Easy Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake is a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing dessert with layers of juicy fruit and golden, buttery cake topping. Made with just a handful of pantry staples and zero mixing, this sweet treat delivers bold flavor and comfort in every bite. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or last-minute cravings, it’s as easy as “dump and bake.”

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

crushed pineapple (with juice)cherry pie fillingyellow cake mixunsalted butter (melted or sliced)cinnamon (optional for extra flavor)chopped pecans or walnuts (optional for crunch)

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Dump the entire can of crushed pineapple with juice into the baking dish and spread evenly.

Spoon the cherry pie filling over the pineapple layer and spread gently.

Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit layers.

Drizzle melted butter evenly over the cake mix, or dot with thin slices of butter to cover most of the surface.

(Optional) Sprinkle cinnamon and chopped nuts on top.

Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Let cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 10–12 servings.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Baking time: 45–50 minutes
Cooling time: 10–15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Use white or spice cake mix for a flavor change.
Swap cherry filling for blueberry or apple.
Add shredded coconut to the topping for a tropical twist.
Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream when serving.

storage/reheating

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30–45 seconds.
Freeze baked cake for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Do I need to mix the ingredients?

No mixing required—just layer and bake.

Can I use fresh fruit?

Canned is preferred for moisture and simplicity, but cooked fresh fruit can work.

What type of butter is best?

Unsalted butter gives you better control over flavor.

Can I use margarine?

Yes, though flavor and texture may differ slightly.

Why is it called a dump cake?

Because you “dump” the ingredients into the pan without mixing.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, bake and refrigerate—reheat before serving.

Is it very sweet?

Yes, it’s a classic sweet dessert—balance with whipped cream or tart fruit if desired.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter alternatives.

Can I bake it in a smaller dish?

Yes, halve the recipe and use an 8×8-inch dish. Adjust baking time slightly.

Does the cake rise?

The dry cake mix forms a crust with the butter and doesn’t rise like traditional cakes.

Conclusion

Easy Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake is the ultimate quick dessert—no mixing, no mess, and all the flavor. With its gooey fruit base and golden buttery topping, it’s a nostalgic, effortless treat that’s sure to impress every time. Just dump, bake, and enjoy!

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