Florida Dump Cake
A warm and fruity dessert combining pineapple, cherry, and a buttery cake topping, perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers that enjoy sweet, nostalgic flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread the chunked pineapple and cherry pie filling evenly in a 9 x 13-inch cake pan.
- Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit layer.
- Slice the margarine evenly over the cake mix layer.
- Sprinkle walnuts over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 50 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using a sugar-free cake mix and replacing the margarine with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. You can also add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix for extra flavor. If you don't have walnuts, pecans or almonds can work just as well. Ensure the fruit layers are spread evenly for consistent baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Florida Dump Cake is delicious on its own but can be elevated with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top. It pairs beautifully with Patty'S Cole Slaw for a delightful contrast if served at a picnic or barbecue. For a more festive touch, consider drizzling a bit of chocolate syrup over the top before serving.
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 about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. This dessert tastes great warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Florida Dump Cake contains roughly 491 calories, with 8g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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! Just make sure to cook the pineapple and cherries slightly with some sugar to release juices, making it similar to the canned versions. This will help maintain the moisture and sweetness that the recipe requires for the best results.
Is there a gluten-free option for the cake mix?
If you want to make this recipe vegan, substitute the margarine with a vegan butter alternative and use a vegan cake mix. Make sure the pie filling does not contain any gelatin or dairy products.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the cake?
If you prefer a less sweet dessert, consider using a sugar-free cake mix or reducing the amount of cherry pie filling. You can also add unsweetened shredded coconut or fresh berries to balance the flavors without adding extra sugar. Adjusting the ingredients allows for a more customized taste.
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).