Summer calls for a tropical twist on classic desserts, and my Piña Colada Poke Cake recipe is the perfect treat to indulge in those sunny vibes. This moist and flavorful cake is a delightful fusion of pineapple yellow cake, rum-infused coconut cream pudding, and a luscious whipped topping. Adorned with toasted coconut, pineapple chunks, and maraschino cherries, each bite is a burst of paradise on your taste buds.
As the temperatures rise, it’s time to embrace the refreshing flavors of summer with this easy-to-make Piña Colada Poke Cake. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a sweet escape, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that embodies the essence of a tropical getaway. Join me in savoring the taste of sunshine with this irresistible dessert that captures the essence of a poolside cocktail in every slice.
Ingredients List
Cake Base
- 1 (15.9 oz) box yellow cake mix
- 3 eggs
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple with juice
Coconut and Pineapple Filling
- 1 cup cream of coconut
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sweetened flaked coconut
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract
- 1/3 cup cream of coconut
- 12 ounces cool whip
- 20 ounces canned crushed pineapple in juice
- 3/4 ounces coconut instant pudding mix
Required Tools and Equipment
When preparing the delightful Piña Colada Poke Cake recipe, there are a few essential tools and equipment that will make the process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
Tools:
- 9×13 Baking Dish
- Mixing Bowls
- Electric Hand Mixer
- Wooden Spoon or Straw for poking holes
- Cooling Rack
- Spatula for spreading batter
- Baking Spray for greasing the dish
- Oven
- Refrigerator
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Can Opener (for canned pineapple)
- Whisk (for mixing)
- Sharp Knife (for slicing garnishes)
- Serving Platter or Cake Stand
Having these tools and equipment ready before you start ensures a seamless and successful baking experience, resulting in a delicious Piña Colada Poke Cake that will impress your friends and family.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Cake Base
To start making your Piña Colada Poke Cake, prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish and preheat your oven according to the instructions on the yellow cake mix box. Gather all the required ingredients listed on the cake mix box, including eggs, butter, water, and the cake mix. Follow the instructions on the box to mix and bake the cake.
Creating the Coconut and Pineapple Filling
While the cake is baking, drain the juice from two 8-ounce cans of crushed pineapple. Reserve the crushed pineapple in a separate bowl. In a mixing bowl, combine the reserved pineapple juice, a 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk, and a 15-ounce can of cream of coconut. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to create a delicious coconut and pineapple filling.
Adding the Filling to the Cake
Once the cake is baked and cooled for about 10 minutes, use the back of a wooden spoon or a straw to poke holes all over the cake. Pour the condensed milk mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Allow the cake to cool completely before proceeding to the next step. For best results, refrigerate the cake for about 2 hours.
Preparing and Applying the Frosting
After the cake has chilled, spread the drained crushed pineapple evenly over the top of the cake. In a separate bowl, mix 16 ounces of whipped topping (Cool Whip) with 1 teaspoon of rum extract. Spread the whipped topping mixture evenly over the pineapple-covered cake, ensuring complete coverage.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make your preparation smoother, you can opt to make parts of this delicious Piña Colada Poke Cake ahead of time. Here’s how you can do it:
- Prepare the Cake Base in Advance:
You can bake the pineapple yellow cake base ahead of time. Allow it to cool completely, then tightly wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before assembling the entire cake. - Make the Coconut Cream Filling in Advance:
The rum-flavored coconut cream filling can also be made ahead. Once prepared, cover the cake dish with the coconut cream mixture using plastic wrap, ensuring it touches the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. - Assemble Before Serving:
Before serving, take out the pre-made cake base and coconut cream filling from the refrigerator. Follow the assembly steps as described in the recipe by soaking the cake with the coconut cream, topping with whipped cream, chopped pineapple, and toasted coconut.
By preparing elements of the Piña Colada Poke Cake beforehand, you can save time and effortlessly assemble this tropical treat just before it’s time to indulge.
Baking Tips and Tricks
When preparing a delightful Piña Colada Poke Cake, a few baking tips and tricks can elevate your dessert-making experience. Here are some handy pointers to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time:
1. Properly Grease Your Baking Dish
Before pouring in the cake batter, ensure to thoroughly grease your 9×13 baking dish with baking spray or butter. This step helps prevent the cake from sticking to the pan, making it easier to remove the slices later.
2. Gently Fold in the Crushed Pineapple
When incorporating the crushed pineapple into the cake batter, gently fold it in to avoid overmixing. This preserves the pineapple chunks in the cake, adding bursts of fruity flavor in every bite.
3. Allow Sufficient Cooling Time
After baking the cake, let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before proceeding with the next steps. This cooling period ensures that the cake sets properly and absorbs the delicious coconut and pineapple mixture.
4. Optimal Poke Hole Technique
When poking holes in the cake, use a fork gently to prevent damaging the cake’s surface. Evenly spaced holes allow the coconut and pineapple liquid to seep into the cake, infusing it with tropical flavors.
5. Thoroughly Mix the Topping
When preparing the whipped topping with rum extract, ensure to mix it thoroughly until smooth and creamy. This step guarantees a perfect consistency for spreading over the cooled cake, creating a luscious topping that complements the fruity flavors.
Serving Suggestions
When serving this delectable piña colada poke cake, there are a few extra steps you can take to enhance the experience for your guests. Here are my top serving suggestions to elevate the presentation and taste of this tropical dessert:
1. Chilled Presentation:
For the best taste and texture, serve the piña colada poke cake chilled. Allowing the flavors to meld together in the refrigerator overnight enhances the overall taste experience. The cold temperature adds a refreshing element to this tropical treat, making it perfect for warm summer days.
2. Garnish with Fresh Pineapple:
To add a vibrant and fresh touch to your dessert, consider garnishing each slice with a piece of fresh pineapple. The juicy sweetness of the pineapple complements the creamy coconut and tart pineapple flavors of the cake. It also adds a pop of color that makes the dessert visually appealing.
3. Toasted Coconut Flakes:
Sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top of the whipped cream before serving. Toasting the coconut enhances its nutty flavor and adds a crunchy texture to the cake. It also brings out the tropical coconut flavor even more, making each bite of the piña colada poke cake truly irresistible.
4. Serve with Piña Colada Cocktails:
For a complete tropical experience, pair your piña colada poke cake with refreshing piña colada cocktails. The creamy, coconut-infused drink complements the flavors of the cake perfectly, creating a cohesive and delightful dessert experience for your guests.
Enjoy these serving suggestions to transform your piña colada poke cake into a show-stopping tropical dessert that will impress everyone at your table.
Conclusion
I hope this Piña Colada Poke Cake recipe inspires you to bring a taste of the tropics to your next gathering. With its pineapple yellow cake base soaked in rum-coconut cream pudding and topped with fluffy whipped cream, this dessert is sure to impress. Remember to follow the baking tips shared to ensure a perfect outcome. By serving it chilled, garnishing with fresh pineapple, and adding toasted coconut flakes, you can take this cake to the next level. Pair it with Piña Colada cocktails for a complete sensory experience. Get creative with your presentation and enjoy the tropical flavors of this delicious treat!
