Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Layer the Pineapple Open the can of crushed pineapple and pour the entire contents, including the juice, into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom of the pan using a spoon.
Step 3: Add the Cherry Layer Spoon the cherry pie filling over the pineapple layer, distributing it as evenly as possible. Don’t worry about perfect coverage – the rustic look adds to the charm.
Step 4: Top with Cake Mix Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit layers. Use a spoon to gently spread it if needed, but don’t mix it into the fruit below.
Step 5: Add Butter and Nuts Distribute the thin butter pats evenly across the top of the cake mix. If using nuts, sprinkle them over the butter for added crunch and flavor.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling around the edges.
Step 7: Cool and Serve Allow the dump cake to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set up properly and prevents burns from the hot fruit filling.
Helpful Tips
Choose Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe has so few components, using high-quality cherry pie filling and cake mix will make a noticeable difference in the final result.
Don’t Skip the Juice: The pineapple juice is crucial for creating the right moisture level and helping the cake mix cook properly from the bottom up.
Butter Distribution Matters: Make sure to slice your butter into thin, even pats and distribute them across the entire surface. This ensures even browning and prevents dry spots.
Test for Doneness: The cake is ready when the top is golden brown and you can hear the fruit bubbling. If the top browns too quickly, cover with foil and continue baking.
Serving Suggestions: This dump cake is delicious on its own but becomes extra special when served warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Details
. Prep Time: 10 minutes
. Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
. Total Time: 55-60 minutes
. Servings: 12-15 servings
. Difficulty Level: Beginner
Equipment Needed: 9×13-inch baking dish, can opener, measuring cups
This Easy Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake Recipe works because the fruit juices create steam that helps cook the cake mix from below, while the butter on top creates a golden, crispy crust. The result is a dessert with multiple textures and a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Notes
Cake Mix Variations: While yellow cake mix is traditional, you can experiment with white cake mix for a lighter flavor or even spice cake mix for a more complex taste profile.
Fruit Substitutions: Feel free to swap the cherry pie filling for other flavors like blueberry, apple, or peach. You can also use fresh fruit, but you’ll need to add extra sugar and cornstarch to achieve the right consistency.
Make-Ahead Option: This dump cake can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Dietary Modifications: For a lighter version, you can use sugar-free cake mix and pie filling, though the texture may be slightly different.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? A: While you can use fresh pineapple, canned crushed pineapple works better because it includes the juice necessary for proper cake texture. If using fresh, add about 1/2 cup of pineapple juice.
Q: Why is my dump cake soggy? A: Sogginess usually results from too much liquid or underbaking. Make sure to bake until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Also, let it cool for at least 15 minutes to allow the layers to set.
Q: Can I double this recipe? A: Yes, you can double the ingredients and use two 9×13-inch pans or one large roasting pan. Adjust baking time as needed, checking for doneness with the same visual cues.
Q: How do I know when it’s done baking? A: The dump cake is ready when the top is golden brown, the edges are bubbling, and you can insert a toothpick into the cake portion (not the fruit) and it comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
Q: Can I freeze leftover dump cake? A: Yes, cooled dump cake can be frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator Storage: Cover the cooled dump cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually improve after the first day as they have time to meld together.
Freezer Storage: For longer storage, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place in freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for best quality tracking.
Reheating: To serve leftover dump cake warm, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds, or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Room Temperature: This dump cake can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours, making it perfect for potlucks and outdoor gatherings.
Conclusion
This Easy Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake Recipe proves that the best desserts don’t always require complicated techniques or hours of preparation. With its perfect combination of sweet cherries, tangy pineapple, and buttery cake topping, this dump cake delivers restaurant-quality flavor with home kitchen simplicity. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at a family gathering or just want a comforting dessert for a weeknight treat, this recipe is your answer to delicious, stress-free baking.
The beauty of dump cake lies not just in its simplicity, but in its reliability – it works every time and always brings smiles to the table. So the next time you need a dessert that’s guaranteed to please without the fuss, remember this Easy Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake Recipe. Your guests will never guess how easy it was to make!
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