easter dump cake Recipe
If you are looking for a dessert that’s as effortless as it is delightful, this easter dump cake is going to become your new go-to. With layers of luscious cherry pie filling and tangy crushed pineapple nestled beneath a crunchy, buttery topping, this cake brings together flavors and textures that scream celebration. The ease of dumping ingredients into a dish and letting the oven work its magic makes this apple smoother a perfect pick for your festive table or any time you want a sweet treat without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients come together beautifully to create a cake that’s bursting with flavor and just the right balance of sweetness and nuttiness. Each component plays its role from the juicy fruit layers to the crisp, golden topping.
- 15.25 oz cake mix (vanilla or lemon): Provides the base with a tender crumb and subtle flavor that complements the fruit.
- 21 oz cherry pie filling: Brings a rich, sweet-tart burst of cherry goodness to the heart of the cake.
- 21 oz crushed pineapple (drained): Adds a bright, tropical tang and juicy moisture for perfect balance.
- 1 cup shredded coconut: Offers a chewy texture and tropical flavor; try adding food coloring for a festive look.
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts: Delivers a satisfying crunch and a nutty depth to every bite.
- 12 oz unsalted butter (melted): Ensures a rich, golden crust with that melt-in-your-mouth buttery finish.
- 3 large eggs (optional): For extra richness and a more cake-like texture, though the cake shines wonderfully without them.
How to Make easter dump cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the cake evenly, allowing the fruit to bubble up while the topping crisps beautifully.
Step 2: Layer the Cherry Filling
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the entire cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom. This creates a deliciously sweet foundation that will soak into the cake mix topping.
Step 3: Add the Pineapple
Next, layer the drained crushed pineapple evenly over the cherries. The pineapple brings a refreshing tartness and extra moisture, making the cake wonderfully juicy.
Step 4: Sprinkle the Coconut
Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly over the fruit layers. This adds a unique texture and just a hint of tropical flavor that elevates the overall dessert.
Step 5: Combine Cake Mix and Nuts
In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix with chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch. If you want to make the cake richer and more tender, beat the eggs lightly and mix them in.
Step 6: Spread the Dry Mixture
Evenly sprinkle the cake mix and nut mixture all over the coconut layer. Try to cover the entire surface to ensure every bite is packed with goodness.
Step 7: Drizzle with Melted Butter
Drizzle the melted butter over the top, making sure to cover as much of the cake mix as possible. This step is key to creating that irresistible golden, crispy crust everyone will rave about.
Step 8: Bake Until Golden
Place your dish in the oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the fruit layers are bubbling up around the edges.
Step 9: Cool and Add Festive Touches
Let the cake cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving so it sets beautifully. For added Easter fun, consider coloring the coconut with food coloring or sprinkling pastel-colored sprinkles on top.
Step 10: Serve Warm
This easter dump cake is irresistible served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream that melts into every bite.
How to Serve easter dump cake
Garnishes
Adding a touch of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream brings a cooling contrast to the warm, fruity cake. Fresh mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar can also brighten up the presentation and add a subtle flair.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, making it a delightful ending to a cozy brunch or dinner. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit salad for a refreshing complement.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the easter dump cake in individual ramekins for a charming presentation, perfect for guests at your Easter gathering. Layering the cake with additional whipped cream and colorful sprinkles in a trifle bowl also creates a festive showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftovers tightly and place them in the refrigerator. The cake will stay fresh for up to three days, with the flavors melding even more beautifully after a day.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake for longer storage by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and it will retain much of its original texture and flavor.
Reheating
To enjoy the cake warm again, pop it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual servings for about 30 seconds. Top with a fresh scoop of ice cream for an indulgent experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different fruit filling instead of cherry?
Absolutely! While cherry pie filling is classic in this easter dump cake, you can substitute with other fruit fillings like blueberry or peach to create your own twist on the flavor.
Is it necessary to drain the crushed pineapple?
Yes, draining the pineapple prevents the cake from becoming too soggy while still providing enough moisture for a tender crumb and juicy fruit layers.
What does adding eggs do to this cake?
Eggs add extra richness and help bind the cake mix for a more traditional cake texture, but the recipe works beautifully even without them if you prefer a quicker version.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
If you use a gluten-free cake mix, this dessert can easily be made gluten-free. Just double-check the pie filling and other ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
How do I make the coconut festive for Easter?
Coloring your shredded coconut is simple: mix it with a few drops of food coloring and toss well until evenly dyed. This brightens up the cake and makes it perfect for Easter celebrations.
Final Thoughts
This easter dump cake is truly a special treat that combines ease, flavor, and festive charm all in one dish. I encourage you to try it for your next holiday or anytime you want a dessert that feels homemade and celebratory without spending hours in the kitchen. Once you taste the incredible layers and buttery crunch, it’s sure to become a beloved classic in your recipe collection.
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easter dump cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easter Dump Cake is an easy-to-make, festive dessert featuring layers of cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple, and coconut topped with a moist, nutty cake crust. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it combines sweet fruit flavors with a crunchy, buttery topping that bakes to golden perfection. A delightful treat served warm, especially with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
Fruit Layers
- 21 oz cherry pie filling
- 21 oz crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup shredded coconut (consider adding food coloring for festive colors)
Cake Mixture
- 15.25 oz vanilla or lemon cake mix
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 3 large eggs (optional, for extra richness; can be omitted)
Other
- 12 oz unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal baking temperature before assembling the cake.
- Spread Cherry Pie Filling: Evenly spread the cherry pie filling across the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish creating the first fruit layer.
- Layer Pineapple: Drain the crushed pineapple well and layer it evenly over the cherry pie filling.
- Add Coconut: Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly on top of the pineapple layer, adding a sweet and textured topping.
- Prepare Cake Mix: In a mixing bowl, combine the dry cake mix with the chopped pecans or walnuts. If using eggs for extra richness, beat them lightly and stir into the mixture until well combined.
- Sprinkle Cake Mixture: Evenly sprinkle the cake mix and nut mixture over the coconut layer, covering it completely.
- Drizzle Butter: Pour the melted unsalted butter evenly over the entire cake mixture to help it bake into a crispy, golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes to set before serving.
- Optional Decoration: For a fun Easter twist, add food coloring to the shredded coconut before layering or top with pastel sprinkles for a festive look.
- Serve: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance its rich flavors.
- Storage: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Using eggs is optional; omitting them will still yield a delicious cake.
- Drain the pineapple well to prevent excess moisture, which can make the cake soggy.
- Consider coloring the shredded coconut with food coloring for a vibrant festive appearance.
- For extra texture, nuts can be swapped or omitted based on preference or allergies.
- Serve warm for the best taste and texture experience.
- Store leftovers properly to keep the cake fresh for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of cake)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Easter dessert, dump cake, cherry dump cake, pineapple cake, easy holiday dessert, festive dessert
