Now, I know what some of you might be thinking. “Can something this simple really taste that good?” Oh, you bet it can. This pineapple dump cake recipe isn’t just about ease; it’s about creating a swoon-worthy dessert that could very well become your go-to for last-minute gatherings or when that sweet tooth strikes out of nowhere.
So, if you’re ready to tackle a dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe), stick around. I’m about to walk you through the steps to create this heavenly cake.
Table of Contents
How to make Pineapple Dump Cake
Pineapple dump cake is a simple dessert that typically consists of just a few ingredients: canned pineapple, yellow cake mix, butter, and sometimes additional ingredients like shredded coconut or chopped nuts.
What You’ll Need:
- One can (20 ounces) of crushed pineapple with juice – This is your star flavor, so make sure it’s invited to the party.
- One can (21 ounces) of cherry pie filling – This adds a gorgeous pop of color and a sweet-tart counterbalance to the pineapple.
- One box of yellow cake mix – No need to mix; just sprinkle it on. Easy, right?
- One cup of butter, melted – Because butter makes everything better.
- Optional goodies: Pecans or walnuts for a crunchy twist and a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving because why not?
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This cake’s going to need a cozy, warm space to get its bake on.
- Layer the Fruit: Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread the cherry pie filling evenly on the bottom. Next, layer the crushed pineapple, along with its juice, on top. The juice is crucial – it’s going to mingle with the cake mix and create magic.
- Add the Cake Mix: Now, sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pineapple. No mixing bowl needed; just let it sit there on top. Weird but trust me.
- Drizzle with Butter: Pour the melted butter over the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the cake mix as possible. This is what gives you that crisp, golden top layer that’s utterly irresistible.
- Bake it Beautiful: Slide your baking dish into the oven and bake for about 50 minutes, or until the top is a beautiful golden brown and the sides are bubbly. Your kitchen is going to smell amazing – consider this a bonus.
- Cool and Serve – Let the cake cool for a bit before you dive in. This is the perfect time to get your vanilla ice cream or whipped cream ready for action.
Pro Tips for Pineapple Dump Cake Perfection:
- Go Nuts: If you’re adding nuts, sprinkle them on top of the cake mix before drizzling with butter. They’ll toast up nicely.
- Mixing it Up: Feel free to swap out the cherry pie filling for another flavor if cherries aren’t your jam. Blueberry pie filling also works wonders.
- Serving Style: Best enjoyed warm with a scoop of ice cream, this cake is also fantastic cold, straight from the fridge. Talk about versatile!
What to serve with
Serving the right accompaniments can transform your cake into an epic dessert that’ll keep your taste buds dancing.
Ice Cream and Whipped Cream
Let’s start with the all-time favorites. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can do wonders for your Pineapple Dump Cake. The coolness and creaminess of vanilla ice cream melt into the warm cake, creating a contrast that’s not only a joy to eat but also soothes the soul. On the other hand, whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that compliments the denseness of the cake beautifully. If you want to get a bit adventurous, try flavored ice cream like coconut to echo the tropical notes of the pineapple.
Nuts
Adding a handful of toasted nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds brings a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that pairs superbly with the fruitiness of the cake. Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and adds a toasty depth to each bite. Just sprinkle them on top before serving, and watch how they add that satisfying crunch.
A Drizzle of Sauce
Think beyond the cake! A drizzle of caramel or butterscotch sauce can elevate your Pineapple Dump Cake into a gourmet dessert. The rich, sweet flavors of these sauces complement the tangy pineapple, making every bite decadently delicious. Not a fan of caramel? No problem. How about a raspberry sauce for a pop of tartness that cuts through the sweetness? Divine!
Fresh Fruit and Berries
Fresh fruits and berries aren’t just healthy; they’re also a refreshing sidekick to your cake. Slices of fresh mango, peach, or even a few fresh berries can add a fresh zest and make your dish visually appealing. Plus, the slight acidity of these fruits will balance out the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
Cheese Pairing
If you’re into trying something uniquely flavorful, serve your Pineapple Dump Cake with a side of soft cheese like mascarpone or a mildly tangy cream cheese. This might sound a bit out there, but the creaminess of the cheese combined with the sweet, fruity cake creates a symphony of flavors in your mouth.
