This Traditional Fruit Dump Cake is a breeze to make and perfect for any occasion. With a delightful mix of cherries, pineapple, and a buttery cake topping, it's a crowd-pleaser you can whip up in no time. Let's dive into this classic dessert that's as easy as it is delicious!
Cherry pie filling adds a rich, sweet-tart flavor that forms the base of the cake. Crushed pineapple, with its juicy sweetness, complements the cherries and adds moistness. Yellow cake mix creates a soft, buttery topping that ties the dessert together. Butter, when melted and drizzled over the mix, ensures a golden brown, crispy crust. Pecans add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, while shredded coconut brings a hint of tropical sweetness.
This cake is delightful on its own, but for an extra treat, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold creaminess pairs beautifully with the warm, fruity cake. For a festive touch, sprinkle a few fresh berries on top or a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it's ready for baking once you've assembled the cake. Grab a 9x13 inch baking dish, which is perfect for this amount of ingredients, and spread the cherry pie filling evenly at the bottom. This forms the sweet, tangy base layer of your dessert.
Next, open your can of crushed pineapple — no need to drain it. Pour it over the cherry layer and spread it out evenly. The juices will help keep everything moist and flavorful as it bakes.
Now, take your box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it over the fruit layers. Try to achieve as even a coat as possible, covering all the fruit. This dry mix will transform into a delicious, crumbly topping.
With the cake mix in place, drizzle the melted butter as evenly as you can across the top. You might notice some areas look more saturated — that's okay. The butter is what transforms the dry mix into a golden, crispy layer.
Sprinkle the chopped pecans and shredded coconut over the top. These will toast beautifully in the oven, adding a wonderful nuttiness and texture.
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for 50-60 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Once it's done, take it out and let it cool slightly before serving. This will help it set up a bit so you can get those perfect spoonfuls.
Share