Indulgent Millionaire’s Cake: A Simple, Layered Dessert with Pineapple & Cream Cheese
Prepare to delight your taste buds with our incredible Millionaire’s Cake! This dessert is deceptively easy to create, starting with a humble box of yellow cake mix and transforming into a luxurious, multi-layered confection. It features a tender cake base, a rich vanilla pudding and cream cheese layer, sweet crushed pineapple, and a cloud-like topping of airy Cool Whip, all finished with a sprinkle of shredded coconut and vibrant maraschino cherries. It’s a truly magnificent treat that tastes like a million bucks, earning its fitting name.
Why This Millionaire’s Cake Recipe Works So Well
While the name “Millionaire’s” often conjures images of millionaire’s shortbread or millionaire’s bars – rich, decadent caramel and chocolate creations similar to a Twix candy bar – this Millionaire’s Cake offers a completely different, yet equally delightful, experience. This recipe embraces a sweet, refreshing, and incredibly fruity vibe, built upon luscious layers of pineapple, creamy vanilla pudding, and fluffy Cool Whip topping. It’s a dessert that not only tastes extraordinary but is also remarkably straightforward to assemble, making it a true winner for any occasion.
This cake is an absolute showstopper and a perfect choice for warmer months. Its refreshing flavors make it an ideal spring or summer dessert, guaranteed to be a hit at potlucks, barbecues, family gatherings, or any event where you need to feed a crowd. The balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy textures is simply irresistible. Furthermore, this recipe is designed for ease and convenience. Using readily available, simple ingredients, you won’t need to spend countless hours in the kitchen to achieve this impressive result. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular, embodying both elegance and homemade comfort in every single bite.
Key Ingredients for Your Millionaire’s Cake
Crafting this delicious Millionaire’s Cake requires a select few, accessible ingredients that work in harmony to create its distinctive flavor and texture. Below is a concise list of what you’ll need. For the precise measurements, detailed instructions, and a printable version of the recipe, please refer to the complete recipe card at the end of this post.
Ingredient Information and Expert Substitution Suggestions
For the best results and a smooth, lump-free cake, it’s crucial to **use room temperature ingredients, especially for the pudding and cream cheese mixture.** If you find yourself with lumps, don’t fret; simply allow the mixture to warm up a bit more, then continue mixing until it achieves a silky smooth consistency.
- The Cake Base: Our recipe calls for a 9-ounce box of Jiffy yellow cake mix. This specific size is ideal because the generous volume of the other delicious layers in this cake perfectly fills a standard 13×9 inch pan without overflowing. If you only have a standard 15.25-ounce box of yellow cake mix, you can certainly use it! Simply prepare the batter as instructed on the package, but only transfer half of the prepared batter into your 13×9 pan. The remaining batter can be used to make a batch of cupcakes or a smaller 8-9 inch single-layer cake, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Feel free to experiment with other cake mix flavors like white cake mix or even a lemon cake mix for a zesty twist that pairs wonderfully with pineapple. For those who prefer a completely homemade touch, a simple from-scratch yellow cake recipe can also be used, adjusted to fit a 13×9 pan.
- Pineapple Power: Crushed pineapple is a star ingredient, bringing a burst of tropical flavor and moisture. The key here is to **drain the crushed pineapple exceptionally well.** Excess liquid is the enemy of a perfectly structured cake, as it can make the layers soggy. You can achieve thorough draining by pressing the pineapple firmly into a sieve with the back of a spoon, or even by squeezing handfuls of it with your hands. To elevate the pineapple flavor even further, consider using a pineapple-flavored instant pudding mix instead of vanilla, or add a few drops of pineapple extract to your vanilla pudding mixture. Other drained canned fruits like mandarin oranges, sliced peaches, or diced mango can also make fantastic substitutions for a different fruity profile.
- Creamy Pudding Layer: The vanilla instant pudding mix, combined with softened cream cheese, creates a rich and tangy second layer that beautifully complements the cake and pineapple. Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened to room temperature; cutting it into smaller pieces before adding it to the pudding mixture will aid in achieving an effortlessly smooth blend. For variations, chocolate pudding can add a different dimension, or a coconut cream pudding could enhance the tropical theme.
- Cool Whip Topping: The Cool Whip provides that signature light, airy, and refreshing finish. An 8-ounce container will give you a nice, even layer across the cake. If you desire a more generous, thicker Cool Whip topping, opt for a 12-ounce container. For those who prefer to make their own, freshly whipped cream can be used as a substitute, though it might not be as stable as Cool Whip for extended refrigeration. Remember that Cool Whip should be thawed in the refrigerator before use, but kept chilled.
- Garnishes: Shredded coconut (toasted or untoasted, depending on your preference for a nutty crunch or a softer texture) and bright maraschino cherries add not only visual appeal but also complementary flavors and textures. For an extra layer of richness and crunch, consider garnishing with chopped walnuts or pecans.
