Welcome, lovely! Today, Chef Luna is bringing you a truly irresistible Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake recipe that will blow your mind. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how quickly it comes together for any occasion. With over 40 years of experience in the kitchen, I promise you this dessert will become a new favorite in your house. Whether it’s a busy weekday treat or a dish for a special gathering, this simple yet mouthwatering cake has your name written all over it.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons why Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake will quickly become your go-to dessert. Let me walk you through why this simple yet delicious treat is a must-try!
Quick & Easy:
This cake is as effortless as it gets. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a show-stopping dessert ready to serve in under an hour. No fancy techniques or hours in the kitchen just pure convenience.
Simple Ingredients:
You don’t need to search high and low for complicated ingredients. Everything you need is likely already in your pantry: canned cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple, a box of cake mix, and butter. It’s the kind of recipe that lets you get creative without any stress.
Perfect for Any Occasion:
Whether it’s a family dinner, a summer cookout, or a last-minute dessert for unexpected guests, Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is the perfect crowd-pleaser. Its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma make it an ideal treat for holidays, parties, or even a quiet night at home.
Crowd-Pleaser:
There’s something about the combination of sweet cherries and tangy pineapple that makes this cake irresistible. Add in the golden, buttery topping, and it’s no surprise that everyone will be asking for the recipe. This dessert is always a hit, no matter the occasion.
Unbelievably Delicious:
The balance of flavors here is unmatched. The richness of the cake mix combined with the juicy, slightly tart fruit filling creates a comforting, satisfying dessert experience. Every bite is the perfect combination of soft, sweet fruit and crisp, buttery topping.
What really sets this recipe apart is its ability to deliver big flavor with so little effort. In just a few simple steps, you can create something truly spectacular that will impress guests and leave everyone asking for seconds. This is one of those recipes that feels like a hidden gem easy, tasty, and always a winner!
Ingredients Needed
For this delicious Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that come together to create something amazing. Here’s the breakdown:
For the Base:
- 21-ounce can cherry pie filling
- 14-ounce can crushed pineapple (undrained or drained based on your preference)
For the Cake Layer:
- 15.25 ounces yellow cake mix (or white cake mix, if you prefer a lighter flavor)
For the Topping:
- 12 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 1/2 sticks), frozen and chopped into small squares
These basic ingredients are all you need to make a dessert that’s as easy as it is tasty. No fancy ingredients just pure, delicious simplicity. You can also customize the recipe with variations like using different pie fillings or adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut or nuts on top. The possibilities are endless!
How to Make Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake
Making this Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is so easy, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. Follow these simple steps for a dessert that’s sure to impress:
- Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8-inch round cake pan with cooking spray. This ensures that your cake won’t stick and bakes evenly. - Prepare the Fruit Layer:
Dump the cherry pie filling and the crushed pineapple into the prepared cake pan. Spread them out evenly, ensuring they cover the bottom of the pan. You want the fruit to create a luscious, juicy base for the cake. - Add the Cake Mix:
Open the box of yellow cake mix and pour it evenly over the fruit layer. Use a spoon to spread it out, making sure there are no large clumps. Don’t mix it in this is a “dump” cake, so the layers will bake into each other for that signature texture. - Top with Butter:
Take the frozen butter and cut it into small squares. Dot the butter evenly over the cake mix layer. This will melt as the cake bakes, creating a golden, crisp topping that’s the perfect contrast to the soft fruit underneath. - Bake:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-60 minutes. The cake is ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you insert a toothpick into the center, it should come out clean. Don’t worry if the topping cracks or looks a little uneven that’s what makes it so rustic and delicious. - Cool Slightly:
Once it’s done baking, take the pan out of the oven and let the cake cool for just a few minutes. This gives the layers a chance to settle and makes it easier to serve. - Serve:
This cake is best served warm, but you can also enjoy it cold. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top for an extra indulgence. Whether served plain or with a topping, it’s sure to be a hit!
With these simple steps, you’ll have a homemade dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Every bite will be filled with juicy fruit and a buttery, crumbly topping perfection!
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
- For the ultimate indulgence, serve your Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The contrast of the warm cake with the cold topping is simply irresistible.
- If you want a bit of crunch, sprinkle some toasted pecans or shredded coconut on top before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- For a more festive touch, drizzle the top with caramel sauce or a bit of chocolate syrup. The extra sweetness pairs beautifully with the fruit filling.
Storage Tips:
- Leftovers? No problem! Store any remaining cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the cake covered so it stays moist and delicious.
- If you’d like to store it for longer, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore its warmth and texture.
