The Dreamy Twinkie Pineapple Cake Recipe Everyone Will Love

Sweet memories collide with tropical dreams in this delightful twinkie pineapple cake that brings unexpected magic to dessert tables.

Creamy sponge cake layers mingle with sunshine-bright fruit for a surprising twist.

Nostalgic treats blend seamlessly with fresh ingredients, creating something wonderfully unique.

Bakers looking for a playful dessert will adore this simple yet remarkable combination.

Soft, moist twinkies provide a delectable foundation for tangy pineapple’s bright notes.

Each slice promises a delightful journey through comfort and excitement.

Tropical Twist in Twinkie Pineapple Cake

• Celebrate Unique Dessert Mashup: Combine classic Twinkies with tropical pineapple for an unexpected and delightful sweet treat that surprises taste buds.
• Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: Requires simple assembly with no complicated baking steps, making it perfect for novice cooks or busy home bakers who want a crowd-pleasing dessert.
• Kid-Friendly Crowd Pleaser: Incorporates beloved Twinkies and sweet cream, creating an irresistible dessert that appeals to children and adults alike with its playful and indulgent layers.
• Quick Party Showstopper: Easy to prepare in advance, this dessert works beautifully for potlucks, family gatherings, and casual celebrations without requiring extensive kitchen skills.

Twinkie Pineapple Cake Must-Haves

• Twinkies: Soft, cream-filled sponge cakes that form the foundation of the dessert.

• Crushed Pineapple: Juicy fruit that adds a tropical moisture to the cake.

• Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: Creamy mix that creates a smooth, sweet layer.
• Milk: Liquid that helps activate the pudding mix.

• Heavy Whipping Cream: Rich dairy that creates a light, fluffy topping.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweet ingredient that adds smoothness to the whipped cream.
• Vanilla Extract: Classic flavoring that enhances the dessert's sweetness.
• Coconut Extract: Tropical flavor that complements the pineapple.

• Toasted Coconut: Crunchy, nutty topping that adds texture.
• Maraschino Cherries: Optional bright red decoration for visual appeal.

Pineapple Twinkie Cake Steps

Step 1: Prepare Cake Foundation

Slice each Twinkie in half lengthwise and place them cream-side facing upward across the bottom of a rectangular baking dish. Ensure the Twinkies create a complete base layer covering the entire dish surface.

Step 2: Add Tropical Fruit Layer

Generously distribute crushed pineapple evenly across the Twinkie foundation. Spread the fruit carefully to create a uniform pineapple covering over the cake base.

Step 3: Create Creamy Pudding Blanket

In a mixing bowl, combine milk and instant pudding mix. Whisk vigorously until the mixture becomes smooth and starts to thicken. Pour the pudding mixture slowly and consistently over the pineapple layer, ensuring complete coverage.

Step 4: Craft Fluffy Cloud Topping

• Heavy whipping cream
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Coconut extract

Whip the ingredients using an electric mixer until stiff, glossy peaks form. Carefully spread the whipped cream across the pudding layer using smooth, sweeping motions.

Step 5: Final Decorative Touch

Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes across the top of the whipped cream. Optionally, add maraschino cherries for a pop of color and extra sweetness. Chill the dessert for at least one hour before serving to allow layers to set.

Cake Tips for Pineapple Twinkie Treat

• Slice Twinkies Evenly: Cut Twinkies horizontally to create uniform layers that provide a consistent base for the dessert.
• Drain Pineapple Thoroughly: Remove excess moisture from crushed pineapple to prevent a watery cake and ensure a perfect texture.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow layers to set and flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Adjust Sweetness Level: Use sugar-free pudding mix or reduce powdered sugar in whipped cream for a less sweet version.
• Toast Coconut Carefully: Watch coconut while toasting to prevent burning, stirring frequently for an even golden-brown color.

Save Leftover Twinkie Pineapple Cake Like A Pro

• Store covered with plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Keep sealed to prevent drying out and absorbing other food odors.
• Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or place in an airtight container. Freeze for maximum 2 weeks. Avoid freezing as whipped cream texture may change.
• Remove from freezer and let sit in refrigerator overnight. Do not thaw at room temperature to maintain food safety.
• Best served chilled. If desired, let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Avoid microwave reheating to prevent cream separation.

