Hawaiian Cake Recipe with Whipped Cream: A Tropical Bliss

Name: Hawaiian Cake Recipe with Whipped Cream: A Tropical Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained; 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 4 large eggs; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

June 6, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried making a Hawaiian cake topped with whipped cream, you’re in for a delightful treat! This cake is like a little slice of paradise on a plate, bursting with tropical flavors that’ll whisk you away to a sun-soaked beach. Trust me, there’s something magical about the combination of sweet crushed pineapple and chewy coconut flakes, all topped off with a cloud of fluffy whipped cream. It’s one of those recipes that I just can’t help but share with friends and family every chance I get!

As someone who’s spent countless weekends experimenting in the kitchen, I promise that this cake is not only delicious but also super easy to whip up. I love how it brings back memories of summer days and good vibes. Plus, whether you’re hosting a luau-themed party or just want to brighten up a regular Tuesday, this Hawaiian cake is sure to impress. So, grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into the wonderful world of tropical baking together!

hawaiian cake recipe with whipped cream - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Hawaiian cake a success! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups all-purpose flour – This is the base of your cake, giving it that lovely structure.
1 cup granulated sugar – For sweetness that balances the tropical flavors perfectly!
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained – Adds moisture and a burst of fruity goodness. Make sure to drain it well so your cake isn’t too soggy!
1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes – This brings a delightful chewiness and enhances that tropical vibe.
1/2 cup milk – To keep your cake tender and moist; it’s a must!
1/2 cup vegetable oil – This helps keep the cake rich and adds to the moist texture.
4 large eggs – They’re essential for binding everything together and adding fluffiness.
1 tablespoon baking powder – This is your leavening agent, helping the cake rise beautifully.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor to a whole new level!
1 cup heavy whipping cream – For that dreamy whipped topping that just makes everything better.
2 tablespoons powdered sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream to perfection. Trust me, it’s worth it!

How to Prepare the Hawaiian Cake Recipe with Whipped Cream

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious Hawaiian cake! Follow these step-by-step instructions and you’ll be rewarded with a cake that’s not only scrumptious but also a total showstopper!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your cake bakes evenly. You don’t want to have a cake that’s raw in the middle and burnt on the edges—yikes! So, let that oven warm up while you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and baking powder. Mixing these dry ingredients together before adding the wet ones is crucial; it helps to evenly distribute the baking powder throughout the flour, which means your cake will rise beautifully and have that fluffy texture we all love. Give it a good whisk to combine everything well!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next up, it’s time to add the fun stuff! Crack those eggs into the bowl, then pour in the milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, crushed pineapple, and coconut flakes. This is where the magic happens! Mix everything together until it’s just combined—don’t overdo it! Your batter should be smooth but don’t worry if a few lumps remain; it’ll all come together when you bake it. The aroma of pineapple and coconut will already make your kitchen feel like a tropical paradise!

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased cake pan, spreading it out evenly. Now, pop it into the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, you’re golden! If it’s still gooey, give it a few more minutes. Just don’t peek too often; it needs that uninterrupted heat to rise!

Step 5: Cool the Cake

Once your cake is baked to perfection, take it out of the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, flip it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is super important—if you frost the cake while it’s still warm, the whipped cream will melt and slide right off. We want it to look gorgeous, right? So, patience is key here!

Step 6: Prepare the Whipped Cream

While the cake is cooling, let’s whip up that dreamy whipped cream! In a mixing bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream and add the powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, whip it on medium speed until soft peaks form. You want it fluffy and light, not too stiff. It’ll be the perfect topping to balance all that tropical goodness of the cake!

Step 7: Frost the Cake

Once your cake is completely cool, it’s time to frost! Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the cake using a spatula. Feel free to be generous with that whipped cream—it’s the star of the show! You can even add some extra coconut flakes or a sprinkle of pineapple on top for that finishing touch. Just look at that beauty!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This Hawaiian cake comes together in just about an hour, making it perfect for those last-minute dessert cravings or spontaneous gatherings!
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet pineapple and chewy coconut creates a tropical flavor that’s simply irresistible. It’s like a vacation on your plate!
Fluffy Whipped Cream: The light and airy whipped cream on top adds a luxurious touch that elevates this cake to a whole new level.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, a summer barbecue, or just a cozy night in, this cake fits right in and is sure to impress.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins or toppings, like nuts or extra fruit, to make it uniquely yours!
Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is a great option for everyone, as it’s completely vegetarian and can easily be adapted for dietary restrictions.

Tips for Success

To make sure your Hawaiian cake turns out absolutely perfect, here are some of my favorite pro tips that I’ve learned over the years. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can take your baking game to the next level!

Measure Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so be sure to measure your ingredients precisely. Use a kitchen scale for the best accuracy if you have one!
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smoother batter, let your eggs and milk sit out for a bit to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps everything blend together beautifully.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want it light and fluffy!
Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time. You want it perfectly baked, not overdone!
Cool Completely Before Frosting: I can’t stress this enough—let your cake cool completely before adding the whipped cream. It’ll hold its shape and look so much nicer!
Chill the Bowl for Whipped Cream: If you want to take your whipped cream to the next level, chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for about 10 minutes before whipping. It helps the cream whip up faster and hold its shape longer!
Garnish Creatively: Get creative with your toppings! Fresh fruit, toasted coconut flakes, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce can elevate your cake and make it Instagram-worthy.

With these tips in hand, you’re all set to create a Hawaiian cake that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Happy baking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up a bit, there are so many fun variations you can try with this Hawaiian cake recipe! Here are some of my favorites that will add a unique twist while keeping that delightful tropical vibe:

Mango Madness: Swap out the crushed pineapple for some diced fresh mango. It adds a sweet and slightly tangy flavor that’s absolutely heavenly!
Coconut Lime: Add the zest of one lime to the batter for a refreshing citrus kick. You can even mix some lime juice into the whipped cream for a tangy twist!
Banana Bliss: Fold in some mashed ripe bananas to the batter for added moisture and a hint of banana flavor. It pairs beautifully with the coconut and pineapple!
Nuts About Nuts: If you love a little crunch, toss in some chopped walnuts or macadamia nuts into the batter. They’ll add a great texture and enhance that tropical feel!
Berry Delight: Mix in some fresh blueberries or strawberries for a burst of color and flavor. They bring a lovely tartness that complements the sweetness of the cake.
Spiced Up: For a warm, cozy twist, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. It gives the cake a lovely depth and warmth that’s perfect for any season!
Chocolate Coconut: If you’re a chocolate lover, fold in some mini chocolate chips into the batter for a decadent touch. The chocolate and coconut combo is to die for!

These variations are just a starting point—feel free to get creative and mix your own favorite flavors! The beauty of this Hawaiian cake recipe is that it’s versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste. Enjoy experimenting!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the numbers! I know many of us like to keep an eye on nutritional values, especially when we’re indulging in a sweet treat like this Hawaiian cake. Here’s the estimated nutritional information per slice:

Calories: 280
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 18g
Protein: 4g

Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes, but this should give you a great starting point. And remember, life is all about balance—so don’t feel guilty about enjoying a slice (or two) of this tropical delight! Happy baking and indulging!

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple will give your Hawaiian cake an even brighter flavor. Just be sure to chop it finely and drain any excess juice to avoid making the batter too wet.

What if I don’t have heavy whipping cream?
No worries! You can substitute with a can of coconut cream for a dairy-free option. It’ll still give you that rich and creamy texture you crave!

How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Definitely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and keep it covered at room temperature. Just wait to add the whipped cream until you’re ready to serve for the best results.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the whipped cream starts to weep, you can always whip up a fresh batch to serve on top!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.