Crafting Your Millionaire’s Cake: Step-by-Step Guide
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are provided to help you visualize each stage of making this delicious Millionaire’s Cake. For a complete printable version of this recipe, including exact measurements and a concise instruction list, you can Jump to Recipe at the very bottom of this post.
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), or follow the specific temperature instructions provided on your chosen cake mix package. This ensures your oven is perfectly ready when your cake batter is.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, one large egg, two tablespoons of vegetable oil, and half a cup of cold water. Using a standing mixer or a hand mixer, beat these ingredients together on high speed for 2-3 minutes. Continue mixing until the batter is smooth, light, and well combined, with no dry spots remaining.
- Generously grease a 13×9 inch glass baking dish to prevent the cake from sticking. Carefully spread the prepared cake batter evenly into the bottom of the greased dish. Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out completely clean, indicating it’s fully cooked.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and place it on a wire rack. It is absolutely essential to allow the cake to cool down completely to room temperature. This process usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Rushing this step can lead to your subsequent layers melting or becoming runny.
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the creamy pudding layer. In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla instant pudding mix with two cups of room temperature milk.
- To this pudding mixture, add the 8 ounces of softened cream cheese. For optimal blending, it helps to cut the cream cheese into smaller pieces before adding it. Using a hand mixer, beat the pudding and cream cheese together for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is completely smooth, thick, and free of any lumps.
- Once the cake is completely cool, carefully spread the thick, creamy pudding and cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of the cake base, creating a decadent second layer.
- Next, evenly distribute the well-drained crushed pineapple over the pudding layer. Make sure the pineapple is spread to all edges for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Finally, gently spread the Cool Whip over the top of the pineapple layer. You can dollop it on first and then smooth it out with an offset icing spatula or a rubber spatula for a clean finish.
- To complete your Millionaire’s Cake, generously garnish the top with shredded coconut and vibrant maraschino cherries, if desired. These toppings add a beautiful aesthetic and extra bursts of flavor and texture.
- For optimal flavor and set, cover the cake and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving. This chilling time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and the layers to firm up. Slice into 15 generous pieces and serve chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Millionaire’s Cake
Yes, absolutely! While crushed pineapple is traditional and pairs wonderfully, this cake is highly adaptable. Another incredibly popular and delicious option is to use well-drained mandarin oranges, which add a lovely citrusy sweetness. Drained sliced peaches or even diced mango would also be fantastic choices, each bringing its own unique flavor profile to the layered dessert. Just remember to ensure any fruit you choose is thoroughly drained to prevent the cake from becoming soggy.
To maintain its freshness and delightful texture, Millionaire’s Cake should always be stored in the refrigerator. Simply cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container with a lid. When stored properly in the fridge, your cake will remain delicious for up to 7 days, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
Absolutely! This cake is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors actually deepen and meld beautifully with time. You can prepare the entire Millionaire’s Cake a day in advance and store it, covered, in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time on the day of your event but also ensures the layers are perfectly set and the taste is fully developed. Just pull it out when you’re ready to serve.
Yes, you can freeze the baked Millionaire’s Cake. To do so, ensure the cake is completely cooled and assembled. Wrap it tightly first with a layer of plastic wrap, making sure to press out any air, and then follow with a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps prevent freezer burn. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving. The texture may be slightly softer after freezing and thawing, but it will still be delicious.
Lumps in your pudding and cream cheese mixture are usually a result of using cold ingredients. Cream cheese, especially, needs to be at room temperature to blend smoothly. If your milk is too cold when combined with the instant pudding mix and cream cheese, the cold temperature can cause the cream cheese to harden and refuse to fully incorporate. To avoid this, always make sure your cream cheese is thoroughly softened (cutting it into smaller cubes helps) and use room temperature milk for the pudding. If you do end up with lumps, don’t despair! Let the mixture sit at room temperature for an additional 10-15 minutes, then beat it again with your hand mixer until smooth.
Any fat content of milk will work perfectly for this recipe, from skim milk to whole milk. We typically use whole milk for a richer, creamier pudding, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand or prefer. The most important factor, as mentioned above, is that the milk should be at room temperature when you combine it with the pudding mix and cream cheese to ensure a smooth consistency.
While Cool Whip is recommended for its stability and light texture, you can certainly substitute it with homemade whipped cream for a more gourmet touch. If using homemade whipped cream, make sure it’s sweetened to your liking and whipped to firm peaks. Keep in mind that homemade whipped cream is generally less stable than Cool Whip and may deflate over time, especially if the cake sits for several days. For best results with homemade whipped cream, assemble the cake closer to serving time or add the whipped cream just before serving.
