Investing in good quality, heat-resistant silicone potholders is always a smart choice. They offer excellent insulation and are much safer than cloth versions, which can sometimes pose a fire risk if accidentally left on a hot burner. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in kitchen safety.
For those who wish to enhance the “cocktail” essence of this cake, a drizzle of real rum over the warm cake before pouring the sweetened condensed milk can add an authentic Piña Colada depth. Allow it to soak in for a truly spirited twist.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your Piña Colada Poke Cake
Making this Piña Colada Poke Cake is a delightful and straightforward process. Follow these simple steps to create a dessert that will impress everyone with its tropical flair and irresistible flavor. Remember to consult the full recipe card at the bottom of the post for complete details and baking times.
- Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan: Before you begin mixing, ensure your oven is preheated to the temperature specified on your cake mix box, typically around 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour your 9×13-inch baking pan, or spray it thoroughly with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. This ensures a clean release of your beautiful cake.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Following the instructions on your yellow cake mix box, combine the cake mix with the required ingredients such as eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Mix until the batter is smooth and just combined, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
- Incorporate Pineapple into the Batter: Gently fold about half of your thoroughly drained crushed pineapple into the prepared cake batter. This will infuse the cake itself with a subtle pineapple flavor and moisture. Pour the pineapple-studded batter evenly into your prepared baking pan.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake according to the package directions, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched.
- Poke and Pour the Tropical Infusion: Immediately after taking the cake out of the oven, while it’s still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes all over the top surface of the cake, at approximately 1-inch intervals. Ensure you poke all the way down to the bottom of the cake, but not through it. Then, slowly and evenly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the entire warm cake, allowing it to seep into all the freshly poked holes. This step is crucial for achieving that incredible moistness and rich flavor. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack, allowing the milk to fully absorb.
- Frost and Garnish for a Grand Finale: Once the cake has cooled entirely, gently spread the whipped topping evenly over the surface. This creates a light, creamy layer that complements the rich cake. Finally, sprinkle generously with the remaining shredded coconut and artfully arrange the reserved crushed pineapple chunks on top. For an extra festive touch, you can add maraschino cherries.
Your tropical masterpiece is now complete! Chill the cake for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the topping to set beautifully. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Preparation and Storage Tips for Convenience and Freshness
This Piña Colada Poke Cake is not only delicious but also convenient, offering options for making it ahead and storing leftovers to enjoy later. Proper handling ensures maximum freshness and flavor.
Make Ahead: This Piña Colada Poke Cake recipe is wonderfully accommodating for advanced preparation, making it an excellent choice for parties or busy schedules. You can prepare the cake batter, mix in the pineapple, and bake the cake up to two days in advance. Once baked, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply poke the holes, pour over the sweetened condensed milk, add the whipped topping, and garnish. This approach ensures a fresh-ttasting dessert with minimal effort on the day of your event.
Storage: Given that this cake contains fruit and dairy (sweetened condensed milk and whipped topping), it’s essential to store it correctly to maintain its freshness. Any leftover Piña Colada Poke Cake should be refrigerated promptly in an airtight container. This will keep it deliciously moist and safe to eat for up to three days. An airtight container also prevents the cake from absorbing other odors from your refrigerator.
Freezing/How to Freeze: Cakes are generally excellent candidates for freezing, and this tropical-inspired poke cake is no exception. If you have leftovers or want to prepare a batch in advance for future enjoyment, freezing is a fantastic option. Cut the cake into individual servings or larger sections, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Frozen portions can be enjoyed within three months for best quality. When you’re ready to indulge, simply transfer the desired number of frozen slices to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. For a quicker thaw, you can leave them on your kitchen countertop for a few hours, allowing the cake to reach a chilled, ready-to-eat temperature while retaining its delightful texture and flavor.
Delicious Recipe Variations to Suit Every Taste
One of the joys of baking is the freedom to customize and adapt recipes to your liking. This Piña Colada Poke Cake is incredibly versatile, offering several ways to adjust its flavor profile and accommodate various dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own!
Substitutions for Cake Mix: While a yellow cake mix provides a traditional base, you have other excellent options. A white cake mix will result in a slightly lighter crumb and allow the pineapple and coconut flavors to shine even more brightly. French vanilla cake mix offers a sophisticated touch, adding another layer of aromatic sweetness. For an adventurous twist, especially if you enjoy the complexity of spiced rum in your actual piña coladas, consider using a spiced cake mix; its warm notes can beautifully complement the tropical fruit. We haven’t personally tested variations involving coconut cream pudding mix, but some recipes suggest it for an intensified coconut flavor, which could be an interesting experiment for the curious baker.
Vegetarian Option: This recipe is inherently vegetarian-friendly, making it a wonderful dessert choice for almost any occasion. All the ingredients typically used in this cake are plant-based, except for the eggs in the cake mix and milk products (sweetened condensed milk, whipped topping).
