If you’re looking for a nostalgic dessert that’s incredibly easy to whip up yet bursting with flavor, the Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This delightful treat combines the sweet and tangy punch of cherry pie filling with the tropical brightness of crushed pineapple, all topped with a golden, buttery cake crust that magically bakes itself in one simple step. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in, this dump cake brings comfort and joy with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From luscious fruit fillings to the buttery cake topping, these simple pantry staples blend beautifully into a standout dessert.
- Cherry pie filling: This provides the rich, sweet-tart cherry flavor that’s the dessert’s foundation.
- Crushed pineapple (with juice): Adds tropical juiciness and a subtle tang to complement the cherries perfectly.
- Yellow cake mix: The dry cake mix bakes up into a golden, tender crust that’s surprisingly crispy on top.
- Unsalted butter: Thinly sliced for even melting, it creates that irresistible richness and helps the cake crisp.
- Chopped nuts (optional): They bring a lovely crunch and a toasty note if you want to add some texture contrast.
How to Make Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure a perfect bake. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make serving easier later on.
Step 2: Layer the Cherry Pie Filling
Spread the entire can of cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. This rich, vibrant layer is the star that brings a luscious, jammy sweetness to every bite.
Step 3: Add the Crushed Pineapple
Next, spoon the crushed pineapple along with its juice right on top of the cherry layer. This not only enhances the flavor contrast but also adds moistness that keeps the cake tender.
Step 4: Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Evenly scatter the dry yellow cake mix over the fruit layers without stirring. This layer is what will become your crispy, buttery crust once baked.
Step 5: Dot with Butter
Arrange thin slices of unsalted butter all over the surface of the cake mix. As it melts during baking, it creates a golden, crispy topping that’s absolutely irresistible.
Step 6: Add Nuts (Optional)
Sprinkle chopped nuts evenly on top if you want to introduce a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweet fruit and buttery crust.
Step 7: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Bake the dump cake for 50 to 60 minutes, until the top is a beautiful golden brown and the fruit filling is bubbling enticingly around the edges. This baking time ensures a perfect balance of ooey, gooey fruit and crisp topping.
Step 8: Cool Slightly Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let the cake cool for a few minutes. This resting time helps the filling thicken slightly, making it easier to serve and even more enjoyable to eat.
How to Serve Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream turns this dump cake into a decadent dessert experience. Fresh cherries or pineapple slices on the side add a pretty, fresh touch and a hint of natural sweetness.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs beautifully with a light, refreshing salad or even a cup of hot coffee or tea to balance the sweetness. For summer barbecues, serve alongside grilled meats or tangy coleslaw to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the dump cake in individual ramekins for a charming single-serving presentation. You can also layer it parfait-style with whipped cream and fresh fruit for an elegant twist that will wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead treat.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake after baking and cooling it completely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds; for a crispier top, warm the whole cake in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes. Either way, warm dump cake tastes just like fresh from the oven!
FAQs
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned for this Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe?
While canned pie filling and crushed pineapple ensure the perfect consistency and sweetness, you can substitute fresh fruit if you prefer. Just make sure to cook down fresh fruit slightly to achieve the right texture and moisture level.
Is there a gluten-free option for this dump cake?
Yes! Simply swap out the traditional boxed cake mix for a gluten-free yellow cake mix, and check that your pie filling and other ingredients are gluten-free to keep it safe and delicious.
Can I omit the nuts or replace them with something else?
Absolutely! The nuts are optional and can be left out without sacrificing flavor. Alternatively, try sprinkling shredded coconut or even oats for a different texture boost.
What can I use instead of butter in this dump cake?
If you want to avoid butter, try using a plant-based margarine or coconut oil slices. They’ll still give you that buttery richness and help crisp up the topping nicely.
How long does the Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe last after baking?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, this dump cake can last up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s covered well to maintain moisture and prevent it from drying out.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully comforting about the Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe that makes you want to make it again and again. It’s the perfect mix of effortless prep and mouthwatering flavor, which earns its place as a classic dessert for every season. Trust me, once you try this, it’s going to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines sweet cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple under a golden, buttery cake topping. With minimal prep and just layering ingredients in a baking dish, it’s perfect for effortless entertaining or a comforting family treat.
Ingredients
Fruit Layer
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice
Cake Layer
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the dump cake.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Layer Cherry Filling: Spread the entire 21 oz can of cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish to form the first fruit layer.
- Add Pineapple Layer: Evenly layer the 20 oz of crushed pineapple with juice on top of the cherry filling, ensuring an even distribution of fruit.
- Sprinkle Cake Mix: Generously sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit layers, covering all areas.
- Add Butter Slices: Arrange thinly sliced 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter over the surface of the cake mix, spreading them out to allow for even melting during baking.
- Add Nuts (Optional): If using, sprinkle 1/2 cup of chopped nuts evenly over the top for extra texture and flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit filling is bubbly around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
Notes
- You can substitute pecans or walnuts for the chopped nuts or omit them if preferred.
- For a lighter version, use a reduced-fat cake mix and substitute butter with a butter alternative.
- This dessert is best served warm but can be reheated if needed.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm and fruity flavors perfectly.
