Pistachio Pineapple Cake

Pistachio Pineapple Cake: A Moist, Nostalgic Dessert with Tropical Charm

Pistachio Pineapple Cake is one of those effortlessly delightful desserts that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly different. With its soft green crumb, bursts of juicy pineapple, and a light, fluffy topping, this cake is known for being incredibly moist and easy to prepare. It’s often called a “dump cake,” but don’t let the name fool you—this dessert delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or anytime you want a sweet treat without spending hours in the kitchen, Pistachio Pineapple Cake is a timeless favorite.

What Makes This Cake Special?

The magic of this cake lies in a few simple ingredients working together:

Pistachio pudding mix gives the cake its signature color and nutty-sweet flavor.
Crushed pineapple with juice adds moisture and a gentle tropical tang.
Light whipped topping creates an airy frosting that balances the sweetness.

No butter, no eggs, and no oil are needed, making this cake surprisingly light while still rich and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake

1 box white or yellow cake mix
1 small box (about 3.4 oz / 100 g) instant pistachio pudding mix
1 can (about 20 oz / 560 g) crushed pineapple with juice
½ cup chopped pistachios (optional, for texture and garnish)

For the Topping

1 small box instant pistachio pudding mix
1 cup cold milk
1 tub whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed

Step-by-Step Method to Make Pistachio Pineapple Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). Lightly grease a rectangular baking dish (around 9×13 inches) to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

The dry cake mix
The dry pistachio pudding mix

Pour in the entire can of crushed pineapple, including the juice. Using a spatula or hand mixer, stir everything together until well combined. The batter will be thick and slightly textured from the pineapple.

Tip: Do not add eggs, oil, or water—this recipe relies entirely on the pineapple for moisture.