Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert—cherry pineapple dump cake! This cake is the epitome of simple yet scrumptious. Honestly, it’s one of those recipes that makes you look like a total rockstar in the kitchen without breaking a sweat. All you need are a few pantry staples and about an hour of your time, and you’ll have a warm, gooey, sweet treat that’s just bursting with flavor. I whip this up for family gatherings, potlucks, or even just when I need a little pick-me-up. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked too!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 can cherry pie filling (21 oz)
- 1 can crushed pineapple (20 oz, drained)
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick, melted)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
How to Prepare Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake
Making cherry pineapple dump cake is as easy as pie—literally! Once you gather your ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how quickly this comes together. Let’s dive into the steps!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully while baking. Plus, it creates that perfect golden crust on top. So don’t skip this step—it makes a world of difference!
Layering the Ingredients
Next, grab your trusty 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom. This fruity layer is where the magic starts! Then, take your drained crushed pineapple and layer it right on top of the cherries. Trust me, the combination is heavenly! Just make sure it’s spread out nicely so every bite gets that delightful fruity goodness.
Adding the Cake Mix and Butter
Now for the fun part—grab your box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the fruit layers. This is where it might get a bit messy, but that’s all part of the charm! Make sure to cover all the fruit so it cooks evenly. Once that’s done, drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix. You want it to be nice and even, so every bite has that buttery flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, toss on some chopped nuts for a little crunch!
Baking Instructions
Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly. Take it out, let it cool for a few minutes, and then dig in! Seriously, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone running to the table!
Nutritional Information
Now, just a quick note before we dive into the numbers: the nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I’ll give you some typical values, keep in mind that they might not be exact. But here’s what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Sugar: 20g
So, there you have it! This cherry pineapple dump cake is definitely a treat, but hey, it’s all about balance, right? Enjoy it as part of a delicious dessert experience!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for those busy weeknights!
- Minimal ingredients mean less fuss and more fun in the kitchen.
- A delightful combination of sweet cherries and tropical pineapple that’s simply irresistible.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser! Everyone will be asking for seconds (or thirds!).
- No fancy skills needed—if you can layer and sprinkle, you can make this cake!
- It’s a versatile recipe; feel free to swap in your favorite fruit fillings!
- Serves a crowd, making it ideal for potlucks and family gatherings.
- Best enjoyed warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your cherry pineapple dump cake turns out absolutely amazing! Here are some of my favorite tips to help you achieve dessert perfection:
- Use Quality Ingredients: Since this cake relies heavily on just a few components, using good-quality cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple can really elevate the flavor. I love going for brands that use real fruit whenever possible!
- Mix Up the Flavors: Don’t hesitate to get creative! You can swap the cherry pie filling for blueberry, peach, or even apple. The crushed pineapple adds a delightful moisture, so it works beautifully with many fruits.
- Chill Your Ingredients: For an even more indulgent cake, try chilling your butter before melting it. It might sound fancy, but it gives the cake a richer taste!
- Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. If the top starts browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil to prevent burning while the center finishes cooking.
- Serve It Right: This dump cake is best served warm, so don’t rush to cut into it straight out of the oven. Let it set for about 10 minutes—this helps the layers meld together beautifully.
- Garnish with Love: You can’t go wrong with toppings! A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream adds a lovely creaminess that pairs perfectly with the fruity flavors.
- Make It a Breakfast Treat: Leftovers? No problem! This cake makes for a fun breakfast treat. Just warm a piece up in the microwave and enjoy a slice of sweet nostalgia with your morning coffee.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress your friends and family with this delightful cherry pineapple dump cake! Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious cherry pineapple dump cake, let’s talk about how to elevate your dessert experience! Trust me, a few simple additions can take it from great to absolutely unforgettable.
- Whipped Cream: A generous dollop of freshly whipped cream on top is a must! The light, airy texture balances the cake’s sweetness perfectly.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: If you really want to indulge, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream mingles with the warm, fruity cake, creating a heavenly experience!
- Drizzle of Caramel Sauce: For a touch of decadence, drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the top. It adds a lovely richness that pairs beautifully with the fruit flavors.
- Fresh Fruit: Slice up some fresh strawberries or bananas to accompany your cake. They add a refreshing contrast and make your plate look extra inviting!
- Coffee or Tea: Don’t forget to serve a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea alongside. It’s the perfect way to round out your dessert experience and make it feel special.
Mix and match these serving suggestions to create your own delightful dessert spread! Each bite will be a little celebration of flavors, and I guarantee everyone will be asking for your secret recipe!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep that cherry pineapple dump cake fresh and delicious! If you happen to have any leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is a bit of a miracle), here’s how to store them properly:
- Cooling: First, make sure your cake has cooled completely before storing it. This helps prevent condensation in your storage container, which can make the cake soggy.
- Airtight Container: Transfer the leftover cake into an airtight container. If you don’t have one, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Just make sure it’s sealed well to keep out any unwanted air.
- Refrigeration: Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s the best way to keep it tasting fresh and fruity!
Now, if you’re ready to dive back into that tasty treat, here’s how to reheat it:
- Microwave: For a quick fix, pop a slice in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t get too hot! You want it warm, not steaming.
- Oven: If you’re looking to reheat the whole dish, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes. This method helps to maintain that delicious texture and flavor.
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating instructions, you can enjoy your cherry pineapple dump cake for days to come. It’s just as delightful the next day, so don’t hesitate to dig in again!
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Absolutely! While I love the convenience of canned fruit, you can use fresh cherries and pineapples if you prefer. Just make sure to slice and prepare them properly, and don’t forget to adjust the sugar slightly if your fresh fruit isn’t as sweet!
What if I don’t have yellow cake mix?
No worries! You can use any flavor of cake mix you have on hand. Chocolate, white, or even spice cake mixes can create a delicious twist on this cherry pineapple dump cake. Experiment and see what you love!
Can I make this dump cake ahead of time?
You sure can! This cherry pineapple dump cake is perfect for making a day in advance. Just bake it, let it cool, and then cover it tightly in the fridge. It tastes fantastic even after a night in the refrigerator!
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
You’ll want to look for that beautiful golden brown top that’s bubbly and slightly crispy. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking!
Can I freeze cherry pineapple dump cake?
Yes! If you have leftovers, you can freeze the cake. Just make sure it’s completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It should keep well in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake: 7 Tips for Sweet Success
- Temps Total: 1 hour
- Rendement: 12 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
A simple and delicious cherry pineapple dump cake that requires minimal effort.
Ingrédients
- 1 can cherry pie filling (21 oz)
- 1 can crushed pineapple (20 oz, drained)
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick, melted)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the cherry pie filling evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer the crushed pineapple over the cherry filling.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the fruit layers.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix.
- Top with chopped nuts if desired.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Feel free to substitute with other fruit fillings.
- Temps De Préparation: 10 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 50 minutes
- Catégorie: Dessert
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 piece
- Calories: 300
- Sucre: 20g
- De Sodium: 250mg
- La graisse: 15g
- Graisses Saturées: 7g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 8g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 40g
- La fibre: 1g
- La protéine: 3g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 30mg
Mots-clés: cherry pineapple dump cake, dessert, easy cake recipe
