The Pineapple Cream Cheese Bundt Cake delivers the perfect fusion of tropical flavor and creamy indulgence in a beautifully baked ring. With its moist yellow cake base, tangy crushed pineapple, and a rich ribbon of cream cheese filling, this dessert brings a delightful burst of sunshine to any table. Finished with a sweet pineapple glaze and the option of toasted coconut, it’s a vibrant and elegant treat that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve. From special occasions to everyday sweet cravings, this cake offers a slice of paradise in every bite.
👉 Don’t miss our Are You Kidding Me Cake for another unforgettable, easy dessert.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
The Cake Base
- Yellow Cake Mix: The foundation, moist and fluffy.
- Instant Vanilla Pudding: Adds richness and helps lock in moisture.
- Eggs, Oil & Sour Cream: Together, they give the cake its soft, velvety texture.
- Crushed Pineapple: Brings tangy sweetness and natural moisture.
- Baking Powder: Boosts the rise for perfect fluff.
The Cream Cheese Filling
- Cream Cheese: The star of the show—soft, rich, and indulgent.
- Sugar, Egg & Vanilla: Balance the tang and create a custard-like center.
The Glaze & Optional Garnish
- Pineapple Juice + Powdered Sugar: Light, citrusy glaze.
- Toasted Coconut (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and tropical vibe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your Bundt pan thoroughly—this ensures the cake slides out perfectly after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, drained pineapple, oil, sour cream, vanilla extract, and baking powder. Mix until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes with an electric mixer.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth. This layer will create that luscious swirl inside the cake.
Step 4: Layer and Bake
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan. Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over it, then top with the remaining batter. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Glaze
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then invert onto a rack. Once fully cooled, whisk together the glaze ingredients and drizzle over the top. Add toasted coconut if desired.
Baking Tips for a Flawless Bundt Cake
Preventing Sticking
Use a pastry brush to reach every crevice with oil or butter and flour. Don’t skimp on this—Bundt cakes are notorious for sticking.
Ensuring Even Layers
Spread the cream cheese filling gently and avoid swirling it too much. You want that signature ribbon of flavor running through the center.
👉 Read more about bundt baking consistency from our Reese’s Cheese Ball, which relies on firm texture and layering.
Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips
Serving Ideas
- Pair with tropical fruits like kiwi or mango.
- A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream goes wonderfully on the side.
- Serve chilled for a firmer texture or slightly warm for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
How to Store It
Wrap leftovers tightly and store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze slices individually for quick desserts.
Variations to Try
Coconut-Pineapple Dream
Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut to the batter for extra flavor.
Tropical Rum Bundt
Replace 2 tablespoons of pineapple juice with dark rum for an adult twist.
👉 Looking for inspiration? Try our Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake for another rich, Southern-inspired delight.
Nutritional Info & Allergen Notes
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/12 slice) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Total Fat | 16g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 39g |
| Sugar | 24g |
| Protein | 4g |
Allergens: Eggs, wheat, dairy
FAQ
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, but make sure it’s finely chopped and well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
Can I skip the glaze?
Of course! The cake is sweet and moist enough on its own, but the glaze adds a nice finish.
What if I don’t have a Bundt pan?
A loaf pan or 9×13 pan can work, but you may need to adjust baking time and layering style.
Can this cake be made ahead of time?
Yes, it’s actually better the next day once the flavors meld together!
How do I toast coconut for garnish?
Spread shredded coconut on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until golden.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and double-check all your other ingredients.
Conclusion
From brunches to birthdays, the Pineapple Cream Cheese Bundt Cake makes any occasion feel like a celebration. It’s moist, sweet, slightly tangy, and topped with a glossy glaze that’s as easy to make as it is to love. So go ahead—slice into sunshine.
👉 Don’t miss our Homemade No-Knead Sandwich Bread if you’re feeling like baking even more comfort!