Servings: 12
Total Time: ~2 hours 45 minutes (including chilling)
Difficulty: Easy
A Light, Creamy Retro Dessert
Pistachio Pineapple Cake is a classic, easy dessert that’s incredibly moist and full of sweet tropical flavor. The crushed pineapple keeps the cake soft and tender, while the pistachio pudding mix adds a subtle nutty flavor and beautiful light green color.
Finished with a fluffy pistachio Cool Whip frosting and topped with crunchy pistachios, this cake is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or whenever you want a simple dessert that tastes impressive.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box angel food cake mix
- 1 (3.4 oz) box pistachio pudding mix
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 eggs
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple with juices
Frosting
- 8 oz tub Cool Whip, thawed
- ⅔ cup whole milk
- 1 (3.4 oz) box pistachio pudding mix
Optional Topping
- Chopped pistachios for garnish
How to Make Pistachio Pineapple Cake
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl combine:
- Angel food cake mix
- Pistachio pudding mix
- Vegetable oil
- Eggs
- Crushed pineapple with juices
Beat everything together until the batter is smooth and well combined.
3. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely before adding frosting.
4. Prepare the Frosting
In a bowl mix together:
- Milk
- Pistachio pudding mix
Whisk until the mixture begins to thicken.
Gently fold in the Cool Whip until smooth and fluffy.
5. Frost the Cake
Spread the pistachio frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top if desired.
6. Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate the cake for about 2 hours so the frosting sets and the flavors blend together.
Storage
Refrigerator:
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Because of the Cool Whip frosting, this cake should always be kept chilled.
Final Thoughts
Pistachio Pineapple Cake is one of those nostalgic desserts that’s unbelievably easy but always a crowd favorite. The combination of sweet pineapple, nutty pistachio flavor, and creamy frosting creates a soft, refreshing cake that feels light yet satisfying.
It’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners.
