Pineapple-Cherry Dump Cake
A sweet and fruity dump cake featuring pineapple, cherry, nuts, and coconut, baked to golden perfection—perfect for family gatherings and casual desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour undrained crushed pineapple into a buttered 9 x 13-inch cake pan.
- Pour cherry pie filling over the pineapple.
- Sprinkle cake mix evenly over the fruit layers.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans and flaked coconut on top.
- Cut margarine into thin patties and arrange on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes or until done.
- Check the cake at 35 minutes; if not done, continue baking for up to 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using fat-free cake mix or substituting the margarine with applesauce. You can also experiment by adding crushed walnuts instead of pecans for a different flavor. If you want a tropical twist, try adding shredded pineapple or swapping the cherry filling for mixed berries. This recipe is forgiving, so feel free to adjust the fruit to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top for a delightful dessert. This cake pairs beautifully with Grandma's Corn Soup for a comforting meal. You can also enjoy it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a light yogurt parfait for a balanced treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until heated through. You can also cover the entire cake with foil and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple-Cherry Dump Cake contains roughly 383 calories, with 4g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g 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 make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance. Just follow the instructions until baking, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, allow it to come to room temperature before baking for the best results.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pineapple, make sure to finely chop it and drain any excess juice before adding it to the pan. This will help maintain the texture of the cake while providing a fresh flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this a gluten-free dessert by using a gluten-free cake mix. Just ensure that all other ingredients, including the cherry pie filling, are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious treat!
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).