Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake

Introduction

Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is one of the easiest and most delicious desserts you can make. It is called a “dump cake” because the ingredients are simply poured, or “dumped,” into a baking dish and baked in the oven. There is very little mixing involved, which makes this recipe perfect for beginners.

This dessert combines sweet cherries and juicy pineapple with a buttery cake topping. As the cake bakes, the fruit becomes warm and bubbly while the cake mix forms a soft and slightly crispy topping. The result is a dessert that tastes like a mix between fruit cobbler and cake.

Another reason people love Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is its convenience. It uses only a few simple ingredients that are easy to find at the grocery store. It is also quick to prepare, making it a great option for last-minute desserts.

This cake is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, holidays, or simple weeknight treats. It tastes wonderful on its own, but it becomes even better when served with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. If you enjoy fruity desserts that are simple to make, this recipe is definitely worth trying.

---

Cooking Time & Prep Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Baking Time: 40–45 minutes
• Total Time: About 55 minutes
• Servings: 8–10 servings

This dessert is quick to assemble and easy to bake.

---

Ingredients

• 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
• 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Optional Toppings

• Vanilla ice cream
• Whipped cream
• Powdered sugar

Tip: Do not drain the pineapple. The juice helps create the perfect texture while baking.

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

This helps prevent sticking and makes serving easier.

---

2. Add the Cherry Filling

Pour the cherry pie filling into the baking dish.

Spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish.

This will be the first layer of the dessert.

---

3. Add the Pineapple

Pour the crushed pineapple (including the juice) over the cherry layer.

Spread it evenly so the fruit covers the entire surface.

Small tip: Try not to mix the layers together. Keeping them separate helps create the best texture.

---

4. Add the Cake Mix

Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the fruit.

Make sure the cake mix covers the fruit completely.

Do not stir the mixture.

---

5. Add Butter

Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix.

Try to cover as much of the dry mix as possible.

This helps create a golden and slightly crispy topping.

---

6. Add Optional Ingredients

If desired, sprinkle cinnamon and chopped nuts over the top.

These ingredients add extra flavor and texture.

---

7. Bake the Cake

Place the baking dish in the oven.

Bake for 40–45 minutes.

The top should become golden brown, and the fruit filling should bubble around the edges.

---

8. Cool Slightly

Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes.

This helps the fruit filling thicken slightly.

---

9. Serve

Scoop the cake into bowls.

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

---

Tips & Variations

Use different cake mix

White cake mix or butter cake mix works well in this recipe.

Add coconut

Sprinkle shredded coconut on top for a tropical flavor.

Try different fruit

Peach or blueberry pie filling can replace cherry filling.

Make it gluten-free

Use a gluten-free cake mix.

Make it dairy-free

Use plant-based butter instead of regular butter.

Small tip: Make sure the butter is spread evenly so the cake topping bakes properly.

---

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

Serving size: 1 portion

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 3 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 30 g

Values may vary depending on ingredients used.

---

Health Benefits

Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake contains fruits that provide some nutritional benefits.

Cherries

Cherries contain antioxidants that may help support heart health and reduce inflammation.

Pineapple

Pineapple is rich in vitamin C and contains enzymes that may support digestion.

Fruit-based dessert

Because the recipe contains fruit, it provides natural flavor and some vitamins.

While this dessert is still a treat, the fruit ingredients add nutrients and natural sweetness.

---

Serving Suggestions

Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is delicious in many ways.

With ice cream

Warm cake with cold vanilla ice cream creates a perfect dessert combination.

With whipped cream

A spoonful of whipped cream adds light sweetness.

For gatherings

This cake is perfect for potlucks, holidays, and family dinners.

With coffee or tea

The fruity sweetness pairs nicely with warm beverages.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The cake will stay fresh for 3–4 days.

Reheat individual servings in the microwave before serving.

---

Conclusion

Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is a simple and delicious dessert that anyone can make. With only a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a warm and fruity dessert that tastes wonderful.

The combination of sweet cherries, juicy pineapple, and buttery cake topping creates a comforting dish that is perfect for many occasions. It is easy enough for beginners and flexible enough to customize with different flavors.

Whether you serve it at a family gathering, holiday dinner, or casual weekend meal, this dessert is sure to be a favorite.

Try making Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake at home and share it with family and friends. Its sweet, fruity flavor and easy preparation will make it a recipe you come back to again and again!