Hawaiian Cake

8 servings Prep: 20 m Cook: 40 m Total: 1 h Beginner
5.0/5 (1)
This recipe was given to me 40 years ago with pineapple, coconut, and graham cracker crumbs. Still one of our family favorites—a tropical-tasting cake that’s moist, sweet, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients

8 servings
  • 2 sticks oleo - margarine - butter
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 5 eggs
  • 1 (13.75 oz) package graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract, separated
  • 1 (6 oz) can coconut
  • 1 can
  • 1 cup nuts, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x12 inch baking pan.
  2. Cream oleo and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs and beat well.
  3. Add graham cracker crumbs and milk and beat until smooth.
  4. Add vanilla in 2 parts while beating until smooth.
  5. Fold in coconut, drained pineapple, and chopped nuts.
  6. Pour batter into greased 9x12 pan and bake at 350°F for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Allow to cool before serving.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

A: Fresh pineapple has more moisture and enzymes that can affect the cake's texture. If you use fresh, make sure to dice it small and drain it very well, pressing out excess juice. Canned pineapple works more reliably.

Q: Why is my cake too dense?

A: Make sure you're beating the eggs well with the butter and sugar mixture to incorporate air. Also, don't overmix after adding the graham cracker crumbs—mix just until smooth.

Tips and Techniques

Make sure to drain the pineapple very well—excess liquid can make the cake soggy. You can even press it gently in a strainer to remove extra juice. Pecans are traditional for the nuts, but walnuts work well too.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • oleo/margarine: butter
  • nuts: omit or use pecans, walnuts, or macadamia nuts
  • graham cracker crumbs: vanilla wafer crumbs

Equipment Needed

  • 9x12 inch baking pan
  • electric mixer
  • mixing bowls
  • measuring cups and spoons

Historical Context

Hawaiian-themed desserts became popular across the American South in the mid-20th century, bringing tropical flavors to church potlucks and family reunions. Despite the name, this is a Southern creation inspired by tropical ingredients.