Hawaiian Banana Pineapple Cake (Print Version)

Vanilla cake soaked with banana pudding, topped with pineapple and whipped cream for a tropical finish.

# Ingredients:

→ For the cake base

01 - 1 box French vanilla cake mix
02 - 3 large eggs, at room temperature
03 - 1 cup whole milk
04 - ⅓ cup melted unsalted butter
05 - 2 tablespoons sour cream

→ For the filling and topping

06 - 2 boxes (3.4 ounce each) banana cream instant pudding
07 - 3 cups cold whole milk
08 - 1 can (20 ounce) crushed pineapple in its juice
09 - 1 tub (8 ounce) whipped topping, thawed
10 - Fresh pineapple chunks for garnish (optional)
11 - Toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
02 - In a large bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, eggs, milk, melted butter, and sour cream. Beat with a mixer for 2 minutes until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
03 - Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top springs back when touched or a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool for 5 minutes.
04 - While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke rows of holes all over the cake. Ensure the holes are big enough for the pudding to seep in.
05 - In a bowl, whisk together the banana pudding mix, cold milk, and 1 cup of crushed pineapple with its juice until it starts to thicken.
06 - Pour the pudding mixture over the cake, ensuring it fills all the holes. Use a spatula to push the mixture gently into the holes. Spread any remaining pudding evenly on top.
07 - Drain the remaining crushed pineapple and evenly spread it over the pudding layer.
08 - Spread the whipped topping evenly over the entire cake. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
09 - Cut chilled cake into squares and serve. Garnish with fresh pineapple chunks and toasted coconut flakes if desired.

# Notes and Tips:

01 - For best results, allow the cake to chill overnight to let the flavors meld together.