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Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake Recipe

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4.2 from 47 reviews

This Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake is a quick and easy dessert combining the sweet, gooey goodness of caramelized brown sugar, pineapple, and cherries topped with a golden yellow cake mix. With minimal prep and a simple layering technique, it bakes into a moist, rich cake perfect for summer gatherings or comfort dessert cravings. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Filling

  • 5 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
  • 10 ounce jar maraschino cherries (about 30), drained
  • 2 (20 ounce) cans crushed pineapple, well drained

Topping

  • 15.25 ounce box yellow cake mix
  • 3/4 cup butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick baking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Brown Sugar and Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the packed light brown sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
  3. Layer Brown Sugar Mixture: Spoon the brown sugar and butter mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Carefully spread it out evenly across the bottom to coat the entire surface.
  4. Add Pecans: If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the brown sugar layer. This adds a pleasant crunch to the finished cake.
  5. Add Cherries: Distribute the drained maraschino cherries evenly over the brown sugar and pecan layer.
  6. Layer Pineapple: Spread the well-drained crushed pineapple over the cherries in an even layer, ensuring good coverage across the dish.
  7. Add Cake Mix Topping: Sprinkle the entire box of yellow cake mix evenly over the pineapple layer. Use your hands to gently spread and level the cake mix so it covers the pineapple completely and flatly.
  8. Drizzle Butter on Top: Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix, allowing it to soak in and help create a moist, golden crust.
  9. Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the cake is set.
  10. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot. For best results, scoop portions out and flip them upside down onto plates so that the gooey brown sugar and fruit layer is on top. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delicious finish.

Notes

  • To properly drain the crushed pineapple, place it in a fine-mesh strainer and press gently to remove excess juice. Leaving too much juice can make the cake topping less fluffy.
  • Optional pecans add a nice crunchy texture but can be omitted if preferred or for nut allergies.
  • Make sure to evenly distribute the cake mix and melted butter on top for consistent baking and texture.
  • Serve warm to fully enjoy the gooey, rich flavors enhanced by melting vanilla ice cream.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American