If there’s something irresistibly delightful about dessert, it’s the blend of flavors and textures that create a memorable taste experience. The Easy Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake Recipe is one such magic creation that effortlessly captivates your senses. Imagine the tropical sweetness of pineapple mingling with the rich tartness of cherries, all enveloped by a soft, buttery cake. It’s a dream come true for dessert lovers, especially given its ease of preparation. Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or just indulging in a sweet treat, this dump cake is a testament to simplicity and divine taste.
What makes this dessert even more enticing is its straightforward approach. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a dessert that’s as impressive as it is tasty. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is adored not just for its flavors but also for its simplicity. No need for fancy tools or elaborate techniques, just pure, delicious goodness in every bite. Are you ready to dive into the flavors of this dessert and discover the ease of making it? Let’s explore how this effortless treat can become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: No complicated steps or techniques, just simple layering of ingredients.
- Minimal Ingredients: Requires only a few basic pantry ingredients, saving time and effort.
- Versatile and Suitable for All Occasions: Perfect for casual gatherings or formal events.
- Delightful Taste: Offers a blend of sweet, tart, and buttery flavors with a crunchy top.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with nuts and other toppings for personal preferences.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you delve into the creation of this delicious dessert, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and workspace for a smooth baking experience. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F to ensure it’s perfectly heated by the time you’re ready to bake. Next, gather a 9×13-inch baking dish as your primary tool for this recipe. A well-greased baking dish is crucial to prevent sticking, so lightly oil or spray it with non-stick spray. Arrange your ingredients on a clean workspace for better accessibility and efficiency.
Ensure you have a can opener ready, as you’ll need it for the canned pineapple and cherry pie filling. A spatula or spoon would be handy for spreading and layering the ingredients evenly. For the final touch, a knife is needed to slice the butter into thin pats. Make sure all these tools are within reach to maintain the rhythm of your dessert assembly. Now, prepare yourself for an enjoyable cooking session as we head into one of the most straightforward baking experiences.
Ingredients
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), sliced into thin pats
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Set the Stage
Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F, ensuring it’s ready for the cake to go in without delay. This helps in achieving an even bake.
Step 2: Layer and Spread
Pour the entire can of crushed pineapple along with its juice into the greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to form the base layer, which will absorb the flavors beautifully.
Step 3: Add a Cherry Twist
Without mixing, gently spoon the cherry pie filling over the pineapple layer. This step adds a vibrant sweetness and color contrast to the dessert.
Step 4: The Cake Cover
Take the dry yellow cake mix and distribute it evenly across the fruit layers, covering the surface entirely for a consistent texture.
Step 5: Butter It Up
Top the layered ingredients with thin slices of butter, strategically placing them across the dish for even melting and browning. Optionally, sprinkle the nuts on top for extra crunch and flavor.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns golden brown and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving, enabling the layers to set. Enjoy this delightful dessert warm or at room temperature.
Variations
- Protein: Add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on top for a creamy protein kick.
- Vegetables: For a tangy twist, incorporate shredded carrots into the pineapple layer.
- Spices: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- If using salted butter, reduce any additional salt to prevent overwhelming the flavors.
- Ensure even butter distribution; otherwise, some areas might remain dry, lacking moisture and richness.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the dessert’s creamy factor.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a complete dessert experience.
Tips
- Ensure the cake mix is spread evenly across the fruit for consistent baking and texture.
- Use unsalted butter to control the overall saltiness of the dish, highlighting the natural sweetness of the fruits.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approx. 340 per serving
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 370mg
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?
Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but consider cooking them down with some sugar to mimic the consistency of the canned filling.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely, this cake can be prepped and refrigerated a day in advance. Simply bake right before serving for best results.
What other fruits could be used?
Peaches and blueberries make great alternatives, adding their own unique flavors to the dessert.
How to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
The Easy Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake Recipe transcends ordinary desserts with its simplicity and delightful flavors. It’s an accessible indulgence that caters to both novice bakers and seasoned dessert aficionados. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is eye-catching. Whether for a spontaneous dessert craving or a planned feast, this dump cake promises accolades from every guest who savors it. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations and share your results in the comments — after all, the best recipes are those we enjoy together and adapt to our tastes. Happy Baking!
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Easy Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
The Easy Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake transcends ordinary desserts with its simplicity and delightful flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), sliced into thin pats
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F, ensuring it’s ready for the cake to go in without delay.
- Pour the entire can of crushed pineapple along with its juice into the greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to form the base layer.
- Without mixing, gently spoon the cherry pie filling over the pineapple layer.
- Take the dry yellow cake mix and distribute it evenly across the fruit layers.
- Top the layered ingredients with thin slices of butter, strategically placing them across the dish.
- Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 to 50 minutes.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving, enabling the layers to set.
Notes
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the dessert’s creamy factor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Sodium: 370 mg
- Protein: 2 g