Dump-It Dessert Cake
Dump-It Dessert Cake is a quick, layered dessert combining sweet pineapple, cherry filling, moist cake, and toasted coconut for a delightful treat. Perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers, its vibrant flavors and easy assembly make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Lightly grease a 9 x 12 inch baking pan.
- Spread crushed pineapple evenly in the pan.
- Top with cherry pie filling.
- Sprinkle dry yellow cake mix over the fruit layers.
- Slice margarine into 12 slices and dot over the cake mix.
- Cover the top with flaked coconut.
- Bake for 1 hour or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts or using a butter cake mix instead of yellow cake mix. If you prefer a lighter dessert, substitute the margarine with coconut oil. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract to the crushed pineapple for extra sweetness. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Dump-It Dessert Cake warm or at room temperature, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with Apricot Sweet Potatoes for a delightful meal. You can also enjoy it as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea during brunch gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 15-30 seconds until warm. Alternatively, you can warm the entire cake in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, covered loosely with foil to prevent drying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dump-It Dessert Cake contains roughly 358 calories, with 1g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 32g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh fruit like cherries and pineapple, but you may need to adjust the moisture levels. Fresh fruit can be juicier, so consider reducing other liquid ingredients slightly to ensure the cake bakes properly.
What if I don't have flaked coconut?
If you don't have flaked coconut, you can either omit it or substitute with chopped nuts for added crunch. Alternatively, use crushed graham crackers or oats to create a different topping texture.
Can I make this dessert in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dessert a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste of the cake.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).