This Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert—minimal effort, maximum flavor! With layers of juicy crushed pineapple, optional cherry pie filling, and a buttery cake topping, this dump cake is a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any occasion. The caramelized brown sugar and cinnamon add a sweet, spiced finish, while optional nuts provide a delightful crunch. It’s as simple as layering, baking, and serving!
Prep Time
- 10 minutes
Cook Time
- 45–50 minutes
Total Time
- 1 hour
Servings
- 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for added crunch)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
- Spread the crushed pineapple (with juice) evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- If using, spoon the cherry pie filling over the pineapple layer, spreading it gently to cover the surface.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the fruit mixture for a sweet, spiced caramelization.
- Evenly distribute the dry cake mix over the top of the fruit layer. Do not stir.
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix to ensure even moistness throughout the cake.
- If desired, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added texture and flavor.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes , or until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and cooked through.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly.
- Slice into squares and serve warm. For an extra indulgent treat, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Pro Tips
- Optional Mix-Ins: Add maraschino cherries or pineapple chunks for a more traditional upside-down cake vibe.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the nuts if you prefer or need a nut-free dessert.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days . Reheat individual portions in the microwave for best results.
- Freezing: Freeze slices of the cake in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 28g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake is the definition of effortless indulgence. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that’s rich, gooey, and full of tropical flavor. The combination of sweet pineapple, spiced caramel, and buttery cake is irresistible, while the optional cherry pie filling adds a pop of color and extra sweetness. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving something sweet, this dump cake is sure to impress.
Ready to make this easy, crowd-pleasing dessert? Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a slice of pure pineapple perfection—it’s sweet, simple, and utterly delicious!