Twinkie Cake Complementing Ideas

• Pair Sweet Tropical Cocktails: Mix rum-based piña colada to complement the cake's tropical pineapple and coconut flavors, creating a delightful dessert drink experience.
• Create Contrasting Coffee Companion: Brew dark roast espresso or strong black coffee to cut through the cake's sweetness and provide a robust counterpoint to the creamy dessert.
• Match Creamy Dessert Wines: Select a chilled moscato or sweet riesling, which will enhance the cake's tropical undertones and provide a smooth, light accompaniment.
• Serve Refreshing Palate Cleanser: Offer cold, unsweetened iced tea with a hint of lemon to balance the cake's rich, sweet profile and refresh the taste buds between bites.

Pineapple Cake Style Changes

• Gluten-Free Edition: Replace Twinkies with gluten-free sponge cake or almond flour cake, ensuring the same soft texture and easy layering.
• Tropical Vegan Version: Substitute Twinkies with vegan sponge cake, use coconut milk pudding, coconut whipped cream, and replace dairy with plant-based alternatives.
• Low-Sugar Remix: Use sugar-free pudding mix, low-fat cream cheese topping, and sugar-free Twinkies or angel food cake for a lighter dessert option.
• Keto-Friendly Adaptation: Create a base with almond flour cake, use sugar-free instant pudding, replace sugar with stevia, and top with whipped mascarpone cheese.

FAQs

• Can I use other cake brands instead of Twinkies?

Yes, you can substitute Twinkies with similar cream-filled snack cakes like Ho Hos or Little Debbie cakes if Twinkies are unavailable.

• Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Absolutely! Kids love the sweet, creamy layers and fun texture of this dessert. It’s colorful, easy to make, and doesn’t require baking.

• How long does the pudding layer need to set?

The pudding layer typically needs about 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator to slightly firm up before adding the whipped cream topping.

• Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this cake a day in advance. Just add the whipped cream topping and garnishes right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

Twinkie Pineapple Cake Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 30 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Nostalgic American “Twinkie Pineapple Cake” blends childhood snack memories with tropical sweetness. Creamy filling and tangy pineapple layers create a delightful dessert that brings smiles and comfort to your table.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 9 Twinkies
• 1 can (20 ounces/567 grams) crushed pineapple
• 2 cups milk
• 1 package (3.4 ounces/96 grams) vanilla instant pudding

Cream Ingredients:

• 1 pint heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract

Garnish Ingredients:

• 2 cups toasted shredded coconut
• Maraschino cherries (optional, for decoration)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Carefully slice Twinkies lengthwise and position them cream-facing upward across the entire bottom of the baking dish, creating a uniform base layer.
2. Gently distribute crushed pineapple across the Twinkie foundation, ensuring even coverage and minimal gaps between fruit pieces.
3. Combine cold milk with instant pudding mix, whisking thoroughly until smooth and slightly thickened, then delicately pour the mixture over the pineapple layer.
4. In a chilled mixing bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar, incorporating vanilla and coconut extracts until the mixture develops stiff, billowy peaks.
5. Delicately spread the whipped cream topping across the pudding layer, using smooth, sweeping motions to create an elegant surface.
6. Enhance the dessert’s visual appeal by generously sprinkling toasted coconut flakes over the cream layer.
7. Optional: Artfully place maraschino cherries at intervals for a vibrant, festive touch that adds color and traditional charm to the dessert.
8. Refrigerate the cake for at least two hours to allow layers to set and flavors to meld, ensuring a perfectly chilled and cohesive dessert experience.

Notes

• Slice Twinkies carefully to maintain their shape and prevent crumbling, ensuring an even base layer.
• Drain pineapple thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the cake soggy and compromising the texture.
• For a lighter version, substitute full-fat ingredients with low-fat alternatives like skim milk, light whipped cream, and sugar-free pudding mix.
• Enhance flavor complexity by lightly toasting coconut beforehand, which releases deeper, nuttier undertones and adds a delightful crunch to the dessert.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: None
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 318
• Sugar: 22 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg