Ben Kenwood June 26, 2026

This post may contain affiliate links, please see our Disclosure for details.

Hawaiian Dream Icebox Cake

Name: Hawaiian Dream Icebox Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 package of graham crackers; 1 can of crushed pineapple, drained; 1 can of cherry pie filling; 1 package of instant coconut cream pudding mix; 2 cups of milk; 1 container of whipped topping; Shredded coconut for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Hawaiian Dream Icebox Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer in every bite. With its light, creamy layers and sweet fruit toppings, this cake is perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or even a cozy family dinner. The combination of coconut and pineapple flavors creates a tropical experience that pairs wonderfully with warm evenings and sunny days. If you’re seeking a dessert that’s sure to impress without heating up your kitchen, you’ve found it in this recipe!

Reasons to Love Hawaiian Dream Icebox Cake

This icebox cake has a lot going for it:

Effortless to assemble, with no baking required.
Creamy, luscious layers that bring joy with every spoonful.
A perfect blend of tropical fruits that’s refreshing and light.
Ideal for making ahead, so you can spend more time with your guests.
Versatile enough for any occasion, whether casual or festive.

Gather These Ingredients

To make your Hawaiian Dream Icebox Cake, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Each plays a vital role in developing the cake’s layered texture and fruity taste. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 package of graham crackers
1 can of crushed pineapple, drained
1 can of cherry pie filling
1 package of instant coconut cream pudding mix
2 cups of milk
1 container of whipped topping
Shredded coconut for garnish

The blend of flavors here ensures a delightful experience, especially with the sweetness of cherry pie filling and the freshness of pineapple.

Step by Step

In a mixing bowl, combine the coconut cream pudding mix with the milk. Whisk until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy, which should take a few minutes.
Gently fold in the whipped topping until well combined, achieving a smooth and airy texture.
In a 9×13 inch dish, lay down a layer of graham crackers, ensuring they cover the bottom.
Spread half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers, smoothing it out evenly for a nice base.
Pour the drained crushed pineapple on top, distributing it well to encapsulate the tropical flavor.
Add half of the cherry pie filling over the pineapple layer, spreading it out gently.
Repeat the layering process starting with another layer of graham crackers, followed by the remaining pudding mixture, crushed pineapple, and cherry filling.
Finish with a final layer of graham crackers and sprinkle shredded coconut generously on top.
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set properly.

Prep ~15 minutes, Cook ~0 minutes, Total ~4+ hours, Servings ~12, Kcal ~350 (estimate).

Make-Ahead and Prep Tips

Hawaiian Dream Icebox Cake is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. You can prepare it a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the refrigerator. Once assembled, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. This makes it a stress-free option for gatherings, so you can enjoy delicious moments with family and friends.

Storing and Reheating

You can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight. The freshness of the ingredients means that you’ll know it’s ready when the cake retains its creamy texture and the flavors are vibrant.

Perfect Pairings

Here are some delightful options to serve alongside your Hawaiian Dream Icebox Cake:

Fresh tropical fruit skewers
A light, citrusy salad
Coconut-flavored whipped cream
Grilled chicken with a sweet glaze
Herbal iced tea or lemonade
Vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence

Variations and Swaps

Feel free to get creative with your Hawaiian Dream Icebox Cake! Here are some ideas:

Substitute the cherry pie filling with blueberries or diced fresh strawberries for a different fruity twist.
Use chocolate pudding instead of coconut cream for a more decadent dessert.
Lower the calories by opting for reduced-fat whipped topping and pudding mixes.
Add nuts like macadamia or almonds for added texture and flavor contrasts.
Incorporate different tropical fruits like mango or kiwi into the layers for a more vibrant presentation.

Pro Tips for Best Results

To ensure your Hawaiian Dream Icebox Cake turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Let the pudding mix sit for the recommended time to achieve the right thickness.
For a smoother texture, sift the pudding mix before combining with milk.
Gently fold in the whipped topping to maintain its lightness.
Ensure the cake is covered tightly in the refrigerator to prevent it from absorbing flavors from other foods.
Allow the cake to sit in the fridge overnight for the best flavor development.

Your Questions Answered

Can I use different flavored pudding?
Yes, you can substitute other flavors such as vanilla or chocolate for a different taste.
How long will the cake last in the fridge?
The cake can stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days if covered properly.
Is it possible to reduce the sugar in the recipe?
You might consider using sugar-free pudding mix and toppings to lower the sweetness.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze slices of the cake for later enjoyment. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
What makes this cake "dreamy"?
The combination of creamy layers, sweet fruit toppings, and the tropical flavor profile gives it a light, heavenly taste that’s hard to resist.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Dream Icebox Cake is a treat that promises to take your taste buds on a tropical getaway. Its creamy texture, refreshing flavors, and the ease with which it can be prepared make it a standout dessert for any occasion. We encourage you to whip one up soon and indulge in the sweetness of this delightful dish. For an additional sweet treat, you might also enjoy this dreamy sugar cookie cheesecake or this no-bake marshmallow whip cheesecake.

Hawaiian Dream Icebox Cake

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 240 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A delightful icebox cake layered with coconut and pineapple flavors, perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 package of graham crackers
1 can of crushed pineapple, drained
1 can of cherry pie filling
1 package of instant coconut cream pudding mix
2 cups of milk
1 container of whipped topping
Shredded coconut for garnish

Instructions

Combine the coconut cream pudding mix with the milk in a mixing bowl. Whisk until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.
Fold in the whipped topping until well combined, achieving a smooth texture.
Lay down a layer of graham crackers in a 9×13 inch dish.
Spread half of the pudding mixture over the graham crackers.
Pour the drained crushed pineapple on top, distributing it evenly.
Add half of the cherry pie filling over the pineapple layer.
Repeat the layering with another layer of graham crackers, remaining pudding mixture, crushed pineapple, and cherry filling.
Finish with a final layer of graham crackers and sprinkle shredded coconut on top.
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.