The Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is the ultimate no-fuss dessert that feels like a warm hug. With juicy cherries, tangy pineapple, crunchy pecans, and buttery golden cake mix, this crowd-pleasing treat comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
It’s perfect for potlucks, cozy family dinners, or anytime you’re craving something warm, sweet, and nostalgic. The bubbling fruit layer and crisp buttery top make it impossible to resist—especially when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Full Recipe:
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1 box yellow cake mix
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1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
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1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
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1 cup chopped pecans
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1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Spread cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish.
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Add crushed pineapple (including juice) in an even layer over the cherries.
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Sprinkle yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit layer.
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Top with chopped pecans.
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Drizzle melted butter evenly across the entire surface.
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Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the top is golden and fruit is bubbling.
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Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 410 kcal | Servings: 10 servings
Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake: A Simple and Delicious Dessert
Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is a quick and easy dessert that has become a beloved go-to for home bakers, especially those looking for a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing treat. This dessert combines two classic fruits—cherries and pineapples—with a cake mix, creating a rich, fruity, and comforting dish with minimal effort. While this cake may have a humble name, it delivers big on flavor and satisfaction. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced baker looking for something simple, Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is a recipe that anyone can make, and everyone will enjoy.
What Makes Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake So Popular?
One of the main reasons this dessert is so popular is its simplicity. Unlike traditional cakes or desserts that require multiple steps and precise measurements, the Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake allows for easy prep and minimal cleanup. As the name suggests, you “dump” the ingredients into the baking dish, layer them, and let the oven do the work. With a few pantry staples like cake mix, canned fruit, and butter, you can have a delicious dessert ready in no time.
Additionally, its versatility makes it a favorite for all kinds of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, attending a potluck, or simply craving something sweet after dinner, Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake fits the bill. Its comforting, nostalgic flavors appeal to all age groups, making it a crowd-pleasing dessert every time.
The Beauty of Dump Cakes: Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor
A “dump cake” is a type of dessert where you layer ingredients in a baking dish, without the need for mixing or stirring before baking. The simplicity of dump cakes is what makes them so attractive to both novice and seasoned bakers. The idea is to place the ingredients in a specific order and let the oven handle the rest. For Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake, you simply layer the fruit fillings (cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple), sprinkle on the cake mix, and top with melted butter. As the cake bakes, the fruit and butter meld together, creating a moist, gooey texture that’s irresistible.
This makes the recipe ideal for those with busy schedules or beginners who want to impress without spending too much time in the kitchen. In fact, you can even change the flavor profile of a dump cake by swapping out the fruits or cake mixes to match your preferences. Want to make a chocolate cherry dump cake? Go ahead. Or try a peach dump cake for a different fruity spin. The possibilities are endless, which is another reason dump cakes, including the Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake, have earned a loyal following.
How to Serve Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake
The great thing about this dessert is that it is just as delicious on its own as it is when served with an extra topping. For those who enjoy a bit of decadence, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could drizzle some caramel sauce over the top or sprinkle toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.
This cake also pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. Imagine curling up with a warm slice of Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake and a hot cup of your favorite brew—it’s the perfect combination for a cozy afternoon. For those hosting a party or potluck, this dessert works well as a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to portion out, and the combination of fruit and cake makes it a versatile choice that complements various other dishes.
The Versatility of Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake
While the Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is perfect as written, its flexibility makes it adaptable for all sorts of dietary preferences or flavor explorations. You can easily swap out the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free version if needed. For those looking to make the recipe dairy-free, you can use a non-dairy butter substitute and choose a dairy-free cake mix. You can also adjust the fruit components depending on what’s in season or your personal preference. Substituting the pineapple for peaches or adding blueberries along with the cherries will yield delightful results.
In fact, dump cakes in general are ideal for customizing. The original concept allows for so many variations that you can make this dessert your own. Add some chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, for an extra crunch or use different fruit combinations. Whether you prefer tart berries, stone fruits, or tropical flavors, dump cakes offer the perfect foundation for creativity.
Healthier Tweaks and Adjustments
For those who are health-conscious, there are some adjustments you can make to make this dessert a little lighter without compromising on taste. For instance, consider using a reduced-sugar cake mix, or a fruit filling that has no added sugar. You could even make your own homemade fruit filling using fresh fruit and a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Another option is to use a sugar substitute to reduce the overall sugar content of the dessert.
Though this dessert is rich and indulgent, the addition of fresh fruit like pineapple and cherries provides a dose of vitamins and antioxidants, which can make it feel like a slightly more wholesome indulgence. For those who are looking to cut back on calories, serving smaller portions or pairing the dessert with a side of fresh fruit is a great way to enjoy it while still being mindful of your intake.
Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake for Any Occasion
This dessert is not just for family dinners—it’s a fantastic choice for a variety of occasions. Whether you are preparing for a holiday gathering or a simple weeknight treat, Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is an easy option that doesn’t require much thought but always delivers. The cake’s tropical flavor profile makes it especially fitting for summer cookouts or barbecues, but it’s a crowd-pleaser at any time of the year.
For special events, you can also make this cake in individual portions. By baking the dump cake in ramekins, each guest gets their own mini serving that can be customized with their favorite toppings. This can add a personal touch to the dessert and make it feel a little more special. At the same time, you won’t have to worry about serving it up perfectly since the dump cake style means each piece is delightfully rustic.
Conclusion
Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity with deliciousness. Its easy preparation and minimal ingredients make it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a no-hassle treat that still packs a flavorful punch. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this dessert is approachable and highly rewarding. Plus, with the ability to tweak ingredients, it remains versatile for various tastes and dietary needs. Its comforting, fruity layers topped with a golden cake crust make it a dessert everyone can enjoy, making it the perfect go-to treat for all occasions.
So the next time you’re looking for a quick, delicious dessert that will impress your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth, turn to Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake. It’s a guaranteed winner in any kitchen.