Hal'S Dump Cake
A delightful layered dessert featuring pineapple, cherry filling, and a crunchy pecan topping, perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers with a sweet, fruity flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish, pour the crushed pineapple and spread it out evenly.
- Add the cherry pie filling on top of the pineapple without stirring.
- Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the cherry filling.
- Melt the margarine and pour it over the cake mix.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 1 hour at 350°F (175°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can also experiment by adding a layer of shredded coconut or using chopped walnuts instead of pecans. If you're looking for a quicker option, opt for a boxed vanilla or butter cake mix. Make sure to evenly distribute the cake mix to ensure even baking for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
Hal's Dump Cake is delightful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of Pineapple-Salsa Topping for a refreshing contrast. For a complete dessert spread, consider serving it alongside other sweet treats like Spice Cut-Up Cookies or Green Angel Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, cover any leftovers with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hal'S Dump Cake contains roughly 210 calories, with 2g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 14g 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 cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Using fresh cherries will change the texture and moisture level of the dish. If you choose to use fresh cherries, you may want to add sugar and cornstarch to create a similar consistency to pie filling. This adjustment will help ensure the dessert isn’t too watery and retains its structure.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make Hal's Dump Cake vegan by using a vegan butter substitute instead of margarine and ensuring your cake mix is dairy-free. Many brands offer suitable cake mixes, so check the labels. This way, you can enjoy a delicious dessert while adhering to vegan recipes.
What can I do if my cake mix is lumpy?
If your cake mix is lumpy, it’s best to sift it before sprinkling it over the cherry filling. Sifting will help break up any clumps and ensure a smoother texture when baked. You can also gently mix the dry cake mix with a fork to break up lumps before adding it to the dish.
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).