Pistachio Pineapple Cake

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Some cakes just scream “family gathering” to me, and this Pistachio Pineapple Cake is one of them. I remember the first time I tasted it at a spring picnic—someone’s grandma brought it, and it vanished in minutes! There’s something magical about that dreamy pale green color and the fluffy, creamy frosting. The best part? It’s unbelievably easy. With every bite, you get sweet pineapple, a hint of pistachio, and a cool, melt-in-your-mouth topping. This is the cake I turn to for potlucks, summer birthdays, or any day that could use a little retro dessert love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Simple: Starts with a boxed cake mix—just mix, bake, and frost.
Bright & Refreshing: Sweet pineapple and cool pistachio pudding are a match made in heaven.
Crowd Pleaser: Everyone loves the flavor (and the color!)—it always disappears fast.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Even better after chilling, so it’s perfect for prepping the night before.
Fun & Nostalgic: Reminds everyone of those classic potluck desserts from childhood.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

1 box angel food cake mix
1 (3.4 oz) box instant pistachio pudding mix
½ cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple (with juices)

For the Frosting:

1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
⅔ cup whole milk
1 (3.4 oz) box instant pistachio pudding mix
Chopped pistachios, for topping (optional)

Instructions

Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the angel food cake mix, 1 box pistachio pudding mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and the entire can of crushed pineapple (including juice). Mix until well combined—batter will be slightly thick and pale green.
Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish; Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
Make Frosting: In a medium bowl, whisk together the second box of pistachio pudding mix and the milk until thickened. Gently fold in the Cool Whip. until smooth and fluffy.
Frost: Spread the frosting evenly. over the cooled cake. If desired, sprinkle chopped pistachios on top for a little crunch.
Chill & Serve: Cover and refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps the flavors blend and makes it easy to cut into neat squares. Serve cold and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Chill for Best Texture: The cake gets even better after a few hours (or overnight) in the fridge.
Switch Up the Topping: Swap Cool Whip for homemade whipped cream if you’d like, but be sure to keep the pudding for that signature pistachio flavor.
Decorate: Add a sprinkle of chopped pistachios or even maraschino cherries for an old-school bakery look.
Pineapple: Don’t drain the pineapple! The juice. keeps the cake extra moist and flavorful.
Storage: Store. leftovers covered in the fridge; for up to 4 days.

FAQ

1. Can I use a different cake mix?
You can! Yellow cake mix or white cake mix work well, though the texture may be a bit more dense than with angel food.

2. What if I don’t have Cool Whip?
You can use stabilized whipped cream, but the texture will be a bit softer. Just; make sure your whipped cream is very cold.

3. Can I make this in advance?
Yes! This cake is actually better after chilling, so feel free to make it a day ahead.

4. Is it very sweet?
It’s sweet, but the tangy pineapple and cool pistachio keep it from being overwhelming.

5. Can I add nuts or coconut to the cake?
Absolutely! Fold in ½ cup chopped pistachios or shredded coconut into the batter for a fun twist.

Enjoy your delightful and refreshing Pistachio Pineapple Cake!

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