🍒🍍 Magical Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake
A dessert that feels like a little bit of kitchen magic—no mixers, no complicated steps, just simple layering and a beautiful transformation in the oven. This dump cake is the kind of recipe that reminds you why easy baking can still be incredibly satisfying. Sweet cherries, tangy pineapple, and a buttery golden topping come together into a warm, comforting treat that’s perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself 😄).
If you enjoy simple, quick bakes like your favorite Death by Chocolate Dump Cake, this one will absolutely become another go-to in your kitchen.
✨ Introduction
The “dump cake” gets its name from the method—everything is simply dumped into a dish and baked. No mixing bowls, no fuss. Despite its simplicity, the result is a dessert with layers of flavor and texture:
- Juicy fruit base
- Soft, slightly gooey center
- Crisp, buttery top
This cherry pineapple version adds a tropical twist to a classic comfort dessert.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
Optional Add-ins (for extra magic):
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F)
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish
Step 2: Layer the Fruit
- Spread the cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom
- Pour the crushed pineapple (with juice) over the cherries
- Gently spread to create an even layer
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
- Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit
- Do not mix
Step 4: Add Butter
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix
- Try to cover as much of the surface as possible
Step 5: Bake
- Bake for 45–55 minutes
- Top should be golden brown and slightly crisp
Step 6: Cool & Serve
- Let cool for 10–15 minutes before serving
- Serve warm for best flavor
🍰 Methods & Tips for Success
1. Even Butter Distribution
Make sure the butter covers most of the cake mix—this ensures a crispy, golden top instead of dry patches.
2. Don’t Stir!
Layering is key. Mixing will change the texture completely.
3. Texture Control
- Want it crispier? Add a little extra butter
- Want it softer? Use slightly less
4. Flavor Boost Ideas
- Add coconut flakes for a tropical twist
- Mix almond extract into the cherries for a bakery-style flavor
📜 History of Dump Cake
Dump cakes became popular in the United States during the mid-20th century, when convenience baking rose with the introduction of boxed cake mixes. Inspired by cobblers and crisps, this dessert offered a shortcut version that anyone could make.
It’s often compared to fruit cobblers but requires far less effort—making it a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and quick dessert nights.
🧪 Formation (What Happens While Baking)
This is where the magic happens:
- The fruit layer heats and bubbles, creating a syrupy base
- The cake mix absorbs moisture from the fruit and butter
- The butter helps the top crisp and brown
The result is a dessert with three natural layers:
- Juicy fruit bottom
- Soft cake-like middle
- Crisp, buttery topping
❤️ Why People Love This Cake
- ✔️ Only 4 main ingredients
- ✔️ No mixing required
- ✔️ Perfect balance of sweet & tangy
- ✔️ Great for beginners and busy days
It’s the kind of dessert that disappears quickly—just like your weekly cloud cake 😉
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream
- Add whipped cream for a lighter touch
- Pair with coffee or tea for a cozy treat
💛 Conclusion
Magical Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake proves that you don’t need complicated steps to create something truly delicious. With just a few pantry staples and almost no effort, you get a dessert that feels homemade, comforting, and full of flavor.
Whether you’re baking for guests, family, or just yourself, this is one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again.
If you want, I can give you a chocolate version, a tropical coconut twist, or even a no-butter lighter version next 🍰