Sweet, Buttery, and Incredibly Easy Dessert

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s practically foolproof, this Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake is the perfect choice. Made with just a handful of pantry staples, this classic dessert combines juicy crushed pineapple, sweet cherry pie filling, buttery cake mix, and crunchy pecans (optional) into one irresistible treat. There’s no mixing bowl required—just layer the ingredients, bake, and enjoy!

Whether you’re making dessert for a family dinner, potluck, holiday gathering, or simply craving something sweet, this dump cake always delivers.

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake

• Only 5 simple ingredients
• No mixing required
• Perfect beginner-friendly dessert
• Ready in about an hour
• Sweet, buttery, and fruity
• Great for holidays, BBQs, and potlucks
• Delicious served warm with vanilla ice cream

Ingredients

• 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
• 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted (or thinly sliced)
• ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving

Kitchen Tools

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Measuring cup
• Spoon or spatula
• Oven

How to Make Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Add the Pineapple

Pour the entire can of crushed pineapple (including the juice) into the baking dish.

Spread it evenly across the bottom.

Step 3: Add the Cherry Pie Filling

Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the pineapple layer.

Do not stir the layers together.

Step 4: Sprinkle the Cake Mix

Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the fruit.

Make sure the entire surface is covered.

Do not mix.

Step 5: Add Butter and Pecans

Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix.

Try to cover as much of the dry mix as possible.

Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top if using.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until:

• The top is golden brown
• The edges are bubbling
• The butter has fully absorbed into the cake mix

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the dump cake to cool for 10–15 minutes.

Serve warm with:

• Vanilla ice cream
• Whipped cream
• Fresh cherries
• Toasted pecans

Tips for the Best Dump Cake

• Don’t stir the fruit and cake mix together.
• Spread the butter evenly to avoid dry patches.
• Use unsalted butter for the best flavor.
• Add shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
• Sprinkle cinnamon over the cake mix for extra warmth.
• Let the cake rest before serving so it sets slightly.

Variations

Tropical Version

Add:

• ½ cup shredded coconut
• Chopped macadamia nuts

Crunchy Version

Top with:

• Pecans
• Walnuts
• Sliced almonds

Extra Fruity

Mix in:

• Mandarin oranges
• Fresh pineapple chunks
• Blueberries

Chocolate Twist

Sprinkle white chocolate chips over the fruit before adding the cake mix.

What to Serve With

• Vanilla ice cream
• Fresh whipped cream
• Caramel sauce
• Cream cheese frosting
• Hot coffee
• Sweet tea

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Reheating

• Microwave: Heat individual servings for 20–30 seconds.
• Oven: Warm at 325°F for 10–15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called a dump cake?

Because you simply “dump” the ingredients into the baking dish in layers without mixing.

Can I use fresh pineapple?

Yes, but add about ¼ cup pineapple juice to replace the liquid from canned pineapple.

Can I make it ahead?

Absolutely! Bake it a day in advance and warm it before serving.

Why are there dry spots on top?

The butter didn’t fully cover the cake mix. Drizzle evenly or use thin butter slices across the surface.

Can I use white cake mix?

Yes. White, yellow, butter golden, or French vanilla cake mixes all work well.

Final Thoughts

Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake is one of those timeless desserts that never goes out of style. The combination of sweet cherries, juicy pineapple, buttery cake topping, and crunchy pecans creates a comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.