Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake

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I still remember the first time I made Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake. It was a casual Saturday afternoon, the kind of day that makes you want something sweet without all the fuss. I reached for what I had in the pantry: canned cherries, crushed pineapple, a box of yellow cake mix. What came out of the oven forty minutes later was pure magic — gooey, golden, fruity magic.

This dump cake isn’t just easy, it’s foolproof. No mixing bowls, no beaters, no fancy techniques. I literally just dumped everything into the baking dish. The cherries bubble up into the cake mix, the pineapple adds brightness, and the butter melts into every corner, creating this crisp, golden crust. It’s one of those desserts that tastes like you spent hours on it, but your kitchen stays clean and your stress stays low.

When I serve this to guests or bring it to a potluck, I always get asked for the recipe. It’s just that good. And if you love recipes that embrace simple ingredients and deliver maximum flavor, this one will become your go-to. Speaking of cozy and sweet treats, if this recipe speaks to you, you might also love my Ooey Gooey Bars or this nostalgic favorite Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler. And for coconut lovers, don’t miss my Cherry-Topped Coconut Macaroons too.

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake

You’ll fall in love with how effortless this dessert is to throw together. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, it’s ideal for those times when you need a last-minute treat. The flavor combination of tart cherries, sweet pineapple, and buttery golden cake is irresistible. Plus, it feeds a crowd, making it perfect for gatherings, holidays, or a casual weekend dessert.

Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake plays an essential role. The cherry pie filling provides that luscious, jammy texture with just enough tartness to balance the sweetness. Crushed pineapple adds a tropical, juicy layer that brightens up every bite. The yellow cake mix is our shortcut to a fluffy, tender topping that absorbs all those fruit juices beautifully. And butter—let’s not forget the butter. Melted over the top, it creates that signature crispy, golden crust that dump cakes are known for.

How to Make Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add the Fruit

Pour the entire can of crushed pineapple (juice included) into the baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Then, spoon the cherry pie filling on top and gently spread to cover the pineapple layer.

Step 3: Add the Cake Mix

Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit layers. Make sure you cover all the fruit, but don’t stir it in — it should sit on top.

Step 4: Top with Butter

Melt your butter and drizzle it evenly across the surface of the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the dry mix as possible to ensure even browning.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling at the edges. Let it cool slightly before serving. It’s fantastic warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

The beauty of Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is in its versatility. You can easily change up the fruit combinations based on what you have on hand. Try using blueberry pie filling with crushed pineapple, or swap the pineapple for mandarin oranges. If you’re feeling adventurous, mix in some shredded coconut or chopped pecans before baking for added texture and flavor.

Don’t have yellow cake mix? White or vanilla cake mix works just as well. You could even go for a spiced cake mix to add a warm, autumnal twist. And if you’re cutting back on butter, try using sliced pats of butter across the top instead of melting — it still creates that golden crust without needing to measure.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake warm, straight from the oven. It’s heavenly on its own but even better with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re serving it at a gathering, offer toppings like toasted coconut or chopped nuts for guests to sprinkle on. For drinks, this dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a light, fruity wine like Moscato.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or warm the entire dish in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes. This cake also tastes great cold, so don’t worry if you can’t reheat it — it still hits the spot.

FAQs

What is Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake?

Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is a super easy dessert made by layering canned cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple, cake mix, and butter in a baking dish and baking it until golden and bubbly.

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

Yes, but you’ll need to add sugar and some liquid to mimic the consistency of canned filling. Fresh fruit might also affect baking time.

How do I make Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free cake mix and substitute plant-based butter or coconut oil. The texture might vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Can I prepare Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake in advance?

Absolutely! Assemble the layers, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve for the best texture.

Is Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze baked portions in airtight containers. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness. It’s a great make-ahead dessert!

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you loved this Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake, you might also enjoy diving into the golden, caramelized crust of my Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler or the chewy decadence of these Ooey Gooey Bars. For coconut and cherry fans, Cherry-Topped Coconut Macaroons are another must-try dessert that hits that perfect sweet spot.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake won your heart, don’t forget to pin it on your favorite dessert board on Pinterest so it’s always at your fingertips. Share it with your family and friends through Facebook, email, or even text — because everyone deserves a slice of this fruity, buttery bliss. Trust me, they’ll thank you!

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