Super easy fruity dessert

Imagine the perfect intersection of effortless and delicious – that's exactly what this cherry pineapple dump cake delivers. Sweet-tart cherries and juicy pineapple create a fruity foundation that bubbles up through a golden, buttery crust that forms as it bakes. The contrast between the jammy fruit layer and the crisp, cake-like topping creates an irresistible texture experience in every bite. Best of all, this impressive dessert comes together with just four ingredients and about five minutes of hands-on time, making it the perfect solution when you need something sweet without any fuss.

I made this dump cake for my sister's potluck birthday celebration last summer when I was short on time but still wanted to bring something homemade. It received more compliments than the fancy store-bought cake! My nephew, who typically avoids fruit desserts, asked for seconds and then requested I make it for his graduation party. Even my mother-in-law, who prides herself on her complex baking projects, asked for the recipe – though she seemed slightly disappointed at how simple it was. The best moment was watching my friend's face when I explained how I made it – complete disbelief that something so delicious could be so easy.

Essential Ingredients

• Cherry pie filling: Creates a bright, sweet-tart layer that bubbles up through the cake; look for premium brands with whole cherries and avoid "lite" versions that can be watery. 1 can (21 ounces) needed.
• Crushed pineapple: The tropical sweetness balances the tart cherries while its juice infuses the entire cake with moisture and flavor; never drain it as the liquid is crucial to the recipe. 1 can (20 ounces) needed.
• Yellow cake mix: Forms a magical, buttery crust without any mixing; choose brands without pudding in the mix for the best texture. 1 box (15.25 ounces) needed.
• Butter: Transforms the dry cake mix into a golden, crispy topping as it bakes; using sliced butter rather than melted ensures even coverage and perfect texture. 12 tablespoons (1½ sticks) needed.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare your baking dish properly

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray, coating the bottom and slightly up the sides to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create the fruit foundation

Pour 1 can (20 ounces) undrained crushed pineapple into the dish, spreading evenly. Pour 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling over the pineapple, keeping layers separate.

Step 3: Apply the cake mix with precision

Sprinkle 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit, covering the entire surface without pressing or mixing. Gently spread any thick spots.

Step 4: Position the butter strategically

Slice 12 tablespoons (1½ sticks) cold unsalted butter into ⅛-inch thick pats. Arrange evenly in rows across the cake mix, covering as much surface as possible.

Step 5: Bake to golden perfection

Bake for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and fruit filling bubbles around the edges. Check at 35 minutes, as ovens vary.

Step 6: Cool slightly before serving

Cool for 15 minutes to let fruit settle and layers set, keeping the cake warm for serving.

Step 7: Serve with complementary toppings

Scoop into bowls, top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, and optionally sprinkle with sliced almonds or powdered sugar.

Step 8: Store leftovers properly

Cover cooled cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3-4 days. Reheat servings in the microwave for 30 seconds if desired.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly chaotic time when my twins were toddlers and fancy baking was a distant memory. What started as an act of dessert desperation became our family's most-requested treat. My daughter now helps place the butter slices in perfect rows, claiming her technique makes the cake taste better. My husband, who grew up with a grandmother known for her scratch-made pies, surprisingly prefers this simple dump cake, especially cold from the refrigerator for breakfast (don't tell the nutrition police!). I've made it so often that I keep the ingredients on hand at all times for last-minute company or dessert emergencies.

Perfect Pairing Suggestions

Serve with vanilla ice cream for a classic à la mode experience, or try butter pecan or coconut ice cream for nutty or tropical notes. For brunch, pair with sweetened mascarpone cheese drizzled with honey for a sophisticated touch.

Seasonal and Holiday Adaptations

For Christmas, add 1 teaspoon almond extract over the fruit and garnish with sugared cranberries. In summer, serve with fresh berries. For fall, drizzle warm servings with caramel sauce for an autumnal touch.

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Make-Ahead and Serving Options

Assemble up to 24 hours ahead, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding 5 minutes. Double the recipe for large gatherings, using two pans, or vary fruit combinations.

I've made this cherry pineapple dump cake for everything from casual family dinners to holiday gatherings, and it never fails to impress. What I love most about it is how it exemplifies what home cooking is really about – creating moments of joy and connection without unnecessary complication. There's something almost magical about how these simple ingredients transform in the oven into something so much greater than the sum of their parts. When people take that first bite and close their eyes in appreciation, I'm reminded that sometimes the most welcomed dishes aren't the ones that require the most effort, but the ones that deliver pure, uncomplicated pleasure. This humble dump cake has become part of our family's food story – the dessert that's requested for birthdays, the comfort sweet on rainy days, and the reliable star of potlucks that always comes home as an empty dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different fruits in this dump cake?

Absolutely! You can substitute the cherry pie filling with other flavors like blueberry, peach, or apple pie filling. You can also replace the crushed pineapple with other canned fruits like mandarin oranges or fruit cocktail.

→ Do I need to drain the crushed pineapple?

No, do not drain the pineapple. The juice from the pineapple helps create moisture that combines with the cake mix and butter to form the cake-like texture.

→ How do I know when the dump cake is done baking?

The top should be golden brown and mostly set. It's normal for dump cakes to have some areas that look a bit wet and others that are more crisp. The butter should be completely melted and incorporated with the cake mix.

→ How should I store leftover dump cake?

Cover it with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. It can be enjoyed cold or reheated in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds per serving.

→ Can I substitute the butter with something else?

Yes, you can use coconut oil or margarine as alternatives to butter. For a lower-fat version, some people use diet soda (like Diet Sprite or 7UP) poured over the cake mix instead of butter, though this creates a different texture.