If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like sunshine in a bowl and comes together with almost no fuss, you’ve found it. This Easy Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake Recipe is a game changer for those moments when you want something sweet, comforting, and bursting with fruit flavors without pulling out every single mixing bowl you own. It’s a simple layering of crushed pineapple and cherry pie filling topped with cake mix and butter, baked until bubbly and golden. The result? A moist, fruity, and sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait to share all the juicy details with you!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward and accessible ingredients. Each one plays a starring role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that irresistible golden crust you’ll love biting into.
- Crushed pineapple (1 can, 20 oz): Provides juicy sweetness and moisture that keeps the cake tender and flavorful.
- Cherry pie filling (1 can, 21 oz): Adds a vibrant, tart contrast that pairs beautifully with the pineapple’s tropical notes.
- Yellow cake mix (1 box): The secret to that quick, crumbly, and fluffy topping that bakes into a golden crust.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Drizzled over the cake mix to help it bake up crispy and rich.
- Chopped walnuts (1/2 cup, optional): For a little crunch and nutty flavor to elevate the cake’s texture.
How to Make Easy Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish ensures your cake won’t stick and makes for easy cleanup. This little prep step sets you up for success!
Step 2: Layer the Pineapple
Pour the entire can of crushed pineapple, including the juice, evenly across the bottom of your baking dish. This juicy base locks in moisture and adds a gorgeous tropical sweetness that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Step 3: Add the Cherry Pie Filling
Next, spoon the cherry pie filling over the pineapple layer. The contrast between the vibrant cherries and the pineapple creates a colorful and flavorful foundation that’s simply irresistible when baked.
Step 4: Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the yellow cake mix directly on top of the fruit layers, making sure to cover everything completely. This dry topping will absorb the fruit juices as it bakes, creating that signature dump cake texture.
Step 5: Drizzle Butter and Add Walnuts
Pour the melted butter over the cake mix in thin streams. This step is crucial because the butter helps the cake mix bake into a crunchy, golden crust. If you’re a fan of a little added texture and nuttiness, sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top before baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop your dish into the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the filling bubbles around the edges. That bubbling is pure magic in the making!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let your dump cake cool slightly before serving so the layers set a bit. It’s perfect warm, especially when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
How to Serve Easy Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a handful of toasted coconut flakes can add a visually appealing and tasty touch. Fresh cherries or a mint sprig can also brighten each serving, making it feel special even if it’s a casual get-together.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with simple sides like vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to balance the sweetness. If you’re serving it at a party, consider light coffee or a fruity sparkling beverage to complement the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the dump cake in individual ramekins or mason jars. Layer it with extra fresh fruit or a dollop of cream on top for a charming presentation that will impress your guests without extra fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The fruit and cake layers will continue to meld, making your next serving even more flavorful and moist.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dump cake freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through to restore that fresh-baked texture—microwaving works too but might soften the crunchy topping.
FAQs
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned for this recipe?
While canned pineapple and cherry pie filling are convenient and help create the signature juicy texture, you can experiment with fresh fruit. Keep in mind fresh fruit may release less juice, so consider adding a little juice or syrup to compensate.
Is it possible to make this dump cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix, and double check that your pie filling is gluten-free too. The rest of the ingredients don’t contain gluten, so this swap keeps it tasty and safe for gluten sensitivities.
Can I omit the walnuts if I have a nut allergy?
Absolutely, the walnuts are optional and can be skipped if you have allergies or just prefer no nuts. The cake will still be deliciously moist and flavorful without them.
What’s the best way to serve this cake for a crowd?
Prepare the dump cake in a large baking dish to serve a crowd, and consider offering toppings like ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh fruit separately so guests can customize their servings.
How sweet is this Easy Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake Recipe?
This cake strikes a lovely balance between sweet and tart, thanks to the pineapple and cherry mixture. It’s sweet enough to satisfy your dessert cravings without being overwhelmingly sugary.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake Recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and deliciousness, making it a staple to keep in your recipe arsenal. Whether you’re a busy parent, a novice baker, or just craving something sweet and bright, it’s a no-fail dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite at your table!
Print
Easy Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake is a delightful, simple dessert that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple and cherry pie filling with a moist, golden yellow cake topping. It’s perfect for quick preparations and makes a great treat for gatherings or a comforting family dessert.
Ingredients
Fruit Layer
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Cake Layer
- 1 box yellow cake mix
Toppings
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the ingredients.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Layer the Pineapple: Spread the entire can of crushed pineapple, including its juice, evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. This will be the moist fruit base of the cake.
- Add Cherry Pie Filling: Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the pineapple layer, distributing it well to create a balanced fruit layer.
- Apply Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly on top of the fruit layers, making sure to cover all the fruit completely. This will give the cake its crumbly, cakey topping.
- Drizzle Butter and Add Walnuts: Pour the melted unsalted butter evenly over the cake mix. If using, sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top to add a crunchy texture.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the fruit mixture is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool slightly before serving. For extra indulgence, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or substitute with toasted coconut flakes.
- You can substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry or apple pie filling for variety.
- Ensure the butter is fully melted for even coverage over the cake mix.
- This cake is best served warm but can be enjoyed at room temperature as well.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
