Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake checks both boxes, combining rich, buttery flavors with tropical pineapple sweetness and a hint of cherry.

With just five simple ingredients and almost no prep time, it’s perfect for busy days when you still want to impress. Whether you’re baking for a party, a potluck, or just to treat yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver smiles all around!

What is Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake?

Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake is a dessert that takes the classic charm of a pineapple upside-down cake and simplifies it even further. It’s a no-fuss recipe that combines rich, sweet pineapple flavors with the buttery goodness of cake—all without the need for complex techniques. Just as the name suggests, all the ingredients are “dumped” into a baking dish and layered in a way that creates the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The result? A warm, gooey, and irresistibly delicious treat that practically makes itself while you sit back and relax.

Why is it Called a Dump Cake?

The term “dump cake” may not sound glamorous, but it perfectly describes the ease of this dessert. Instead of mixing several components in various bowls, this recipe skips the fuss. All the ingredients are dumped directly into a baking dish, layered in a specific order, and baked to perfection. This method saves time and keeps clean-up minimal, making it ideal for busy weekdays or spontaneous cravings.

The Pineapple Upside Down Twist

What makes this dump cake stand out is that it borrows inspiration from the classic pineapple upside-down cake. Traditional pineapple upside-down cake involves arranging pineapple rings and cherries in a decorative pattern at the base of the pan, topped with batter, and flipped after baking to reveal its stunning presentation. Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake delivers all the same flavors but with far less effort. Instead of flipping the cake, you simply serve it straight from the pan—no elaborate designs needed.

Ingredients:

• Pineapple tidbits
• Maraschino cherries
• Brown sugar
• Pineapple cake mix
• Butter

How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake

Set your oven to 350°F and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with grease.

Drain the cans of pineapple and spread the fruit in the dish.

Place the cherries on top of the pineapple.

Scatter the brown sugar over the fruit layer.

Evenly spread the cake mix across the top. In a small bowl, melt the butter and pour it over the cake mix.

Bake for 55 minutes until it turns golden.

Enjoy!

Variations and Additions

One of the best things about a Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake is how easy it is to experiment with flavors and make it your own.

Chocolate Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake

Looking to add a rich, chocolatey layer to this already delightful dessert? Chocolate lovers, this one’s for you! Swap the traditional yellow or pineapple cake mix for a chocolate cake mix to create a whole new flavor profile. The combination of pineapple’s tangy sweetness with the deep flavor of chocolate is downright irresistible.

For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle chocolate chips over the fruit layers before adding the cake mix. They’ll melt slightly during baking and add pockets of gooey chocolate goodness. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle melted chocolate on top after the cake cools for a finishing touch. This version is perfect for when you want to satisfy both tropical and chocolate cravings in one swoop.

Tropical Fruit Variations

Why stop at pineapples when the tropics offer so much variety? You can swap or mix the pineapple with other canned or fresh fruits to create a colorful, tropical medley. Some great options include:

• Mangoes: Add fresh or canned mango slices for an ultra-sweet, velvety texture.
• Papaya: A subtle, creamy fruit that complements pineapple beautifully.
• Guava: Use it in pureed form for a layer of tangy flavor.
• Passion Fruit: Scatter some passion fruit pulp to provide a slightly tart contrast.

Don’t forget to layer these fruits with the maraschino cherries for that pop of color and familiar sweetness. This variation is perfect if you’re hosting a luau-themed party or just want to add a refreshing twist to your dessert.

For more inspiration using unique fruit combinations, check out Cake Mix M&M Cookie Bars.

Gluten-Free Options

Making this cake gluten-free is much easier than you think. Start by using a gluten-free cake mix that works well for dump cakes. Many grocery stores now carry gluten-free mixes in a variety of flavors, including vanilla and chocolate.

Another essential tip is to double-check the labels on all your ingredients. While fruits and sugar are naturally gluten-free, some canned pineapple or maraschino cherries might contain additives or thickeners that include gluten. Opt for brands that clearly label their products as gluten-free to avoid any surprises.

To add a creative flair, consider customizing the topping. A sprinkle of crushed gluten-free graham crackers or coconut flakes can add a satisfying crunch without compromising the gluten-free requirements. For more gluten-free dessert inspiration, take a look at Gluten Free Veggie Muffins.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Every great Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake starts with a few simple yet impactful tricks. Whether you’re aiming for perfect caramelization or ensuring your cake stays fresh, these practical tips will make the process effortless.

Choosing the Right Pan

Picking the right pan is a game-changer when it comes to creating a flawless dump cake. The standard go-to is a 9×13 inch baking dish, which provides the ideal depth and surface area to ensure even baking. Avoid pans that are too shallow, as the ingredients can bubble over during baking, creating a sticky mess that nobody wants to clean. Glass or ceramic pans are particularly reliable because they heat evenly and allow you to see how well the bottom layer is cooking.

If you’re using a metal pan, keep in mind that it may bake slightly faster. Check your cake a few minutes early to prevent over-browning. Also, don’t forget to grease your dish thoroughly beforehand—trust me, you’ll thank yourself when it’s time to serve.

Storage Tips

So, you’ve baked your delicious Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake, but what’s the best way to store it? Proper storage ensures the cake remains moist and flavorful.

1. Room Temperature: If you plan to enjoy the cake the same day, you can cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and leave it at room temperature. This works well for keeping the cake fresh for up to 24 hours.
2. Refrigeration: For longer storage, transfer the cake to the refrigerator. Place it in an airtight container or cover the pan with wrap to prevent it from drying out. Stored this way, it will stay delicious for about 3-4 days.
3. Freezing: Want to make it ahead of time? Slice the cake into portions, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The cake freezes well for up to 2 months.

For those of you inspired by easy-to-make cakes, you might also enjoy exploring a few other creative recipes like the No Bake Strawberry Icebox Cake with Chocolate Syrup. It’s another layered dessert that promises indulgence with minimal effort.