Beverage Pairings
Let’s not forget about what to drink. A simple dessert wine, like a Riesling or even a sparkling Moscato, can complement the sweetness of the cake without overpowering it. Prefer something non-alcoholic? A nice cup of lightly brewed tea, such as chamomile or green tea, can be a light, refreshing way to wash down the cake.
Ingredients Substitutes
When it comes to making Pineapple Dump Cake, we all know life (or the pantry) doesn’t always hand us what we need. No sweat, though. I’ve got some neat swap ideas that’ll keep your baking adventure on track, no matter what ingredients you’re missing.
No Pineapple? No Problem!
So you’re all set to make that cake, but realize you’re out of pineapple. Don’t let that stop you. A great substitute is canned peach or apricot in juice. These fruits bring their own sweet and tangy flavor that complements the cake mix just as beautifully. The texture might be a bit different, but hey, variety is the spice of life, right?
Cherry Pie Filling Alternatives
Cherry pie filling adds a beautiful color and a tart contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple. If you don’t have it on hand or just want to try something new, pretty much any canned pie filling will do the trick. Blueberry or apple pie filling can be amazing alternatives. Each brings its unique twist to the cake, transforming the flavor profile in exciting ways.
Switching Up the Cake Mix
The base of this cake usually calls for a yellow cake mix, which offers a lovely balance of vanilla and buttery flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous or simply don’t have a yellow cake mix in the pantry, no worries. A white cake mix can be a perfect substitute, keeping the cake light and fluffy. Or, for a bolder taste, try a spice cake mix to add a warm, cozy feel to the dessert, especially perfect for the cooler months.
Butter Substitutes
Butter gives the cake that irresistible golden top and rich flavor. If you’re out or need a non-dairy option, there are plenty of choices. Coconut oil is a fantastic one-to-one substitute, adding a subtle coconut flavor that pairs wonderfully with the fruit. Or, for something a bit different, try using apple sauce. It’s not only a healthier option but also keeps the cake moist. Just keep in mind the top might not get as crispy.
Extras for Added Flair
Toppings and add-ins can really elevate your Pineapple Dump Cake. If the recipe calls for nuts and you either don’t have them or are catering to allergies, consider toasted oats or a crumble made from flour, sugar, and oil or butter. It gives you that crunchy texture without the nuts. And for an ice cream topping, a nice dollop of Greek yoghurt with a drizzle of honey can be a delightful, tangier substitute.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – your guide to making a drool-worthy pineapple dump cake that’ll make you the hero of any dessert table. It’s easy, it’s delicious, and let’s be honest, it’s fun to say.
More Cake Recipes:
Ingredients
- One can (20 ounces) of crushed pineapple with juice – This is your star flavor, so make sure it's invited to the party.
- One can (21 ounces) of cherry pie filling – This adds a gorgeous pop of color and a sweet-tart counterbalance to the pineapple.
- One box of yellow cake mix – No need to mix; just sprinkle it on. Easy, right?
- One cup of butter, melted – Because butter makes everything better.
- Optional goodies: Pecans or walnuts for a crunchy twist and a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving because why not?
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This cake's going to need a cozy, warm space to get its bake on.
- Layer the Fruit: Grab a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread the cherry pie filling evenly on the bottom. Next, layer the crushed pineapple, along with its juice, on top. The juice is crucial – it's going to mingle with the cake mix and create magic.
- Add the Cake Mix: Now, sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pineapple. No mixing bowl needed; just let it sit there on top. Weird but trust me.
- Drizzle with Butter: Pour the melted butter over the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the cake mix as possible. This is what gives you that crisp, golden top layer that's utterly irresistible.
- Bake it Beautiful: Slide your baking dish into the oven and bake for about 50 minutes, or until the top is a beautiful golden brown and the sides are bubbly. Your kitchen is going to smell amazing – consider this a bonus.
- Cool and Serve – Let the cake cool for a bit before you dive in. This is the perfect time to get your vanilla ice cream or whipped cream ready for action.