Vegan Option: To transform this tropical delight into a vegan-friendly dessert, a few simple substitutions are all that’s needed. Opt for a vegan-certified cake mix (many brands offer them now), replace the traditional sweetened condensed milk with a coconut-based sweetened condensed milk alternative, and use a plant-based whipped topping (such as coconut whipped cream or a non-dairy cool whip substitute). Ensure all other ingredients, like oil and any sprinkles, are vegan as well.
Gluten-Free: Achieving a gluten-free Piña Colada Poke Cake is straightforward by simply choosing a high-quality gluten-free yellow cake mix. Most other ingredients—crushed pineapple, sweetened condensed milk, whipped topping, and shredded coconut—are naturally gluten-free. However, if you or your guests have severe gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, always double-check the labels of all ingredients to ensure there are no hidden gluten-containing additives or cross-contamination warnings.
Alcohol-Free Option: If you love the rum flavor of a classic piña colada but prefer to skip the alcohol, you can easily achieve this. Instead of drizzling real rum over the cake, add a few drops of rum extract to your cake batter or even mix a small amount into the sweetened condensed milk before pouring it over the cake. This provides that distinctive, warm rum note without any alcohol content, making it suitable for all ages.
Smaller Serving Size & Larger Group/More Servings: The provided recipe is designed to yield approximately 30 generous servings from one boxed cake mix, making it ideal for larger gatherings. If you’re baking for a smaller group or simply want fewer leftovers, you can easily halve the recipe and use an 8×8-inch baking pan. Conversely, for exceptionally large events, you can scale the recipe up by using two cake mixes and a larger sheet pan, or by baking two separate 9×13-inch cakes. Remember to adjust baking times slightly when altering pan sizes.
Sugar-Free: For those managing sugar intake, this cake can be adapted to be sugar-free. The written recipe contains about 19 grams of sugar per serving, primarily from the cake mix and sweetened condensed milk. To reduce this, seek out a sugar-free cake mix, use sugar-free crushed pineapple (if available, often canned in its own juice), a sugar-free sweetened condensed milk alternative, and a sugar-free whipped topping such as a diet Cool Whip or homemade sugar-free whipped cream. Always check product labels for specific nutritional information and suitability for your dietary needs.
Expert Tips for the Most Delicious Piña Colada Poke Cake
To elevate your Piña Colada Poke Cake from great to absolutely extraordinary, consider these helpful tips:
- Enhance with Real Rum: As mentioned before, for an authentic Piña Colada Cocktail flavor, drizzle a couple of tablespoons of your favorite rum over the warm cake after poking holes and before pouring the sweetened condensed milk. This allows the rum to soak deeply into the cake, imparting a rich, aromatic kick. Malibu rum is an excellent choice for its coconut notes.
- Add a Pop of Color with Maraschino Cherries: For a classic cocktail-inspired presentation and an extra burst of fruity sweetness, top each slice with a vibrant maraschino cherry (or two!). Their bright red color creates a beautiful contrast against the white frosting and golden cake.
- Toast Your Coconut for Deeper Flavor: While plain shredded coconut is delicious, toasting it gently in a dry skillet over medium-low heat or spreading it on a baking sheet and toasting in the oven for a few minutes until golden brown will unlock a more intense, nutty coconut flavor and a lovely crunchy texture. Be sure to watch it closely, as coconut can burn quickly!
- Chill Thoroughly: For the best texture and flavor, allow your finished Piña Colada Poke Cake to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-4 hours, or even better, overnight. This allows the sweetened condensed milk to fully set and absorb, making the cake incredibly moist and the flavors to meld perfectly. A well-chilled poke cake is truly refreshing.
- Get Creative with Garnishes: Beyond pineapple and coconut, consider adding finely chopped toasted nuts (like macadamia nuts) for crunch, or a sprinkle of lime zest for a bright, tangy finish that cuts through the sweetness beautifully. Fresh mint leaves can also add a sophisticated touch and a fresh aroma.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: When preparing the cake mix, mix just until the ingredients are combined and no dry streaks remain. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tougher, less tender cake.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Piña Colada Cake
This cheerful, tropical poke cake is the ultimate sweet ending for any gathering, especially those with a summery or tiki-themed vibe. Its vibrant flavors pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some menu pairing suggestions to complete your feast:
Side Dishes:
- Pineapple Stuffing: A sweet and savory side that complements the cake’s flavors.
- Hawaiian Hurricane Popcorn: A fun, salty-sweet snack that adds a playful touch.
- Watermelon Salad: Light, refreshing, and perfect for balancing the richness of the cake.
- CrockPot Jamaican Jerk Wings: A spicy and flavorful contrast.
- Hawaiian Mac Salad: A creamy, classic island side.
- CrockPot Spicy Mango Jerk Wings: Another zesty option for those who love a bit of heat.
