If you are craving a dessert that tastes like a tropical celebration in every bite, the Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is your perfect match. This delightfully moist pineapple cake, studded with nuts and crowned with luscious whipped cream cheese frosting, delivers a beautiful balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors that feel like a warm island hug. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, this cake’s tropical charm and light texture make it an unforgettable crowd-pleaser that’s sure to bring smiles all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, everyday ingredients, each playing a key role in creating that signature tropical taste and tender crumb. Trust me, these pantry staples combine to make something truly extraordinary!
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of your cake, providing structure and softness.
- Baking soda: Helps your cake rise perfectly and stay tender.
- Salt: Enhances all the sweet and tropical flavors.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right without overpowering.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, comforting depth to the flavor.
- Crushed pineapple (undrained): The star ingredient that brings moisture and that iconic tropical sweetness.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty contrast.
- Cream cheese (softened): Gives the frosting its creamy tang and luscious texture.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths out the frosting perfectly.
- Whipped topping (Cool Whip, thawed): Lightens the frosting with its fluffy, airy quality.
- Shredded sweetened coconut (optional): Adds texture and enhances the tropical vibe as a finishing touch.
How to Make Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Dry and Wet Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan so your cake comes out effortlessly. In one large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt — this ensures your leavening distributes evenly and your cake bakes uniformly. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and nicely combined; this step creates a sweet and rich base that the pineapple will brighten wonderfully. Stir in the crushed pineapple with its juice — don’t drain it, as that juice adds crucial moisture and flavor.
Step 2: Combine and Add Nuts
Now, gently add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir just until everything is blended together. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, but we want this cake light and tender. If you love a little crunch, fold in your chopped walnuts or pecans here. These nuts add a lovely contrast to the cake’s softness and a subtle nutty flavor that fits perfectly with the tropical theme.
Step 3: Bake and Cool
Pour your batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Pop it into the oven for 35 to 40 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake — once it comes out clean, your cake is ready. Take it out and let it cool completely in the pan, which will help it stay moist before frosting.
Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake cools, it’s time to prepare the show-stopping whipped cream cheese frosting. Beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until silky smooth. Then fold in the thawed whipped topping gently to keep that fluffy, light texture. This frosting is a perfect blend of creamy richness and airy sweetness — ready to elevate your pineapple cake to the next level.
Step 5: Frost and Chill
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. For an extra punch of tropical fun, sprinkle shredded sweetened coconut on top if you like. Then, refrigerate the cake for at least one hour. This chill time allows the flavors to meld and the frosting to set beautifully, making every slice finger-licking good.
How to Serve Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes or a handful of finely chopped macadamia nuts on top for an appealing crunch and enhanced tropical aroma. If you want to bring a splash of color, fresh pineapple slices or maraschino cherries work wonderfully as decorative accents.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides such as tropical fruit salads or a scoop of creamy coconut ice cream, which will enhance the island vibes. A cup of chilled pineapple or passionfruit punch also makes a refreshing companion to this sweet treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Present your cake on a rustic wooden board or a colorful tropical-themed platter to highlight its festive nature. Cut into neat squares and serve on small plates garnished with a mint leaf or edible flowers for an elegant, celebratory feel. For parties, try serving it in mini glass cups layered with extra frosting and crushed pineapple for individual “deconstructed” versions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it moist and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors. Enjoy your leftovers within 3 to 4 days for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this cake freezes well. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to preserve the creamy frosting’s perfect consistency.
Reheating
Because of the whipped cream cheese frosting, it’s best to serve this cake chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a warmer slice, let it sit out for 15 to 20 minutes before serving, but avoid microwaving, as it can cause the frosting to separate and lose its lovely texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple adds a vibrant flavor, but be sure to include some juice for moisture. Just crush it finely to blend well into the batter.
Is this cake suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe contains no meat or gelatin, making it perfect for vegetarians.
Can I substitute the whipped topping with freshly whipped cream?
Definitely. Whipping your own cream adds a luxurious freshness, though the Cool Whip provides consistent fluffiness and is easier to work with.
What type of nuts work best in this cake?
Walnuts and pecans are classic choices for their mild flavor and pleasing texture, but macadamia nuts or almonds also pair beautifully with the tropical notes.
How far ahead can I make this cake?
This cake is ideal when made one day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly and the frosting to set. You can even make it two days ahead if stored properly in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
Making the Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is like bringing a slice of paradise right into your kitchen. The harmonious blend of pineapple sweetness, nutty crunch, and fluffy cream cheese frosting creates a dessert that’s both comforting and exciting. Don’t hesitate to whip up this cake for your next gathering or when you need a cheerful, delicious escape — it’s guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe box.
