Easy Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake – Simple & Delicious Dessert

Introduction

If you’re looking for a delicious, no-fuss dessert that brings tropical flavors and a nostalgic feel, Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake is the perfect choice! This easy-to-make dessert combines the sweetness of pineapple and maraschino cherries with a buttery, golden cake topping, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, craving a sweet indulgence, or need a quick dessert fix, this recipe will be your new go-to.

Unlike a traditional pineapple upside-down cake, this dump cake requires minimal preparation, making it perfect for beginners. There’s no need to worry about mixing batters or flipping the cake—just layer the ingredients, bake, and enjoy!

In this article, we’ll explore the step-by-step process of making Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake, share expert tips, discuss variations, and answer frequently asked questions. Get ready for a super easy, incredibly delicious dessert that will impress everyone at the table!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we jump into the process, let’s take a look at the simple ingredients you need to make this delightful Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake:

• 5 tablespoons butter, melted
• ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1 jar (10 ounces) maraschino cherries, drained (about 30 cherries)
• 2 cans (20 ounces each) crushed pineapple, well drained
• 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
• ¾ cup butter, melted

These seven simple ingredients come together to create a perfectly sweet, buttery, and fruity dessert that is easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Before you start assembling your cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and a perfectly golden cake top.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour 5 tablespoons of melted butter evenly across the bottom. This creates the rich caramelized base that makes this cake extra delicious.

Step 3: Add Brown Sugar and Pecans

Sprinkle ¾ cup of light brown sugar evenly over the melted butter. If you love a bit of crunch, add ¼ cup of chopped pecans for extra texture and nutty flavor.

Step 4: Layer the Cherries and Pineapple

• Place 30 maraschino cherries evenly across the baking dish.
• Spread the well-drained crushed pineapple over the cherries, making sure it’s distributed evenly.

These layers will create a juicy, fruity bottom layer that pairs perfectly with the buttery cake topping.

Step 5: Add the Cake Mix

Sprinkle the yellow cake mix directly over the pineapple layer, ensuring full coverage. Do not mix—this is the magic of a dump cake!

Step 6: Drizzle Melted Butter

Drizzle the remaining ¾ cup of melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. Try to cover as much of the surface as possible to create a crispy, golden topping.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit filling is bubbling.

Step 8: Let It Cool & Serve

Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm, and for an extra indulgence, serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream!

Tips for the Best Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake

• Drain the pineapple well to prevent a soggy cake.
• Use high-quality butter for a rich, flavorful topping.
• Want extra crunch? Add chopped walnuts along with pecans.
• Prefer a more caramelized topping? Increase the brown sugar to 1 cup.
• For a tropical twist, add shredded coconut to the pineapple layer.

Variations & Substitutions

• Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Replace the yellow cake mix with chocolate cake mix for a chocolate-pineapple combo.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to accommodate dietary needs.
• Sugar-Free Option: Substitute brown sugar and cake mix with sugar-free alternatives.
• Different Fruit Additions: Swap cherries for sliced peaches or mangoes for a unique flavor.

FAQs About Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can make it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes before serving.

2. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just make sure to dice it finely and drain excess juice to prevent a watery cake.

3. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

4. Can I use white or spice cake mix instead?

Yes! White cake mix gives a lighter flavor, while spice cake mix adds a warm cinnamon touch.

5. What can I serve with this dump cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even caramel drizzle!

Conclusion

Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert that combines sweet pineapple, juicy cherries, caramelized brown sugar, and a buttery cake topping. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious, crowd-pleasing treat that is perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re a beginner baker or just need a quick and foolproof dessert, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Try it today and indulge in the perfect blend of flavors and textures!

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