A Sweet Slice of Summer: Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake

There’s something magical about the way summer desserts bring people together. Maybe it’s the sun-kissed fruit or the way a warm, gooey cake seems to slow time just a little. This Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is one of those recipes that feels like a hug from Grandma—simple, comforting, and bursting with nostalgia. I first had it at a backyard potluck years ago, where it disappeared faster than the fireflies at dusk. The hostess laughed and said, “Honey, the secret is in the name—just dump it all in!” And she was right. This cake is effortless, but the flavors? Pure sunshine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple – Don’t drain it! That sweet-tart juice is the soul of this cake.
• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling – Look for the kind with plump, dark cherries for the prettiest swirls.
• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix – The classic choice, but spice cake mix works beautifully for a cozy twist.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter – Cold, thinly sliced. Trust me, this creates those irresistible buttery pockets.
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional) – For a tropical crunch. My Aunt Mae swears by it!
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) – Because everything’s better with a little crunch.

Let’s Bake Some Magic

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish—no need to grease it. (Yes, really! The fruit keeps it from sticking.) Here’s where the “dump” part comes in:

1. Layer the fruit: Spread the crushed pineapple (juice and all) evenly across the bottom of the dish. Dollop the cherry pie filling over the top, then gently swirl the two together with a spoon—just enough to marble them, not mix completely. Those ruby streaks are half the charm!
2. Blanket with cake mix: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the fruit layer. No stirring! This creates that crave-worthy crispy topping. If you’re using coconut or nuts, now’s the time to scatter them over the cake mix.
3. Butter it up: Arrange the thin butter slices across the top, spacing them like little polka dots. As it bakes, the butter will melt into golden pools, crisping the cake mix into a delicate crust.

Now, slide it into the oven and let the magic happen. In about 45 minutes, your kitchen will smell like a summer fair. But before we get to the grand finale—because every good story needs a little suspense—let me share a secret: this cake is even better with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting lazily over the top…

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

This Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is wonderfully forgiving, but here are a few ways to make it even better:

• Butter it up: For extra richness, dot the top with an additional 2-3 tablespoons of cold butter before baking.
• Spice it up: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix for a warm, cozy flavor.
• Fruit swaps: Swap the cherry pie filling for blueberry or apple, or use crushed pineapple in juice for a lighter version.
• Nuts or coconut: Stir in ½ cup chopped pecans or shredded coconut with the cake mix for added texture.

What to Serve With Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake

This dessert is heavenly all on its own, but if you want to take it over the top, try pairing it with:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream (the classic choice!)
• Freshly whipped cream or coconut whipped cream
• A drizzle of caramel sauce for extra decadence
• A cup of hot coffee or tea to balance the sweetness

Storage and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep your dump cake tasting fresh:

• Room temperature: Cover tightly and store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or reheat the whole dish in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Absolutely! Use about 2 cups of fresh or frozen cherries and 1 cup of diced pineapple. Just toss them with a little sugar and cornstarch to thicken the juices.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free version and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free.

Why is my dump cake dry?
This usually happens if the butter isn’t evenly distributed. Make sure to spread the cake mix evenly and dot the butter all over the top.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can assemble the cake a few hours before baking and keep it covered in the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

A Sweet Ending

There’s something so comforting about a dessert that comes together with minimal effort but delivers maximum joy. This Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is the perfect treat for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you need a little taste of sunshine. The tangy pineapple and sweet cherries meld together under that golden, buttery topping, creating a dessert that feels like a hug in every bite. I hope it brings as much happiness to your table as it does to mine!

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