If you’re in search of a dessert that’s both quick and incredibly delicious, a cherry dump cake recipe with pineapple is the perfect solution. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a family meal, or just craving a simple yet indulgent treat, this recipe will satisfy your sweet tooth without the fuss. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as comforting as it is tasty.

What is a Dump Cake?

A dump cake is a super easy dessert that requires minimal prep time and is made by “dumping” a few ingredients into a baking dish, hence the name. It’s more like a cobbler than a traditional cake, thanks to its fruity filling and crumbly top. The beauty of dump cakes lies in their simplicity. You can make them with various fruit fillings, cake mixes, and toppings, creating endless flavor combinations.

One popular variation is the cherry dump cake with pineapple, which combines the sweetness of cherries with the tropical tang of pineapple, all topped with a buttery cake crust. It’s a perfect blend of fruity goodness and comforting dessert that everyone will love.

Ingredients for Cherry Dump Cake with Pineapple

The best part about this cherry dump cake recipe is that it only requires a handful of ingredients, all of which are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 (21-ounce) can of cherry pie filling: This provides the sweet, tart base for the dump cake. It gives the dessert its vibrant red color and rich cherry flavor.
• 1 (20-ounce) can of crushed pineapple, drained: Pineapple adds a juicy, tangy component that balances the sweetness of the cherries.
• 1 box (15.25 ounces) of yellow cake mix: The cake mix serves as the base for the topping. It creates a buttery, golden layer when baked.
• 1 cup of butter (or margarine), melted: The butter ensures a crispy, golden topping and adds richness to the dessert.

Optional Toppings:

• 1 cup of flaked coconut: This gives the cake a bit of texture and a tropical flavor that complements the pineapple.
• ½ cup of chopped walnuts: Walnuts add a crunchy element and a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the soft, fruity filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake

Making this cherry pineapple dump cake couldn’t be easier! Follow these simple steps to create your perfect dessert:

1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.

2. Layer the Fruit

• Open the can of cherry pie filling and spread it evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
• Add the crushed pineapple on top of the cherries, making sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

3. Add the Cake Mix

• Open the yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the fruit layers. No need to mix it—just cover the fruit entirely with the dry cake mix.

4. Add the Butter and Toppings

• Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. This step helps the cake mix bake into a golden, crispy topping.
• Optionally, sprinkle flaked coconut and chopped walnuts on top for extra flavor and texture.

5. Bake and Enjoy!

• Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
• Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition Facts

This cherry dump cake with pineapple is a rich and indulgent treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (1/18 of the recipe):

Reviews from the Community

This cherry dump cake with pineapple has received rave reviews from people who’ve tried it! Here are a few highlights:

• Barbara says, “This recipe is super easy and so tasty! I love the combination of pineapple and cherry. It’s like a tropical twist on a classic dump cake!”
• Sarah adds, “I served it with whipped cream, and it was a huge hit at the family reunion! Everyone asked for the recipe. So easy and so delicious!”
• John notes, “The addition of walnuts and coconut really takes this cake to the next level. It’s crunchy, moist, and full of flavor!”

Tips and Praise

Tips:

• Butter: Always use real butter for the best results. Margarine can make the topping greasy, while real butter creates a crispy, golden layer. Cold butter is easier to slice, but you can also run your knife under hot water to make cutting even easier.
• Press the Cake Mix: For a more moist, fruit-infused cake, lightly press the dry cake mix into the fruit layers. This will help it blend better with the filling, creating a soft, cake-like layer.
• Use Canned Fruit: While fresh fruit could work, using canned cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple ensures consistency and ease in preparation.

Praise:

• Quick and Easy: This cake is perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings. It takes only about 15 minutes to prepare and bakes up in less than an hour.
• Versatile: You can change up the toppings or use different fruit fillings to create your own variations. Peach, apple, or blueberry pie filling would all work wonderfully in place of the cherry.

FAQ About Cherry Dump Cake with Pineapple

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but it’s important to chop it into small pieces and drain it well to avoid adding too much moisture to the cake.

How do I store leftover dump cake?

Store leftover dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served within the first two days to maintain its freshness.

Can I freeze cherry dump cake with pineapple?

Although this cake is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers. Freeze individual portions in an airtight container and reheat them in the microwave for a quick treat.

Can I use a different cake mix?

Yes! You can use a white cake mix or even a spice cake mix to give the dump cake a different flavor profile. However, the yellow cake mix is the most common choice for this recipe.

Can I add other fruits to the recipe?

Feel free to experiment with adding other fruits to the cherry and pineapple mix. Peaches, apples, or even a combination of berries would be delicious!

Conclusion

This cherry dump cake recipe with pineapple is a classic, easy dessert that’s perfect for almost any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick treat, this dump cake is sure to impress. With just four main ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering dessert in less than 90 minutes. The combination of sweet cherries, tangy pineapple, and a buttery cake topping creates a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Try it today and see why this simple dump cake is a family favorite!