Delicious Serving Suggestions for Millionaire’s Cake
Millionaire’s Cake is a delightful dessert that truly shines when served chilled. The cold temperature enhances the refreshing qualities of the pineapple and the creamy texture of the pudding and Cool Whip layers. For an elegant presentation, garnish each slice with a sprinkle of extra shredded coconut – whether toasted for a deeper flavor and crunch or untoasted for a softer texture. A vibrant maraschino cherry on top adds a beautiful pop of color and a touch of classic charm. For those who enjoy a bit more texture, consider adding a scattering of finely chopped walnuts or pecans over the Cool Whip layer. This cake pairs wonderfully with a fresh cup of coffee or a light, unsweetened iced tea, making it perfect for an afternoon treat or the grand finale to any meal. It’s also sturdy enough for picnics and outdoor gatherings, provided it’s kept cool.
More Irresistible Cake Mix Recipes to Try
If you loved the simplicity and deliciousness of this Millionaire’s Cake, you’re in for a treat! Cake mixes are a fantastic shortcut to creating incredible desserts with minimal effort. Here are a few more of our favorite cake mix recipes that are sure to become staples in your baking repertoire:
- Tropical Pineapple Poke Cake: A moist yellow cake soaked in a delicious pineapple syrup, topped with whipped cream and more pineapple.
- Bright & Sunny Pineapple Sunshine Cake: Light and airy with a refreshing pineapple flavor, perfect for any sunny day.
- Easy 3-Ingredient Peach Cobbler Dump Cake: The ultimate fuss-free dessert, combining peaches and cake mix for a warm, comforting treat.
- Classic Banana Pudding Poke Cake: A delightful fusion of two favorite desserts, featuring banana pudding and whipped topping.
- Rich Cherry Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting: A vibrant, fruity cake with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting.
I absolutely adore spending time in the kitchen, experimenting with new recipes, and sharing my culinary discoveries with all of you! It can sometimes be challenging to remember to check back daily for new inspiration, which is why I offer a convenient newsletter delivered straight to your inbox every time a new recipe is posted. Simply subscribe here and start receiving your free daily recipes, making delicious discoveries effortless!
Millionaire’s Cake
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 9 ounce Jiffy yellow cake mix or use half of a standard 15.25-ounce package of yellow cake mix
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
- ½ cup cold water
- 3.4 ounce package of vanilla instant pudding mix
- 2 cups milk at room temperature (any fat content is fine)
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened at room temperature (cut into pieces)
- 20 ounces crushed pineapple drained exceptionally well
- 8 ounces Cool Whip thawed (use 12 oz for a thicker layer)
- ½ cup shredded coconut for garnish (toasted or untoasted, optional)
- 15 maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)
Equipment You’ll Need
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Hand mixer
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13×9 baking dish
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Offset icing spatula or rubber spatula
Important Notes & Pro Tips
- Room Temperature is Key: For a flawlessly smooth pudding and cream cheese layer, ensure your cream cheese is thoroughly softened to room temperature, and use milk that is also at room temperature. Cold ingredients will cause the cream cheese to seize, resulting in a lumpy mixture. If this happens, simply let the mixture sit for a short while to warm up, then re-mix until smooth.
- Cake Mix Selection: This recipe is designed around a 9-ounce Jiffy yellow cake mix to perfectly fit a 13×9 inch pan with all the luscious layers. If you’re using a standard 15.25-ounce box, prepare the batter as directed, but only use half of it in your 13×9 pan. The remaining batter can be baked into cupcakes or a smaller cake.
- Flavor Boost: To amplify the pineapple flavor, consider using pineapple-flavored instant pudding mix, or simply add a few drops of pineapple extract to your vanilla pudding mixture.
- Drain Pineapple Thoroughly: This cannot be stressed enough! Excess liquid from the crushed pineapple will make your cake soggy. Press it firmly in a sieve or squeeze it with your hands until as much liquid as possible is removed.
- Cool Whip Layer: An 8 oz container of Cool Whip provides a nice, light layer. For a more substantial and indulgent topping, use a 12 oz container.
- Garnish Variations: Beyond shredded coconut and maraschino cherries, feel free to add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
- Storage: Always keep Millionaire’s Cake covered in the refrigerator. An airtight container or plastic wrap will keep it fresh for up to 7 days.
- Freezing Instructions: To freeze, wrap the assembled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Make Ahead: This cake is perfect for making in advance! Prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate, covered, until you’re ready to serve. The flavors will have even more time to develop.
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) or according to cake mix package instructions.
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Beat together cake mix, egg, oil, and water for 2-3 minutes on high speed with a standing or hand mixer until smooth.
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Spread the cake batter into a greased 13×9 glass baking dish and bake for 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack (approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour).
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Meanwhile, combine vanilla pudding mix and room temperature milk in a large mixing bowl.
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Add the softened cream cheese (cut into pieces) to the pudding mixture and beat with a hand mixer for 1-2 minutes until smooth and thickened.
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Spread the smooth pudding mixture evenly over the cooled cake.
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Top this layer with the thoroughly drained crushed pineapple, spreading it evenly.
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Gently spread the thawed Cool Whip over the top of the pineapple layer.
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Garnish with shredded coconut and maraschino cherries, if desired, for a final flourish.
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Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to allow the cake to set and flavors to meld. Slice into 15 pieces and serve chilled.
Nutrition Information
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.