Name: Pineapple Dump Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 220 oz cans Crushed Pineapple (with juice); ½ cup Light Brown Sugar; 15.25 oz package Yellow Cake Mix; ¾ cup Unsalted Butter (melted); 1 cup Raw Pecans (chopped); 1 cup Vanilla Ice Cream (for serving)

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There’s something special about the warmth and comfort of a good dessert, and for me, that exquisite joy often comes from a delectable Pineapple Dump Cake. Growing up, my family had a go-to dessert that always made its way to our gatherings, and this cake was at the forefront. The blend of delicious crushed pineapple and a simple cake mix creates this sweet, tangy treat that never failed to impress our guests. I remember the laughter and joy around the dinner table, especially when someone would take their first bite, eyes lighting up with delight at the unexpected flavors. Now, as an adult, I find myself reminiscing about those moments, making this cake not just a recipe, but a way to share love and memories. Baking a Pineapple Dump Cake is not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating a delicious experience that brings people together. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or just a cozy night in. It’s quick, simple, and oh-so-delicious!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 5 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
55 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
9×13 inch pan

Why You Need This Pineapple Dump Cake

1. It’s Incredibly Easy to Make

One of the main reasons I adore Pineapple Dump Cake is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a culinary genius to whip it up. Just layer the ingredients, and let the oven do the hard work for you. It’s a classic dump cake that saves you time without compromising taste.

2. Delightful Flavor Combinations

The combination of sweet, tangy crushed pineapple and the comforting taste of a yellow cake mix creates an unforgettable flavor profile. It’s like a tropical vacation in every bite, making it perfect for those who crave a taste of sunshine!

3. Perfect for Sharing

This recipe makes a generous amount, making it ideal for gatherings. Whether it’s a birthday party, picnic, or holiday dinner, you’ll find this cake disappearing quickly, leaving everyone satisfied and asking for seconds.

4. Versatile and Customizable

While the base recipe is fantastic, the Pineapple Dump Cake invites creativity. You can add nuts, swap out fruits, or even throw in a different cake mix. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences!

5. A Nostalgic Touch

Every time I bake this cake, I’m transported back to my childhood. It holds a special place in my heart as a dessert that evokes wonderful memories of family and friends. It’s a reminder that the simplest recipes often hold the most meaning.

6. Minimal Cleanup!

As much as I love baking, cleaning up afterward can be a drag. Thankfully, this recipe is straightforward, and you’re left with minimal dishes to wash. The ease of preparation is a major win in my book!

Recipe Ingredients for Pineapple Dump Cake

When it comes to baking, the right ingredients can transform a good recipe into a great one. For a Pineapple Dump Cake, the ingredients work together seamlessly to create a dessert that’s both easy and delicious. The star of the show is the crushed pineapple, which adds moisture and sweetness, while the cake mix provides the perfect base. Together with the rich butter, sweet brown sugar, and crunchy pecans, this cake comes together in a delightful way that’s sure to please.

220 oz cans crushed pineapple (1134g): The moist base of the cake, providing natural sweetness and a tropical flavor.
½ cup light brown sugar (100g): Adds depth and sweetness, enhancing the natural flavors of the pineapple.
15.25 oz package yellow cake mix (432g): The foundation of this cake, offering a light and fluffy texture.
¾ cup unsalted butter (156g, melted): Provides richness and helps bind the ingredients together while adding flavor.
1 cup raw pecans (115g, chopped): Adds a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.
Vanilla ice cream for serving: A delightful addition that complements the warm cake perfectly!

How to Cook Pineapple Dump Cake

Cooking a Pineapple Dump Cake is as straightforward as it sounds, and I love how each step builds anticipation for that first bite. Let’s jump right into it!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) or 160°C if you’re using a fan oven. This step is crucial for ensuring your cake bakes evenly. While the oven heats up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch (approx 22×33 cm) baking dish. I like to use butter or non-stick spray for easy removal later.
Open the crushed pineapple cans and pour the contents into the prepared pan, spreading it out to form an even layer. Make sure to include the juice; it’s key for moisture!
Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the layer of pineapple. This will caramelize beautifully during baking, creating a lovely sweet layer.
Evenly sprinkle the yellow cake mix over the brown sugar layer. Unlike traditional cake recipes, there’s no mixing here; just spread it out gently.
Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix. This will soak into the cake and provide richness. Make sure to cover it well!
Scatter the chopped pecans on top. They’ll toast nicely in the oven, adding a delightful crunch.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it toward the end to avoid over-baking!
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 30 minutes. This cooling time helps the cake set and makes it easier to serve.
Serve your Pineapple Dump Cake warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The combination of warm cake and cold ice cream is simply heavenly!

Things Worth Knowing

Layering is Key: Make sure to layer the ingredients evenly to achieve a balanced flavor throughout the cake.
Don’t Skip the Juice: Using the juice from the pineapple helps maintain moisture within the cake, making it tender and delicious.
Variations are Welcome: Feel free to adjust the fruits or toppings to suit your taste!
Serving Warm: Enjoying the cake warm enhances the flavors and makes it more comforting.

Make It Your Own

While the Pineapple Dump Cake is fantastic as is, there are numerous ways to get creative with it. Here are some ideas to customize your cake:

Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. Just cover it with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh.
Freezing: You can freeze this cake! Just make sure it’s completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It’ll keep well for about two months.
Pairing: This cake pairs excellently with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.
Flavor Adjustments: Consider swapping one can of crushed pineapple for cherry pie filling for a delicious twist!
Nuts Optional: If you’re not a fan of nuts, feel free to skip or substitute with another topping like coconut.
Serving Suggestions: This cake is ideal for summer picnics or cozy winter evenings. Serve it warm for the best experience!

How to Enjoy Pineapple Dump Cake

Ideal for Gatherings: The Pineapple Dump Cake is perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, or family dinners. It serves a crowd and is sure to be a hit.
Seasonal Delight: While it’s delicious any time of year, it’s particularly refreshing in the summer months when you want something light and sweet.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It tastes great cold, too!
Goes Well with Drinks: A side of lemonade or iced tea complements this cake beautifully, making for a delightful dessert experience.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a casual family dinner, this cake fits right in!

FAQ

The Pineapple Dump Cake is a simple dessert made by layering crushed pineapple, a cake mix, and butter in a baking dish. It’s known for its delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a favorite at gatherings. This dessert is easy to prepare, as the ingredients are simply dumped in without any mixing, resulting in a moist and flavorful cake that pairs beautifully with ice cream.

Absolutely! One of the best features of Pineapple Dump Cake is its versatility. You can substitute the crushed pineapple with other fruits like cherry pie filling or apple pie filling for a different flavor. You can also add nuts, coconut, or even chocolate chips to enhance the texture and taste. The cake mix can be swapped for different flavors as well, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences.

To store leftover Pineapple Dump Cake, make sure it’s completely cooled, then cover it with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. It should last up to three days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will maintain its quality for a couple of months. Just remember to let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

The Pineapple Dump Cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which adds a creamy and delicious contrast to the warm cake. You can also serve it with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra treat. Fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, can complement the flavors nicely. This cake is great for all occasions, be it a summer barbecue or a cozy winter gathering.

Conclusion

The Pineapple Dump Cake truly stands out as a delightful dessert that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. Its ability to bring people together over a delicious treat is what makes it special. I encourage you to try making this cake for your next gathering or just to satisfy a sweet craving. You’ll find that it’s not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress.