Looking for a quick and tasty dessert? My Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is just the answer! This delightful treat combines sweet cherry pie filling and juicy crushed pineapple, layered with yellow cake mix for a simple yet indulgent dessert. Whether you are a baking pro or a beginner, this cake is easy to whip up. Let’s dive into the details and make a dessert you’ll love serving!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake
– 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
– 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
– 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
I love using simple ingredients for this dessert. The cherry pie filling gives a sweet and tart flavor. The crushed pineapple adds a juicy twist. Together, they create a tasty base. The yellow cake mix makes it easy to bake. Just sprinkle it on top without mixing. Finally, melted butter helps form a golden, crunchy layer.
Optional Ingredients
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
These optional ingredients can boost flavor and texture. Adding coconut gives a tropical taste. Nuts add a nice crunch. A dash of vanilla can make it smell amazing. Feel free to mix and match these extras based on your taste.
Serving Suggestions
– Whipped cream
– Vanilla ice cream
When serving, I recommend adding whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Both options make this dessert even more delightful. The creaminess contrasts well with the fruit and cake. Enjoying it warm heightens the flavors. For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of nuts or coconut on top!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This warms the oven for even baking.
– Prepare the baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This step keeps the cake from sticking.
Layering the Ingredients
– Spread cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. This is the sweet base.
– Add the drained crushed pineapple on top of the cherry filling. This gives a nice, juicy layer.
– Sprinkle the yellow cake mix over the fruit layers. Do not mix it in; it will form the topping.
– Drizzle the melted butter all over the cake mix. This will create a crunchy topping as it bakes.
Baking Tips
– Bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown. You want it bubbly and crisp.
– Allow cooling time before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut.
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring the Perfect Bake
To check if your cake is done, look for a golden top. Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready! If it has batter on it, bake a few more minutes.
Even distribution of ingredients is key. Spread the cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple evenly in the pan. This ensures every bite is full of flavor. A good spread helps the cake bake evenly.
Flavor Enhancements
For a twist, try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. These spices add warmth and depth to the cake. They blend well with the sweet cherries and tangy pineapple.
Using fresh fruits can enhance the taste. Fresh cherries and pineapples have a bright flavor. If you use canned fruits, make sure to drain them well. This prevents excess liquid, which can make the cake soggy.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Garnish your cake with fresh mint leaves for a splash of color. You can also sprinkle some toasted coconut or nuts on top. These add texture and make the cake look fancy.
The best serving temperature is warm. Serve it right out of the oven or let it cool for ten minutes. Top each slice with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra delight. For the full experience, enjoy it warm!
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can make this treat fit your needs with simple swaps. For those avoiding gluten, look for gluten-free cake mixes. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill offer tasty options that work well in this recipe.
If you prefer vegan options, replace the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter. Use a vegan cake mix too. Many brands have options that are both tasty and satisfying.
Flavor Variations
Want to mix things up? Try different fruit fillings! You can use peach or blueberry for a fresh twist. Each fruit brings a new flavor to your cake.
You can also switch up the cake mix flavor. Chocolate cake mix adds a rich, decadent taste. Lemon cake mix gives a bright and zesty touch. Experiment to find your favorite.
Toppings and Add-ons
For a gourmet touch, consider unique toppings. Drizzle caramel sauce or chocolate syrup over the top. This adds sweetness and style to your cake.
Seasonal fruits can also make your dessert shine. In summer, fresh berries work great. In fall, try adding chopped apples or pears for a cozy flavor. These variations keep the cake exciting and fun to enjoy.
Storage Info
Refrigerator Storage
To store leftovers, cover the Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake tightly with plastic wrap. This keeps it fresh and moist. You can also use an airtight container. The cake stays good in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake, let it cool completely first. Then, cut it into slices. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, remove a slice and let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, the best method is using the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. This method helps maintain the cake’s texture and flavor. You can also microwave slices for about 30 seconds. Enjoy your warm cake with whipped cream or ice cream!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I make Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this cake ahead of time. Prepare it and bake it as usual. Let it cool, then cover and store it in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to serve, warm it in the oven for a few minutes. This keeps the flavors fresh and the texture nice.
Is it possible to use fresh cherries and pineapples?
Yes, you can use fresh fruits. For cherries, pit and halve them. For pineapples, chop them into small pieces. Fresh fruit adds a bright flavor. Just remember to adjust the amount of sugar based on sweetness.
Cooking and Baking Questions
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can also insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid overbaking.
Can I use a different size baking dish?
Yes, you can. If you use a smaller dish, the cake may take longer to bake. A larger dish will make a thinner cake that bakes faster. Adjust the baking time as needed based on the size of your dish.
Diet and Allergen FAQs
Is Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, you can make it gluten-free. Just choose a gluten-free cake mix. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious treat.
What nut-free options can be used in this recipe?
If you want a nut-free cake, simply skip the nuts. You can add more coconut for texture. You can also use seeds like sunflower seeds as a crunchy alternative. This keeps the cake tasty for those with nut allergies.
For the full recipe, check out the earlier section!
This cherry pineapple dump cake is a simple yet delightful dessert. We covered key ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips. You can tweak flavors and toppings to make it your own. Remember to store leftovers properly to enjoy later. With each bite, you can savor the delicious mix of cherries and pineapple. Try it for your next gathering, and it is sure to impress! Enjoy baking and sharing this sweet treat with friends and family.