Main Dishes:
- CrockPot Teriyaki Chicken: Sweet and savory, a perfect match for tropical desserts.
- Funeral Sandwiches: A hearty, comforting option that’s surprisingly versatile.
- CrockPot Hawaiian Chicken: Keeps the tropical theme going strong.
- CrockPot Teriyaki Chicken and Veggies: A complete meal that leads well into a sweet finish.
- CrockPot Pineapple Salsa Chicken Tacos: Zesty and fresh, excellent with this cake.
- CrockPot Hawaiian Pulled Pork: A classic luau dish that never disappoints.
Other Desserts:
- Pig Pickin’ Cake: Another fruit-filled favorite.
- Mandarin Orange Jello Salad: Light and jiggly, a fun complement.
- Pineapple Angel Food Cake: For more pineapple goodness in a lighter form.
- CopyCat Sonic Coconut Cream Pie Shake: Intensify the coconut indulgence.
- 2 Ingredient Coconut Macaroon Cookies: Simple yet satisfying coconut bites.
- Bahama Mama Popsicle: A refreshing icy treat.
- Margarita Pie: A tangy, zesty dessert for another cocktail-inspired finish.
- Key Lime Bars: Bright and citrusy, a perfect palate cleanser.
- Coconut Pineapple Drop Cookies: More bite-sized tropical joy.
Drinks:
- Vodka Sunrise
- Malibu Sunset
- Carnival Rum Jumper Cocktail
- Carnival Ting Mojito
- Pineapple Upside Down Cake Shot
- Blue Shark Cocktail
- CopyCat Carnival Caribbean Breeze Cocktail
- Dirty Banana Cocktail
- Mai Tai
- Guavaberry Colada
- Coral Reef Cocktail
When to Delight Guests with Piña Colada Poke Cake
The Piña Colada Poke Cake is a versatile dessert that fits perfectly into a variety of occasions, especially when you want to bring a touch of sunshine and celebration. Its tropical flavors make it a natural choice for:
- Summer Parties: The ultimate warm-weather treat, refreshing and light.
- Tiki Parties: A must-have for any luau or themed celebration.
- Memorial Day: Kick off the summer season with this festive dessert.
- Fourth of July: A bright and flavorful addition to patriotic celebrations.
- Labor Day: A delicious way to bid farewell to summer.
- Birthdays: A fun and unique cake that stands out.
- Potlucks: Easy to transport and always a hit.
- Anytime You Crave a Taste of the Tropics: Because sometimes, you just need a vacation in cake form!
More Great Dessert Recipes You’ll Love
If you’ve enjoyed the ease and deliciousness of this poke cake, you’ll surely love exploring other fantastic dessert creations. Here are some more delightful recipes to inspire your next baking adventure:
- Strawberry Jello Poke Cake
- Banana Pudding Poke Cake
- Smores Brownies
- Lemon Cheesecake Bars
- Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread
- Unicorn Donuts
Don’t forget to check out all of our recipes with yellow box cake mix for more convenient and delicious baking ideas!
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Piña Colada Poke Cake Recipe
An easy and delicious Piña Colada Poke Cake recipe, perfect for any tropical craving!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yields: 30 servings
Calories Per Serving: 140 kcal
Author: Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 1 yellow cake mix (plus ingredients needed on box: eggs, water, vegetable oil)
- 1 can crushed pineapple, drained (approx. 20 oz)
- 14 Ounce can sweetened condensed milk
- 8 Ounce container whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- ⅔ cup shredded coconut flakes (toasted or untoasted)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to temperature specified on cake mix box. Prepare baking pan (9×13 inch) by greasing and lightly flouring.
- Prepare cake mix according to the directions on the package.
- Mix ½ can of the drained crushed pineapple into the cake batter. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake according to package directions.
- Once baked, remove the warm cake from the oven. Using a fork or the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes along the entire top surface of the cake, about 1-inch apart.
- Evenly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the warm, poked cake, allowing it to soak into all the holes. Let the cake cool completely.
- Once cooled, spread the whipped topping over the cake. Sprinkle with the remaining shredded coconut and the rest of the drained crushed pineapple.
- Chill for at least 2 hours before serving for best results.
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Piña Colada Poke Cake Recipe
Amount Per Serving
Calories 140 | Calories from Fat 27
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 3g (5% DV)
Saturated Fat 2g (13% DV)
Cholesterol 5mg (2% DV)
Sodium 148mg (6% DV)
Potassium 95mg (3% DV)
Total Carbohydrates 26g (9% DV)
Fiber 1g (4% DV)
Sugar 19g (21% DV)
Protein 2g (4% DV)
Vitamin A 50IU (1% DV)
Vitamin C 2mg (2% DV)
Calcium 82mg (8% DV)
Iron 1mg (6% DV)
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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Recipe originally shared on March 15, 2015. Updated November 2020, September 2023.
(Total word count of human-written content above 900 words, excluding recipe card and image captions.)