Quick And Easy Dump Cake
A delightful dump cake featuring a vibrant combination of cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple, and crunchy pecans, all topped with a moist yellow cake layer. Perfect for a quick dessert that appeals to fruit lovers and families alike, offering a sweet, tangy, and nutty flavor profile with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9 x 13-inch cake pan.
- Spread cherry pie filling evenly in the prepared pan.
- Pour crushed pineapple over the cherry filling.
- Sprinkle sugar evenly over the pineapple.
- Spread yellow cake mix evenly over the sugar layer.
- Dot the top with 2 sticks of margarine.
- Sprinkle pecan pieces over the butter.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using different pie fillings like blueberry or peach. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using a sugar substitute or a reduced-fat cake mix. Ensure the cake mix is evenly distributed for optimal baking. If you prefer a crunchy topping, add more pecans or use walnuts instead. This dump cake is a fantastic way to use leftover fruit from your own homemade applesauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the dump cake warm from the oven, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a side of fruit salad or a dollop of homemade applesauce for a refreshing contrast. This dessert is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, bringing together flavors that everyone will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or until warm. Alternatively, you can warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Serve it warm for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick And Easy Dump Cake contains roughly 439 calories, with 5g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 6g 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 dump cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers ahead and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble just before baking for the best texture. It can also be assembled the night before and baked in the morning, but keep it covered to prevent drying out.
What can I substitute for margarine?
You can substitute margarine with unsalted butter or a vegan butter alternative if you're looking for a dairy-free option. Coconut oil can also be used for a different flavor profile, keeping in mind that it may alter the texture slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
This recipe is not gluten-free or sugar-free, but you can adapt it for vegan diets by using a vegan cake mix and margarine. For gluten-free options, look for gluten-free cake mixes and ensure your pie fillings are also gluten-free.
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).