If you are looking for a dessert that is both delightfully simple and irresistibly delicious, the Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This cake brings together the caramelized sweetness of pineapple and cherries with the buttery richness of cake mix, all baked to golden perfection without any fuss. It manages to create a dessert that tastes like it took hours to craft, but actually comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of straightforward ingredients, this recipe makes the magic happen with minimal effort but maximum flavor. Each component plays a vital role in building that classic sweet, tangy, and buttery profile that defines this favorite dessert.
- Diced Pineapple (2 cans, 20 oz each): Provides juicy sweetness and that signature tropical tang essential for the upside down style.
- Maraschino Cherries (1 jar, 10 oz): Adds vibrant color and a pop of bright, sweet flavor that complements the pineapple beautifully.
- Brown Sugar (½ cup): Creates a caramelized layer that melds everything together with a rich, molasses-like depth.
- Yellow Cake Mix (1 box): The base that bakes into a tender, fluffy cake soaking up all the fruity goodness underneath.
- Butter (¾ cup, sliced): Melts over the dry cake mix to give an irresistible moistness and golden crusty top.
How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350ºF and giving a 9×13-inch baking pan a light spray with cooking oil. This step ensures the cake won’t stick and comes out looking as beautiful as it tastes.
Step 2: Layer the Fruit and Sugar
Drain the pineapple and cherries carefully; excess juice can make the cake soggy, so this part is crucial. Spread the pineapple and cherries evenly on the bottom of the pan, then sprinkle brown sugar over the top. This layer will caramelize as it bakes, creating that signature upside down effect of rich sweetness and complexity.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
Next comes the easy part: sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit and sugar. Don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfectly smooth—this rustic approach is what makes dump cakes so wonderful.
Step 4: Dot with Butter
Scatter the sliced butter pieces over the dry cake mix. As the cake bakes, the butter melts and soaks into the mix, creating a moist, tender crumb that’s irresistible.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your pan into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges are bubbly. The aroma filling your kitchen will be enough to keep you hovering nearby!
How to Serve Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add texture, consider garnishing slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of toasted coconut or chopped pecans can add a pleasant crunch and tropical flair as well.
Side Dishes
This cake is a fantastic standalone dessert, but if you want to pair it, a light, creamy side like vanilla bean yogurt or a simple citrus sorbet enhances the fruity notes without overpowering them. It’s great after a barbecue or a casual family dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the cake warm in individual ramekins for a charming homemade touch, or plate slices with fresh pineapple slices and maraschino cherries for added color and freshness. Even layering the cake with whipped topping for a trifle-style dessert can make it a real showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, and the flavors actually deepen wonderfully with a bit of rest.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap it well and pop it into the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers warm, place individual slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short bursts until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat the whole cake in a 325ºF oven covered with foil to prevent drying out, heating until just hot and bubbly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned for this Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! If using fresh pineapple, make sure to drain it well to remove excess juice and prevent sogginess. Fresh pineapple will give a brighter flavor but canned is often more convenient and consistent for this recipe.
What type of butter is best for this cake?
Regular salted or unsalted butter works just fine. If you use salted butter, you may want to slightly reduce added salt elsewhere in your meal to keep the overall balance. Using high-quality butter will improve the richness and flavor of the cake.
Can I substitute the yellow cake mix for something else?
You can try a white cake mix or even a spice cake mix for a twist, but yellow cake mix is classic and pairs best with the tropical fruit flavors. Gluten-free or specialty cake mixes may require adjustments in cooking time or moisture.
How do I prevent the cake from becoming soggy?
The key is to drain the pineapple and cherries well before layering. Also, don’t add extra liquid to the batter. Using cold butter slices distributed evenly helps to create a golden crust that keeps the cake light and not mushy.
Can I double the recipe for a bigger crowd?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan, adjusting the baking time slightly to ensure it cooks through. Keep an eye on the cake; it’s done when golden on top and bubbly around the edges.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving this Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake Recipe a try—it’s just the kind of easy, no-fuss dessert that brings people together. The combination of caramelized fruit, buttery cake, and that warm, nostalgic taste hits all the right notes. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just want a delicious treat with minimal effort, this cake is guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
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Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake is a simple and delicious dessert that combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple and cherries with a moist, buttery cake topping. Made by layering fruit, brown sugar, cake mix, and butter, it bakes into a gooey, caramelized treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Fruit Layer
- 2 (20-oz) cans diced pineapple, drained
- 1 (10-oz) jar Maraschino cherries, drained
- ½ cup brown sugar
Cake Layer
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- ¾ cup butter, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Fruit and Sugar: Pour the drained pineapple and cherries evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the fruit to add sweetness and help create a caramelized topping.
- Add Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the pineapple and cherry mixture, covering it completely.
- Top with Butter: Distribute the sliced butter pieces evenly across the surface of the cake mix. This will melt during baking, creating a rich, moist cake texture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and bubbly around the edges.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the pineapple and cherries well to avoid a soggy cake.
- Use cold butter and slice it thinly to ensure even melting.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving for easier slicing.
- For added flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the cake mix.
- This cake can be served warm or at room temperature, with ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
