If you’re dreaming of an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s full of bright, tropical flavor, you’re in the right place! Today, I’m sharing with you exactly How to Make Pineapple Dump Cake? This one-bowl wonder combines just a handful of pantry staples into a gooey, golden treat. With bursts of juicy pineapple hidden under a sweet, buttery topping, this is the sort of recipe you’ll want to make again and again—for weeknight cravings, last-minute guests, or any day you need a little sunshine on your plate.

How to Make Pineapple Dump Cake? Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With only a few ingredients, each one in this recipe pulls its weight! The magic comes from their simplicity and the way they layer together to create contrasting flavors and textures. Whether you use canned or fresh pineapple, every component plays a key role in the finished dessert.

Crushed Pineapple (1 can, 20 oz or 2 cups fresh): This is the superstar of our cake, adding juiciness and a pop of tropical sweetness.
Yellow Cake Mix (1 box, 15.25 oz): This shortcut brings all the structure and rich crumb we want, with no mixing bowls required.
Butter (½ cup, melted): Melted butter seeps into the cake mix, turning it golden-brown and ultra crispy on top.
Optional Sugar (¼ cup): If you’re using fresh pineapple and want extra sweetness, a sprinkle of sugar is perfect.
Optional Cinnamon or Powdered Sugar (1 teaspoon): A dusting of either on top adds lovely spice or creamy finish—so fun for presentation!

How to Make How to Make Pineapple Dump Cake?

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s preheating, grab a 9×13-inch ceramic or glass baking dish and give it a good grease with butter or nonstick spray. This will make sure your pineapple dump cake comes out easily, with all those delightful crispy bits intact.

Step 2: Layer the Pineapple

If you’re using canned pineapple, simply pour the whole can—juices and all—right into your baking dish. Opting for fresh pineapple? Evenly spread 2 cups of finely chopped pineapple in the dish, and if you’d like it sweeter, scatter ¼ cup of sugar over the fruit. It’s that easy—no mixing required at this stage!

Step 3: Sprinkle on the Cake Mix

Take your box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the entire layer of pineapple. Make sure the dry mix covers the fruit completely. For a fun variation, you could sprinkle half now, add the melted butter, and finish with the rest, but even distribution leads to that classic pineapple dump cake texture we all crave.

Step 4: Add the Melted Butter

Now, gently pour your melted butter all over the surface of the dry cake mix. Aim to cover as much as possible—this is what gives you those irresistible golden, crunchy edges! Don’t worry if there are some dry spots; as the cake bakes, the butter will work its way through.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is a gorgeous golden brown and you see those pineapple juices bubbling up along the edges. Resist the urge to dig in immediately and let it cool slightly—this will help the layers set and make serving much easier.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

Before serving, you can dust the top with powdered sugar for a cloud-like look or sprinkle over some cinnamon for warmth and color—a perfect finishing touch that takes your How to Make Pineapple Dump Cake? to the next level!

How to Serve How to Make Pineapple Dump Cake?

Garnishes

Your How to Make Pineapple Dump Cake? loves a little flair! Try finishing it off with a generous dusting of powdered sugar, a pinch of cinnamon, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh whipped cream and a maraschino cherry on top never hurt either—a touch that makes each serving feel special and fun.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs beautifully with light, refreshing sides. I love serving slices of How to Make Pineapple Dump Cake? with fresh berries or a chilled fruit salad to balance the richness. For coffee lovers, a hot cup of espresso or a tropical iced tea is the perfect companion.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to think outside the pan! Bake the How to Make Pineapple Dump Cake? in individual ramekins for charming personal desserts, or layer cubes of cake with whipped cream and fresh pineapple for a summery trifle. A drizzle of caramel sauce or sprinkle of toasted coconut makes every plate feel like a celebration.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator, tightly covered or in an airtight container. The flavors deepen overnight, and the texture stays delicious for up to three days—perfect for a midnight snack or late-afternoon treat!

Freezing

How to Make Pineapple Dump Cake? actually freezes remarkably well. Once completely cool, cover servings securely with foil or place them in freezer-safe containers. Your cake will keep for up to three months, and you can thaw a piece anytime you need dessert on demand.

Reheating

To recapture that just-baked magic, reheat your pineapple dump cake in a 350°F oven until warm and bubbly—about 10–15 minutes. For a quick fix, a brief zap in the microwave works too, just remember the topping might lose a touch of crunch. Either way, it’ll still taste incredible!

FAQs

Can I use other types of fruit?

Absolutely! While How to Make Pineapple Dump Cake? is a tropical favorite, this basic method works wonders with peaches, cherries, or even mixed berries. Each gives its own twist on the classic.

Why is my cake mix powdery in places?

This can happen if the butter doesn’t reach all areas of the cake mix. Next time, try slicing your butter thinly and laying it evenly across the top, or use a spoon to help drizzle melted butter everywhere for more even coverage.

Is it better with canned or fresh pineapple?

Both work beautifully! Canned crushed pineapple brings extra juiciness and convenience, while fresh pineapple has a bright, tangy flavor. If you opt for fresh, remember to add a bit of extra sugar for balance.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap the regular yellow cake mix for your favorite gluten-free version. Everything else in the How to Make Pineapple Dump Cake? stays the same—easy and delicious.

How do I keep the topping crispy?

The key is to use enough butter to soak into the cake mix, and to serve the cake soon after baking. If you’re making it ahead, pop it under the broiler for a few minutes before serving to crisp up the golden top again.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re inspired to give How to Make Pineapple Dump Cake? a try, whether you’re a longtime fan or new to this easy classic! With just a few ingredients and a laid-back method, it’s pure comfort in every bite—a recipe I love sharing, and one you’ll be asked for again and again. Enjoy every sweet, buttery spoonful!

How to Make Pineapple Dump Cake? Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 18 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A quick and easy recipe to make a delicious Pineapple Dump Cake that requires minimal effort with maximum flavor. This dessert is perfect for any occasion and will surely impress your guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple (or 2 cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped)
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted
Optional: ¼ cup sugar (if using fresh pineapple)
Optional: 1 teaspoon cinnamon or powdered sugar for topping

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the pineapple: Spread crushed or fresh pineapple in the baking dish. If using fresh pineapple, sprinkle sugar over it.
Add the cake mix: Sprinkle the cake mix over the pineapple evenly.
Add butter: Pour melted butter over the cake mix, covering the surface.
Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Cool and serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon.

Notes

You can serve this cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
Experiment with adding chopped nuts or coconut flakes for extra texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American