I have a delicious recipe that will become your go-to dessert for gatherings and casual family dinners: the 5-ingredient Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe. This cake is unusual in that the name does not say much about its scrumptiousness. I was introduced to this delightful cake by my grandma, who made it for family picnics. Every bite brings me back to those sunny afternoons filled with laughter and happiness.
What Makes a Dump Cake Special?
If you’ve never had a dump cake, prepare for a wonderful surprise. A dump cake is a type of cake where you simply dump all the ingredients into a baking dish, and magic happens in the oven. It’s one of the easiest desserts to whip up when you’re short on time or energy yet want to treat your family.
The beauty of this cake lies in the combination of fruits and cake mix that create a warm, gooey, and delightful treat. The simplicity of the cherry pineapple mix paired with cake adds personality to this dessert. And trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating a 5-ingredient Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake requires just a handful of items. Here’s what to gather:
- 1 can of cherry pie filling
- 1 can of crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- ¾ cup of unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
These ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store. They come together to create a delightful mix that is perfect for serving warm or at room temperature.
How to Make 5-ingredient Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe
I find it helpful to outline clear steps to prepare this cake. Here’s how easy it is:
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial to ensure your cake bakes evenly.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it with cooking spray. This will help with easy removal once the cake is baked.
- Layer the Fruits: Pour the cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish. Follow with the crushed pineapple. The combination of these fruits adds yummy sweetness.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the top of the fruits. Don’t stir it; just layer it on top.
- Pour Butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix. This step is essential because it helps to create that crumbly topping when baked.
- Nut Garnish: If you like, you can sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans over the top. This adds a nice crunch to the soft cake.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes. You want a golden brown top and bubbly edges.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, let the cake cool for a few minutes. Serve it warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
Why This Dump Cake Is a Favorite
This cherry pineapple dump cake has become a favorite for many reasons. First, the comfort of a warm cake fresh from the oven is hard to beat. The fruity filling complemented by the crumbly cake offers a delightful contrast in textures.
Moreover, this dessert is versatile. You can mix and match the flavors by using different fruits or cake mixes. Love blueberries? Try blueberry pie filling with a lemon cake mix. The possibilities are endless!
Perfect Occasions for Dump Cake
Wondering when you should whip up this fantastic dessert? Here are some perfect occasions:
- Family picnics and barbecues
- Birthday parties
- Holiday gatherings
- Potluck dinners
- Movie nights at home
This dump cake fits any occasion, making desserts relaxed and fun.
Tips for the Best Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake
Even with a simple recipe, I have picked up a few tips for creating the best dump cake:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check the expiration dates on canned goods. Fresh ingredients lead to a fresher flavor.
- Even Layering: Make sure to spread the cake mix evenly. The more uniform the layer, the better the bake.
- Watch the Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when done.
- Experiment with Toppings: Personalize your cake with toppings. Try whipped cream, chocolate syrup, or even a drizzle of caramel to add an extra layer of flavor.
Common Questions about Dump Cake
I’ve received quite a few questions about dump cakes, so here are some answers:
Can I Use Fresh Fruit Instead of Canned?
Yes! You can use fresh fruit, but you’ll want to add a bit of sugar to sweeten it up, as canned fruits are typically sweeter. Make sure to adjust the moisture level if your fresh fruit is juicy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
After enjoying, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last about 3-4 days. Just reheat slices in the microwave for a quick dessert.
Can I Freeze This Cake?
Absolutely! This cake freezes well. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
Pairing Suggestions
This cherry pineapple dump cake is amazing on its own, but here are a few pairing ideas to elevate your dessert experience:
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully on warm cake.
- Whipped Cream: Top your slice with a dollop of whipped cream for extra fluffiness.
- Coffee: The sweet, fruity flavors are complemented by a robust cup of coffee.
Final Thoughts on 5-ingredient Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe
The 5-ingredient Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is proof that delicious desserts don’t need to have long ingredient lists or complicated methods. I love that it brings back memories of cherished family gatherings with each delicious bite.
I encourage you to make this cake and share it with friends and family. It’s perfect for any gathering or just an everyday treat you can enjoy at home. You can take pride in serving a fantastic dessert that has minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.