Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe

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Golden, gooey, and delightfully simple, Pineapple Dump Cake is the kind of dessert that tastes like it took hours to make—but really comes together in minutes. This beloved classic brings tropical sweetness to the forefront with tangy pineapple chunks and a buttery, crisp topping that practically melts in your mouth. Every bite is an effortless combination of tart fruit and indulgent cake mix magic, perfect for cozy gatherings or weeknight cravings.

The beauty of Pineapple Dump Cake lies in its name—you “dump” everything into a baking dish and let the oven do the work. There’s no whisking, no frosting, no need for mixers or layers. Just fruit, cake mix, butter, and a little love. Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled from the fridge the next day, this dessert delivers flavor and comfort in every bite.

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Ingredients for Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe

• 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple (with juice)
• 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks or tidbits (drained)
• 1 box yellow cake mix (standard size)
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional)
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional for crunch)
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional for a hint of spice)
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly and develops that golden, bubbly top.

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Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

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Step 3: Layer the Pineapple

Pour the entire can of crushed pineapple (with juice) evenly into the bottom of the dish. Then layer the drained pineapple chunks or tidbits on top. Gently spread with a spoon to distribute the fruit evenly.

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Step 4: Add the Cake Mix

Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pineapple layer. Don’t stir—just let it rest on top like a blanket.

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Step 5: Add Optional Toppings

If using, sprinkle the shredded coconut, chopped nuts, and cinnamon evenly across the top of the dry cake mix. These ingredients add extra flavor and texture.

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Step 6: Drizzle with Melted Butter

Pour the melted butter slowly and evenly over the entire surface of the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the dry mix as possible to ensure even baking and a rich, golden crust.

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Step 7: Bake the Cake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. The center should be set, but still slightly gooey.

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Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool for about 10–15 minutes before serving. It’s delicious on its own, but even better with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving, based on 12 servings and standard ingredients)

• Calories: 290
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Sugar: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 280mg

Note: Values may vary depending on brands and optional ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure it’s chopped finely and you include enough juice to keep the base moist.

2. What other fruits work well in this recipe?

Cherries (like cherry pie filling), peaches, or mandarin oranges pair wonderfully with or instead of pineapple.

3. Is it okay to use white or spice cake mix instead of yellow?

Definitely! White cake mix gives a lighter flavor, while spice cake adds a warm, cinnamon-like depth.

4. How do I make it dairy-free?

Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Be sure to check the cake mix for hidden dairy ingredients.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving, or enjoy cold.

6. What size dish should I use?

A 9×13-inch dish is ideal. If using a smaller dish, the cake may need a longer bake time to cook through.

7. Why is it called a “dump” cake?

Because you literally “dump” the ingredients into the dish—no mixing, beating, or separate bowls required.

8. Can I freeze Pineapple Dump Cake?

Yes, once baked and cooled, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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