Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a luscious, fuss-free dessert that will steal the show at any gathering, look no further than Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake. This classic American treat manages to be effortlessly easy and utterly indulgent, with layers of juicy fruit and a buttery, golden cake topping. Whether you need a quick bake-sale solution or just something to wow your loved ones at the next family meal, Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake promises maximum flavor with minimal effort—and it’s downright addicting warm from the oven!

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the many beauties of Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is that it truly lets each ingredient shine, requiring just a handful of pantry staples. These simple, reliable items come together to create a dessert that is far more than the sum of its parts—each adds body, color, and bright pops of flavor you’ll crave again and again.

• Crushed Pineapple (1 20-ounce can): The natural juice keeps the cake moist and infuses every bite with sweet-tart, tropical flavor.
• Cherry Pie Filling (1 21-ounce can): This brings vibrant color and jammy richness, perfectly complementing the pineapple and giving the dessert its signature look.
• Yellow Cake Mix (1 box): Using cake mix saves time, and delivers a perfectly fluffy, buttery topping with zero fuss.
• Butter (12 tablespoons, cut into 24 slices): Sliced and scattered on top, this melts as the cake bakes for a golden, crisp finish and irresistible taste.

How to Make Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Give a 9 x 13-inch baking dish a generous misting with nonstick spray. This simple step ensures your Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake will lift out with ease, leaving every precious crumb intact.

Step 2: Layer the Crushed Pineapple

Pour the entire can of crushed pineapple—with all its juice—right into your prepared baking dish. Gently spread the fruit into an even layer to create a juicy base that keeps the cake beautifully moist, and guarantees pineapple in every spoonful.

Step 3: Add the Cherry Pie Filling

Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the pineapple. Don’t worry about mixing—these two sweet-tart fruits will swirl together as the cake bakes, creating a gorgeous blend of jewel-bright fruit that’s both beautiful and bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Top with Cake Mix

Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit layers. Use clean hands or the back of a spoon to smooth and gently press it down. This step will help create a uniform, golden topping that bakes up crisp at the edges and tender in the middle.

Step 5: Dot with Butter and Bake

Lay the butter slices in a single layer across the top of the cake mix. The butter will melt as the Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake bakes, transforming the dry cake mix into a golden, buttery crust. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, until the top bubbles and glows a deep golden brown. Let it cool just a bit, and serve while warm for ultimate comfort food bliss.

How to Serve Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake

Garnishes

The crowning touch for Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is all about contrast and color. Try adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream just before serving—the creaminess pairs beautifully with the warm, juicy fruit and crunchy topping. For extra flair, sprinkle on some toasted coconut, slivered almonds, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Side Dishes

If you’d like to build a celebratory dessert spread, serve your Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake alongside light treats that complement its richness. A fresh fruit salad, lemon shortbread cookies, or a crisp glass of sparkling wine can turn dessert into an occasion, balancing the sweet and buttery flavors with something cool or citrusy.

Creative Ways to Present

This humble dump cake looks fantastic when served in unexpected ways! Scoop warm portions into individual ramekins for single-servings at dinner parties, or layer chilled slices with whipped cream and extra fruit in parfait glasses for a stunning trifle effect. No matter how you dish it up, you’ll earn rave reviews every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake keeps surprisingly well. Once cooled, cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions into airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to four days, and the flavors will meld together even more over time—making it just as irresistible the next day!

Freezing

If you want to enjoy Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake beyond the first few days, freezing is a fantastic option. Simply let the cake cool completely, wrap it in layers of plastic wrap and foil, or pop single servings into freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before serving for that fresh-baked flavor.

Reheating

For best results, warm individual portions in the microwave in 30-second bursts until heated through. If you’re reheating a larger amount, cover the pan with foil and bake at 325°F until hot. The cake’s buttery, crisp topping and gooey fruit layers come back to life beautifully—especially when topped with ice cream or whipped cream again.

FAQs

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned for this Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to use an equivalent amount of fresh pineapple (with its juice) and plenty of pitted cherries, sweetened to taste. The texture and flavor will be a little brighter and fresher, but you may want to add a splash of extra juice so the cake bakes up moist.

What type of cake mix works best?

Yellow cake mix is classic for Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake because of its rich, buttery flavor and golden color, but you can also try white or even pineapple-flavored cake mix for a twist. Avoid chocolate or spiced varieties, as they’ll overpower the bright fruit flavors.

Does this need to be served warm?

While there’s nothing quite like Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake served fresh and warm from the oven, it’s also delicious at room temperature or chilled. The fruit firms up a bit when cold, making it easy to slice for picnics or potlucks.

Can I make Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute your favorite gluten-free yellow cake mix, and check that your pie filling and crushed pineapple are labeled gluten-free. The dessert turns out wonderfully, with all the same gooey, buttery richness.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

You’ll know your Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is ready when the top is richly golden brown, the butter has melted and bubbled across the surface, and the edges begin to crisp. If you notice any dry patches of cake mix, drizzle a little extra melted butter and bake for a few minutes longer.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a no-fuss dessert that brings joy to every bite, you owe it to yourself to try Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll reach for on both busy weeknights and special occasions—so simple, yet totally unforgettable. Gather your ingredients, invite someone you love to join you, and discover the sweet magic for yourself!

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