I love desserts that are quick to make and delicious to eat. One of my all-time favorites is the Easy 5 Ingredients Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake. This dessert is a delightful mix of sweet cherries and tangy pineapple, topped with a buttery cake layer. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a cozy night at home.
What is Dump Cake?
Dump cake is a simple dessert that gets its name from the way you prepare it. You literally “dump” all the ingredients into a baking dish and let the oven do the work. It’s one of those recipes that anyone can make, even if you’re not a pro in the kitchen. The best part is that it requires minimal effort and time, making it a go-to for busy days.
Why I Love Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a family reunion. My aunt brought it to our potluck, and I was instantly hooked. The combination of cherries and pineapple creates a sweet and slightly tart flavor that’s simply irresistible. Plus, the cake layer on top adds a wonderful texture that makes each bite a delight.
Ingredients for 5 Ingredients Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake
Servings: 8-10 servings
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dessert:
- 1 can of cherry pie filling (21 oz)
- 1 can of crushed pineapple (20 oz), undrained
- 1 box of yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
- 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (optional, like pecans or walnuts)
How to Make 5 Ingredients Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake
Making this dump cake is as easy as pie. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly.
- Prepare the baking dish by greasing a 9×13 inch baking pan. You can use cooking spray or butter for this.
- Dump the cherry pie filling into the bottom of the pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Add the crushed pineapple on top of the cherries. Do not drain the pineapple; the juice adds moisture and flavor.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the fruit layer. Don’t mix it; just let it sit on top.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix. Ensure that it covers as much of the mix as possible.
- Top with nuts if you’re using them. They add a nice crunch to the dessert.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Tips for Perfect Dump Cake
To ensure your Easy 5 Ingredients Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake turns out great, here are some handy tips:
- Use quality ingredients: Fresh or high-quality canned fruits will enhance the flavor.
- Don’t skip the butter: It’s essential for that rich, buttery flavor.
- Let it cool: Allow the cake to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve.
- Serve warm or cold: This dessert is delicious either way. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top makes it even better!
Variations of Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily change it up based on what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:
- Peach Dump Cake: Swap the cherry pie filling for peach filling and use sliced peaches instead of pineapple.
- Berry Dump Cake: Use mixed berries instead of cherries and add a bit of lemon juice for a fresh twist.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the top before baking for a rich chocolate flavor.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this Easy 5 Ingredients Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake, you have plenty of options. Here are a few ideas:
- With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream on top makes a heavenly combination.
- With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy touch.
- With Fresh Fruit: Serve with fresh berries or sliced bananas for added freshness.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing them properly is key to keeping them fresh. Here’s how:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat: For the best taste, reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.
- Freeze: You can freeze the dump cake for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
Why This Recipe is Great for Any Occasion
I find that this Easy 5 Ingredients Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a casual family dinner, it fits right in. It’s simple enough for weeknight desserts but delicious enough to impress guests.
Nutritional Information
While this dessert is not the healthiest option, it can be enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 2g
The Easy 5 Ingredients Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that brings back fond memories for me. It’s a recipe that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. I encourage you to try it out the next time you need a sweet treat. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create something so delicious with just a few ingredients.