- For freezing, place the cake in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.
This cake is so versatile, it can be served fresh or saved for later, all while maintaining its incredible flavor and texture!
Helpful Notes
Ingredient Variations:
- Cake Mix Alternatives: If you’re looking to mix things up, consider using white cake mix for a lighter flavor, or chocolate cake mix for a richer, more decadent dessert. The chocolate pairs wonderfully with the cherries, giving you a unique twist on the classic dump cake.
- Fruit Variations: While this recipe calls for cherries and pineapple, feel free to get creative with different pie fillings! Try peach or apple filling for a change. You can even mix different fruit fillings for a fun combination of flavors.
- Add-ins: For a crunchy texture, sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans on top. If you’re a fan of coconut, adding shredded coconut to the cake mix or topping is a great way to enhance the flavor.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- Topping Texture: If the topping isn’t as crispy as you’d like, try broiling the cake for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking. Keep a close eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn, but this trick will give you that perfect golden, crunchy top.
- Too Wet? If your cake looks too wet after baking, it might be due to the pineapple’s moisture. To fix this, try using drained pineapple next time, or bake it a little longer to allow the excess moisture to evaporate.
Making It Gluten-Free:
- To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix. Make sure to check the label for any other potential sources of gluten. It’s an easy way to cater to dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor!
Make-Ahead Tips:
- You can prep the ingredients in advance by layering the fruit and cake mix in a baking dish and storing it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just dot with butter and bake as usual. It’s a great option for busy days when you want a delicious dessert without much effort.
These little tips and tricks will help you customize your Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake to your tastes while ensuring it turns out perfect every time!
Conclusion
This Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is the ultimate dessert simple, delicious, and impossible to resist. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dessert that will impress guests and satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you serve it warm with ice cream or enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat, it’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
I promise you, once you try this cake, it will quickly become a family favorite. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and give it a star rating if you loved it! I’d love to hear how it turned out for you and any fun variations you tried. And if you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it on Pinterest or Facebook so others can enjoy it too.
Trying these recipes is a fantastic way to elevate your cooking and discover new favorites for any occasion. Peach Cobbler offers a sweet and comforting dessert with a perfect balance of tender fruit and buttery crust, ideal for family gatherings or special meals.
Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs provide a hassle-free way to enjoy tender, flavorful ribs with minimal effort, making them perfect for busy nights or weekend cookouts. For a decadent treat, Black Forest Cheesecake brings together rich, creamy cheesecake with the indulgent flavors of chocolate and cherries an irresistible dessert that’s sure to impress guests. And don’t forget about Air Fryer Zucchini Fries a healthier, crispy alternative to traditional fries, offering a savory snack or side dish that’s both delicious and guilt-free.
These recipes not only add variety to your meal plan but also bring bold flavors and easy-to-follow instructions that make cooking enjoyable and rewarding!
What is the biggest mistake to avoid when making a dump cake?
The biggest mistake is not evenly distributing the butter over the cake mix. Be sure to dot the butter across the entire surface so it melts evenly, creating a golden, crispy topping. If you skip this step, the top may not bake as evenly, and the texture may not be as perfect.
Do pineapples and cherries go together?
Absolutely! The sweet, tart flavor of cherries pairs beautifully with the bright, tropical taste of pineapple. Together, they create a balanced, refreshing flavor profile that makes this dump cake so irresistible.
Does cherry pineapple dump cake need to be refrigerated?
No, this cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it covered to maintain its moisture. If you prefer, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days to keep it fresh longer.
Can I use pineapple juice instead of water in a cake mix?
Yes! Using pineapple juice instead of water adds an extra burst of flavor and enhances the fruity taste of the cake. It’s a great way to make the cake even more flavorful without changing the overall texture.
What does pineapple do to a cake?
Pineapple adds moisture and a natural sweetness to the cake. The acid in the pineapple also helps to tenderize the crumb, creating a soft and delicious texture. It’s the perfect complement to the rich, buttery topping.
Does milk instead of water make a cake more moist?
Yes! Substituting milk for water can make the cake more moist. The fat in milk helps to enrich the texture, giving the cake a denser, more tender crumb. It also adds a bit of creaminess to the overall flavor.
Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake (4 Ingredient Recipe)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease an 8-inch round cake pan with cooking spray.
- Dump cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple into the cake pan and spread evenly.
- Pour the cake mix evenly over the fruit and smooth out any large clumps.
- Dot the top with chopped, frozen butter, ensuring it’s spread out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm or cold, with optional whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top.
