The Tropical Hawaiian Sunset Cake is a beautiful and delicious cake inspired by tropical island flavors and the glowing colors of a sunset over the Pacific. It’s known for its moist texture, bright fruity filling, and creamy topping that makes every slice refreshing and memorable. Combining elements like pineapple, coconut, and light cake layers, this dessert brings a special touch to gatherings, celebrations, or any day you want a taste of the islands.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 package white or orange cake mix
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 package orange gelatin
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable or canola oil
Filling
- 1 can (about 20 oz) crushed pineapple, well drained
- 2 cups sugar
- 10 oz flaked coconut
- 1 cup sour cream
Frosting
- 8 oz whipped topping, thawed
- Reserved 1 cup of the pineapple filling from above
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Pans
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans so the layers don’t stick.
2. Make the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, milk, instant pudding mix, orange gelatin, eggs, and oil.
Beat the ingredients together until smooth and well mixed.
3. Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the three prepared pans.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and place on wire racks to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, mix the drained crushed pineapple, sugar, flaked coconut, and sour cream.
Stir until the sugar dissolves and the filling is well combined.
Set aside 1 cup of this mixture — this reserved portion will be used to make the frosting.
5. Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on your serving plate or stand.
Spread about one-third of the pineapple filling evenly over the top of this layer.
Repeat with the second cake layer and another third of the filling.
Place the final cake layer on top and spread the remaining filling over it.
6. Make the Frosting
Take the reserved 1 cup of pineapple filling and gently fold it into the thawed whipped topping.
This creates a creamy tropical frosting.
7. Frost the Cake
Use the whipped topping mixture to frost the top and sides of the assembled cake.
Smooth the frosting evenly to cover the layers and give the cake a finished look.
8. Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate the cake for at least one hour before cutting and serving.
Chilling allows the flavors to meld and makes the cake easier to slice.
Serving and Storage
This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
It makes a beautiful centerpiece at parties, summer gatherings, or any celebration where a light, fruity dessert is welcome.
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for a couple of days.
Why You’ll Love It
The Hawaiian Sunset Cake balances moist, tender cake with a bright tropical filling and a whipped creamy topping. It’s not overly sweet, and the combination of pineapple and coconut gives every bite a refreshing island vibe. With its vibrant flavor and eye-catching presentation, this dessert feels like a mini escape to paradise.