Does Watergate cake need to be refrigerated?

Yes. Because the frosting is made with Cool Whip and pudding mix, it needs to be refrigerated to hold its shape and freshness. Keep it chilled until ready to serve and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How should I store Watergate cake?

Once frosted, store the cake covered in the refrigerator. If unfrosted, you can keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days. However, for best flavor and texture, refrigeration is recommended.

Why was pineapple upside-down cake popular?

In the 1920s, canned pineapple was considered luxurious and trendy. Pineapple upside-down cake became popular because it showcased this new exotic ingredient, and it looked impressive without being complicated to make.

Why is the top of my pineapple upside-down cake soggy?

Excess moisture from fruit, underbaking, or too much syrup can lead to a soggy top. Always drain the pineapple well and bake the cake fully. Let it cool slightly before flipping to prevent sogginess.

Watergate Cake with Pineapple – Moist, Retro & Easy to Make

Description

This Watergate cake with pineapple is moist, nutty, and easy to whip up with boxed mix and pudding. It’s frosted with a creamy Cool Whip pistachio blend that makes every bite a blast from the past.

Ingredients

Scale

1 box white cake mix

1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)

1 box pistachio pudding (3.4 oz)

3 eggs

1 cup water

1/3 cup oil

1/2 cup pistachio nuts, chopped

12 oz tub of Cool Whip

1 box pistachio pudding (3.4 oz) – for frosting

1 cup cold milk

1/4 cup chopped pistachios for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Mix cake mix, pudding, eggs, water, oil, and pineapple in a bowl.

3. Blend on medium speed for 2 minutes.

4. Fold in chopped pistachios.

5. Pour into two 9-inch round pans or one 9×13 pan.

6. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.

7. Cool completely before frosting.

8. Mix milk and second pudding box; chill for 5 minutes.

9. Fold in Cool Whip and chill frosting.

10. Frost cooled cake and garnish with pistachios.

11. Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.

Notes

Drain pineapple thoroughly to avoid soggy texture.

Chill cake before slicing if serving in layers.

Best enjoyed within 3 days; refrigerate leftovers.

Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 30
Category: Cakes
Method: Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 320
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 310mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 45mg