Are you craving a delicious, easy dessert that requires minimal effort and maximum flavor? Look no further! This Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake is the perfect answer for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. It’s a simple recipe, perfect for beginner bakers, yet delivers a surprisingly impressive and satisfying result. This recipe is a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. Get ready to experience the joy of a truly delightful dessert, without the fuss!
Ingredients:
- 1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling
- 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 box (15.25 ounce) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. This simple step ensures your cake releases easily and prevents sticking.
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Layer the Filling: Pour the cherry pie filling evenly into the prepared baking pan. Spread it out to create an even layer across the bottom.
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Add the Pineapple: Next, distribute the drained crushed pineapple over the cherry filling. Try to spread it evenly, too. The combination of sweet cherries and tangy pineapple creates a beautiful flavor profile.
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Cake Mix Crumble: Sprinkle the entire box of yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit layers. Don’t worry about making it perfect; a rustic look adds charm.
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Melted Butter Magic: Slowly pour the melted butter over the cake mix. The butter will gradually soak into the cake mix, creating a moist and delicious crumb topping.
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Nutty Delight (Optional): If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts evenly over the top. This adds a delightful crunch and extra layer of flavor.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cake is set. The baking time might vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
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Cool & Serve: Let the cake cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set properly. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy this simple yet sensational dessert!
Tips for Dump Cake Success:
- Don't overmix: Resist the urge to mix the batter; the less you handle it, the better the texture.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of cake mix slightly.
- Frozen fruit: For an even easier version, use frozen cherries and pineapple. Just make sure they're thawed slightly before layering.
- Creative variations: Experiment with different fruit combinations like peaches and blueberries, or strawberries and raspberries.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Fat: Approximately 20-25g Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-50g Protein: Approximately 4-5g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This cherry pineapple dump cake is a perfect example of a quick dinner idea dessert. It's so easy to prepare that it's ideal for those busy weeknights when you crave something sweet and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a wonderful recipe for both experienced bakers and those just starting their culinary journey. Enjoy this simple yet scrumptious dessert – your taste buds will thank you!