Pineapple Dump Cake (Cobbler)

Pineapple Dump Cake is the perfect dessert for those looking for a sweet and easy treat. With just four simple ingredients, this cake requires minimal preparation and delivers maximum flavor. The combination of crushed pineapple, a buttery cake topping, and brown sugar creates a delightful cobbler-like dessert with a crispy, golden top and a moist, fruity interior. It’s a great dessert for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. With its tropical sweetness and comforting texture, Pineapple Dump Cake is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pineapple Dump Cake is incredibly easy to make, yet it tastes like a dessert you’d spend hours preparing. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish and let the oven do the rest. The pineapple keeps the cake moist and infuses it with a sweet, tropical flavor, while the brown sugar and melted butter create a golden, crispy topping that adds the perfect crunch. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe offers a foolproof way to make a delicious dessert with minimal effort. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• Crushed pineapple (2 cans, 20 oz each)
• Yellow or white cake mix (1 box, 15.25 oz)
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup)
• Butter (1 cup, melted)

Variations

• Add Coconut: For a tropical twist, add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the cake mix before baking.
• Use Other Fruit: Swap the pineapple for other fruits like peaches, cherries, or mixed berries for a different flavor profile.
• Spices: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the cake mix for a warming, spiced flavor, especially during the colder months.
• Vegan Version: Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, and ensure the cake mix you use is dairy-free.
• Nuts: Add a handful of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the cake topping for extra texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.

Step 2: Add the Pineapple

Open the cans of crushed pineapple and drain slightly, leaving a bit of juice for moisture. Spread the pineapple evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Add the Cake Mix

Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top of the pineapple, ensuring the fruit is completely covered.

Step 4: Add the Brown Sugar

Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the cake mix, distributing it as evenly as possible.

Step 5: Pour the Butter

Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix, ensuring that all of the mix is covered with butter. This will help form the crispy topping.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit filling is bubbling around the edges.

Step 7: Serve

Let the cake cool for a few minutes before serving. This dessert is best served warm and can be topped with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Do Not Stir: For the best results, do not stir the ingredients after adding them to the baking dish. The “dump” method ensures the ingredients bake into a delicious, layered dessert.
• Butter Coverage: Make sure to evenly pour the melted butter over the cake mix so that it crisps up nicely. If some areas are left dry, the topping may not brown as evenly.
• Use Fresh Pineapple: If you prefer a fresher flavor, you can use fresh pineapple and chop it yourself, but the canned variety offers a more consistent and convenient texture.
• Check the Topping: If the top isn’t as golden as you’d like, you can place it under the broiler for a couple of minutes at the end of baking, but watch closely to avoid burning.

How to Serve

Pineapple Dump Cake is a fantastic dessert on its own, but it can be elevated with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. For a more decadent treat, serve it with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. It’s perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Pineapple Dump Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The cake is best when fresh, but it will still taste great after a couple of days.

Freezing

This dessert can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, let the cake cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat leftover Pineapple Dump Cake, place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes, you can substitute yellow cake mix with white cake mix, or even lemon cake mix for a citrusy twist.

2. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple can be used, though it might require a little more preparation to chop and release its juice.

3. How can I make this cake spicier?

Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg to the cake mix to give it a warm, spiced flavor.

4. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter, but it might alter the flavor slightly.

5. Is there a way to make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert gluten-free.

6. How long will this cake last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, Pineapple Dump Cake will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

7. Can I use a different fruit filling?

Yes, you can substitute the pineapple with other fruits, such as peaches, cherries, or berries, for a different flavor.

8. Can I make this in a smaller pan?

Yes, you can use a smaller baking dish, but you may need to adjust the baking time. Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes to ensure the topping crisps up properly.

9. Can I add nuts to the topping?

Yes, adding chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts to the top before baking adds a nice crunch and flavor to the cake.

10. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven.

Conclusion

Pineapple Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert that combines fruity sweetness with a buttery, golden cake topping. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a comforting, no-fuss treat that comes together in no time. Whether you make it for a family dinner, a holiday, or just as a quick indulgence, this dessert is sure to satisfy your cravings. With minimal ingredients and effort, Pineapple Dump Cake offers a deliciously simple way to enjoy the flavors of summer all year round.

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