Delicious and Easy Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe

Looking for a quick and delightful dessert to bring to your next potluck, neighborhood social, or family reunion? Look no further! This family-friendly Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is a scrumptious treat that comes together in less than ten minutes with just six simple ingredients. Its sweet and fruity flavors, combined with a crunchy topping, make it a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple
1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling

1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
1 cup chopped pecans
1 (15.25-ounce) box yellow cake mix

½ cup butter (1 stick), melted

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Pan

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
Prepare the Baking Pan: Spray the bottom and sides of a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Assemble the Dump Cake

Layer the Pineapple: Pour the crushed pineapple with its juice into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
Add the Cherry Pie Filling: Pour the cherry pie filling over the pineapple layer.
Sprinkle the Coconut and Pecans: Evenly sprinkle the sweetened coconut flakes and chopped pecans over the cherry pie filling.

3. Add the Cake Mix and Butter

Top with Cake Mix: Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the pecans and coconut.
Drizzle with Butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix. It’s okay if the butter doesn’t cover the entire surface; it will spread while baking.

4. Bake

Bake the Cake: Bake the cake uncovered in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

5. Serve

Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.

Tips for the Best Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake

Pineapple Substitute: If you don’t like pineapple, you can use two cans of cherry pie filling instead.
Flavor Variations: For a different flavor profile, switch out the cherry pie filling for other fruit fillings like blueberry, peach, strawberry, or apple pie filling. You can also use a chocolate cake mix for a Black Forest dump cake.
Nut Alternatives: If you don’t like pecans, try using other nuts such as chopped walnuts or sliced almonds.
Drizzling Butter: The melted butter may not cover the whole top of the cake mix, but do your best when drizzling it. It will all come together perfectly during baking.
Slow Cooker Method: This cake can also be assembled in a slow cooker and cooked on high for 2 hours or on low for 4 hours.
Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in a microwave-safe bowl for about 45 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to crush it and include some of its juice to maintain the moisture and sweetness of the cake.

Q: What other cake mix flavors can I use?
A: You can use any flavor of cake mix you like. For a more unique taste, try using chocolate, white, or even spice cake mix.

Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Q: Can I add more fruit to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add additional fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries for a more complex flavor.

Q: How can I make this dessert less sweet?
A: To reduce the sweetness, you can use unsweetened coconut flakes and choose fruit fillings with no added sugar. Additionally, you can cut down the amount of sugar in the cake mix if making your own.

Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Yes, you can use margarine as a substitute for butter, but the flavor and texture might be slightly different.

Q: How do I know when the cake is done?
A: The cake is done when the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.

Q: Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare and bake the dump cake ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through before serving.

Conclusion

This Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is a simple yet delightful dessert that’s perfect for any gathering. With its easy preparation and delicious taste, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your collection. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, attending a family reunion, or simply craving a sweet treat, this dump cake will not disappoint. Try out the variations, experiment with different fruits and nuts, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this easy-to-make dessert!