Pineapple Dump Cake

Pineapple Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that brings a burst of tropical flavor to any occasion. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply when you’re craving something sweet, this cake is incredibly easy to make. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, you can whip up this delicious treat in no time. What sets it apart is its moist texture and the perfect balance of sweetness from the pineapple and brown sugar. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet scrumptious dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy days.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of crushed pineapple and yellow cake mix creates a mouthwatering flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with ice cream or chilled with whipped cream for different experiences.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 servings, it’s ideal for gatherings where everyone will want a slice.
• Minimal Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients at home already, making it budget-friendly.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• 9×13 baking pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking spray

Why These Tools Matter

• 9×13 baking pan: Provides ample space for the dump cake to bake evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for perfect results.

Ingredients

For the Cake Base

• 2-20 ounce cans crushed pineapple (in pineapple juice, undrained)
• 20 ounce can pineapple rings (drained)
• 6 ounce jar maraschino cherries
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice

For the Cake Topping

• 15.25 ounce box yellow cake mix (Betty Crocker works well)
• 8 tablespoons butter (salted, melted)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar

Optional Toppings

• scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

How to Make Pineapple Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×13 baking pan or spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple Base

1. Pour both undrained cans of crushed pineapple into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Add lemon juice on top of the crushed pineapple.

Step 3: Add the Cake Mix

Pour the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the top of the crushed pineapple.

Step 4: Melt the Butter

Pour the melted butter over the dry cake mix evenly.

Step 5: Arrange Pineapple Rings

Place pineapple rings on top of the cake in rows of three for an appealing presentation.

Step 6: Add Maraschino Cherries

Drain maraschino cherries and scatter them over the top of the cake.

Step 7: Sprinkle Brown Sugar

Sprinkle brown sugar generously over everything in the baking dish.

Step 8: Bake and Cool

Bake in your preheated oven on the middle rack for about 70 minutes or until golden brown on top. Once done, let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Optional toppings include adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on each slice when serving!

How to Serve Pineapple Dump Cake

Serving Pineapple Dump Cake is easy, and you can get creative with various toppings and accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a slice at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dessert experience.

Classic Toppings

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on warm cake adds a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream enhances the cake’s sweetness while providing a light, airy texture.

Fruit Garnishes

• Fresh Pineapple Chunks: Adding fresh pineapple chunks on top gives a burst of freshness that complements the cake’s flavors.
• Berries: Strawberries or blueberries can add a pop of color and slight tartness that balances the sweetness.

Sauces and Drizzles

• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice creates an indulgent treat that is hard to resist.
• Coconut Cream: For a tropical touch, drizzle some coconut cream over the cake for added richness.

How to Perfect Pineapple Dump Cake

To ensure your Pineapple Dump Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check the expiration dates on your canned goods and use fresh lemons for juice to enhance flavor.
• Layering Technique: Pour the dry cake mix evenly over the pineapple for even baking and texture.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes; ovens can vary, so check for a golden brown top at around 60-70 minutes.
• Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before serving to let it set properly, making it easier to slice.
• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings based on your preferences; each addition can bring a new twist!
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Pineapple Dump Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Pineapple Dump Cake can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options that complement this sweet treat.

1. Grilled Chicken Salad: A light salad with grilled chicken provides protein and freshness that balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Vegetable Stir-Fry: Colorful veggies stir-fried in soy sauce offer a savory contrast to the dessert’s sweetness.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs serve as a hearty side that pairs well with any meal.
4. Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette offers a refreshing taste between bites of cake.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa pilaf with vegetables adds texture and nutrition, complementing the richness of the dump cake.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide additional warmth and comfort while enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pineapple Dump Cake, even minor oversights can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using Drained Pineapple: Always use undrained crushed pineapple. The juice adds moisture and flavor to the cake, preventing it from being dry.
• Skipping the Lemon Juice: The lemon juice is essential for balancing sweetness. Don’t omit it; a splash enhances the cake’s overall taste.
• Not Melting Butter Completely: Ensure your butter is fully melted before pouring. Solid butter can create uneven baking and texture issues in the cake.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Baking too long can lead to a burnt top, while underbaking may result in a soggy center.
• Forgetting Optional Toppings: Serving with ice cream or whipped cream elevates the dessert experience. Don’t skip this easy way to enhance flavor and presentation!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pineapple Dump Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pineapple Dump Cake

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its delicious flavor.

Reheating Pineapple Dump Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 30-40 seconds or until warm, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Heat slowly for about 5 minutes or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pineapple Dump Cake?

Pineapple Dump Cake is an easy dessert made by layering crushed pineapple, cake mix, and butter before baking. It’s known for its sweet and tangy flavor.

Can I customize my Pineapple Dump Cake?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, coconut flakes, or different fruits for added texture and flavor.

How do I know when my Pineapple Dump Cake is done?

The cake is done when it’s golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I make Pineapple Dump Cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.

Conclusion

Pineapple Dump Cake offers simplicity and delightful flavors that make it a favorite among dessert lovers. This recipe’s versatility allows for various customizations to suit your taste preferences perfectly. Give this easy dessert a try today!