Pineapple Juice Cake is one of those desserts that instantly fills the kitchen with a warm, tropical aroma that makes everyone curious about what is baking in the oven.
The first time I prepared this Pineapple Juice Cake, the sweet scent of pineapple and buttery glaze slowly spread through the house, and I knew it would become a recipe worth sharing. It is simple, comforting, and incredibly moist, with every bite soaked in a light pineapple glaze that melts into the cake.
What makes this Pineapple Juice Cake recipe special is how effortless it is. Using a boxed cake mix keeps the preparation quick, yet the pineapple juice completely transforms the flavor into something homemade and memorable.
The cake bakes into a golden Bundt with a soft crumb, while the glaze seeps into the small holes on top, creating a sweet and tangy finish that keeps the cake tender for days.

Key Ingredients in Pineapple Juice Cake Recipe
Whenever I make Pineapple Juice Cake, I am reminded that great flavor often comes from very simple ingredients. Each one in this recipe plays an important role in creating the cake’s moist texture and tropical taste.
- 1 (15.25-ounce) box yellow or butter cake mix* (I prefer Pillsbury for this recipe. See my note below.)
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup pineapple juice
- 4 large eggs
For the glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup pineapple juice
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Pineapple Juice Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 min
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
This Pineapple Juice Cake Recipe is a moist, tropical dessert made with yellow or butter cake mix, pineapple juice, eggs, and vegetable oil, then finished with a buttery pineapple glaze that soaks into every bite for a sweet, flavorful treat.
Ingredients
- 1 (15.25-ounce) box yellow or butter cake mix* (I prefer Pillsbury for this recipe. See my note below.)
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup pineapple juice
- 4 large eggs
For the glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup pineapple juice
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 325°F and grease and flour a 10 to 12-cup Bundt pan.
Use an electric mixer to combine the cake mix, vegetable oil, pineapple juice, and eggs in a large bowl. Beat about 2 minutes. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake is just starting to pull away from the sides. Allow the cake to start to cool in the pan while you make the glaze.
In a small sauce pan, combine the powdered sugar, pineapple juice, and butter. Cook over medium-low heat until the butter has melted, stirring frequently.
Use a skewer or toothpick to poke holes in the cake. Pour the warm glaze over the cake while it is still in the cake pan. It’s going to seem like a lot of glaze, but just keep pouring. Allow to cool for 15 to 20 more minutes, or until the cake is cool and
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 35 min
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
For a balanced meal before dessert, I often prepare something savory like One Pan Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken and Rice, which contrasts nicely with the sweetness of this cake.
How to Make Pineapple Juice Cake Step-by-Step
-Preheat your oven to 325°F and grease and flour a 10 to 12-cup Bundt pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
-In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, vegetable oil, pineapple juice, and eggs using an electric mixer. Beat the mixture for about two minutes until the batter becomes smooth and well blended.
-Pour the batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the surface.
-Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should begin to pull slightly away from the sides of the pan.
-While the cake cools slightly, prepare the glaze by combining powdered sugar, pineapple juice, and butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir until the butter melts and the mixture becomes smooth.
-Use a skewer or toothpick to poke small holes across the surface of the warm cake.
-Slowly pour the warm glaze over the cake while it is still in the pan, allowing the liquid to soak into the holes.
-Let the cake rest for 15 to 20 minutes so the glaze absorbs before carefully inverting it onto a serving platter.
When I serve this cake for dinner guests, I often pair it with a fresh side dish like Parmesan Tahini Kale Salad, which adds a bright and healthy contrast.
Pineapple Juice Cake Recipe Nutrition Facts
- Calories: about 320 per slice
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
If you enjoy simple but flavorful recipes, you might also like baking Jalapeño Cheddar Bread, which offers a completely different savory twist.
FAQs
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I use fresh pineapple juice? | Yes, fresh pineapple juice works well and adds even more natural flavor. |
| How do I store Pineapple Juice Cake? | Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days. |
| Can I freeze this cake? | Yes. Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to two months. |
| Why poke holes in the cake? | The holes allow the warm glaze to soak deep into the cake, making it extra moist. |
| Can I add pineapple chunks? | Small crushed pineapple pieces can be added for extra texture if desired. |
Conclusion
Pineapple Juice Cake is one of those recipes that proves simple ingredients can create something truly memorable. After making it several times, I always look forward to the moment the warm glaze sinks into the cake and the kitchen fills with the scent of pineapple and butter. It is an easy dessert that feels special every time it is served.
Looking for inspiration? Visit Elise Chef on Pinterest to explore beautifully curated high-fiber recipes and discover your next healthy habit.