Pineapple Coconut Layered Dump Cake Recipe

With its tropical combination of sweet pineapple, coconut, and a buttery, golden cake topping, this Dump Cake is an irresistible treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried it sooner.

Why This Pineapple Coconut Dump Cake is a Must-Try!

This recipe has all the qualities of a perfect dessert: it’s quick, delicious, and sure to impress. The magic of a dump cake lies in its simplicity just layer the ingredients, and let the oven do the work. The combination of tangy pineapple, sweet coconut, and a buttery, crisp cake topping creates a dessert that’s both comforting and refreshing at the same time.

The best part? You can serve it warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. This cake will quickly become a go-to recipe for gatherings, potlucks, or a sweet treat to enjoy at home with your family.

Ingredients for Pineapple Coconut Layered Dump Cake:

One of the things that makes this recipe so easy is the short list of ingredients. You probably already have most of them in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake:

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (preferably a box with pudding in the mix)
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, but walnuts or pecans work great!)

For Serving:

• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional, but highly recommended!)

This is a classic dump cake, so you don’t need to mix or stir the ingredients together just layer them in the pan and bake. How easy is that?

How to Make Pineapple Coconut Layered Dump Cake

Ready to make this delicious dessert? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, and you’ll be rewarded with a decadent treat in no time. Let’s dive into the simple steps.

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that it’s fully heated and ready to bake the cake as soon as you assemble the ingredients.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of butter. This will prevent the cake from sticking and help ensure the golden, crispy edges everyone loves.
3. Layer the Crushed Pineapple: Open the can of crushed pineapple (do not drain the juice) and spread it evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. The pineapple will provide the base of your dump cake, and its natural sweetness and moisture will make the cake incredibly tender and juicy.
4. Add the Shredded Coconut: Evenly sprinkle shredded coconut over the pineapple layer. This adds a delicious tropical flavor and texture to the cake, making each bite even more irresistible. Plus, the coconut will toast beautifully as it bakes, giving the cake a lovely golden color.

5. Top with the Cake Mix: Now comes the fun part dumping the cake mix! Sprinkle the entire box of yellow cake mix evenly over the coconut layer. Do not mix it with the other ingredients just let it sit on top. As it bakes, the cake mix will absorb the flavors of the pineapple and coconut, turning into a delightful, buttery cake topping.

6. Add Butter and Nuts: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the cake mix. This helps the cake top become golden and crispy. If you’re using chopped nuts, sprinkle them evenly over the top for added crunch and flavor. Walnuts, pecans, or even almonds would be great choices.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. The cake should be bubbly around the edges, and you’ll notice a delicious aroma filling your kitchen as it bakes.
8. Cool Slightly and Serve: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This gives the cake time to set and makes it easier to scoop out. Serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pineapple Coconut Dump Cake

To ensure that your Pineapple Coconut Layered Dump Cake turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to help you along the way:

• 1. Don’t Drain the Pineapple: It’s important to not drain the crushed pineapple before adding it to the baking dish. The juice from the pineapple adds moisture to the cake and helps create that tender, sweet layer beneath the crispy topping. Trust me, you want all that pineapple goodness!

• 2. Use a High-Quality Cake Mix: While this recipe is simple, the quality of the cake mix you use will have a big impact on the final result. Opt for a good-quality yellow cake mix, preferably one that contains pudding in the mix. This will ensure a soft, moist cake topping that complements the pineapple and coconut.

• 3. Add Extra Coconut for More Flavor: If you’re a big fan of coconut, you can add more shredded coconut to the recipe. Simply sprinkle an extra 1/4 to 1/2 cup of coconut on top before baking. This will create an even more pronounced coconut flavor, and the extra coconut will toast beautifully in the oven.

• 4. Customize the Toppings: Feel free to get creative with the toppings! You can try adding chocolate chips, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for an extra special touch.
• 5. Check for Doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, make sure to check the cake around the 40-minute mark. If the top isn’t golden and crispy yet, let it bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking every few minutes to avoid over-baking.

Variations and Substitutes:

One of the best things about this Pineapple Coconut Layered Dump Cake is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some variations and substitutes you can try:

• 1. Dairy-Free Option: If you need to make the cake dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with a non-dairy butter substitute, like margarine or coconut oil. You can also use coconut milk in place of any dairy-based cream if you want to enhance the coconut flavor.

• 2. Gluten-Free Version: To make the cake gluten-free, simply swap the regular yellow cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix. Many brands offer gluten-free versions of classic cake mixes, so you can still enjoy the same flavors without the gluten.

• 3. Tropical Twist: If you love tropical flavors, consider adding mango or papaya alongside the pineapple for a fun twist. You could also swap the yellow cake mix for a coconut-flavored cake mix for an extra coconut kick.

Pairings and Side Dishes:

While this Pineapple Coconut Layered Dump Cake is delicious on its own, you can elevate the experience by pairing it with a few complementary dishes or drinks. Here are some ideas to consider:

1. Beverage Pairings:

• Piña Colada: For a tropical-themed dessert, why not go all in with a piña colada? The creamy coconut and pineapple flavors of this classic cocktail will pair wonderfully with the dump cake.
• Coconut Water: For a non-alcoholic option, a chilled glass of coconut water offers a refreshing, slightly sweet drink that balances the richness of the dessert.
• Iced Tea: A simple iced tea sweetened or unsweetened can also make a great pairing, providing a light, refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake.

2. Side Dishes:

• Tropical Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with fresh tropical fruits like mango, kiwi, and papaya would complement the cake perfectly, adding a bit of freshness and variety to the meal.
• Grilled Chicken Skewers: For a more substantial meal, consider serving the dump cake alongside grilled chicken skewers with a tropical marinade, such as one with pineapple juice and coconut milk, to keep the tropical theme going.

3. Other Desserts:

If you’re serving this cake as part of a dessert spread, consider pairing it with another fruity treat like coconut macaroons, lemon bars, or a cherry cobbler. The different textures and flavors will keep things interesting!

Why This Pineapple Coconut Layered Dump Cake is a Winner

This Pineapple Coconut Layered Dump Cake truly deserves to be a staple in your recipe collection for several reasons. Here’s a quick recap of why it’s such a winner:

• Ease of Preparation: It’s practically foolproof. Just layer the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and in less than an hour, you have a warm, delicious dessert to serve. No complex steps, no need for mixing or fancy techniques just pure, simple goodness.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of pineapple, coconut, and cake is universally loved, making this an ideal dessert for all kinds of events, from birthday parties to holiday feasts. Plus, it has a tropical twist that makes it feel a little more special than your average cake.
• Versatility: This cake is incredibly adaptable. Whether you want to make it dairy-free, gluten-free, or packed with extra coconut, it can be customized to fit a wide variety of tastes and dietary needs. You can even switch out the fruit or add different toppings to suit your preferences.
• Satisfying and Comforting: While this cake is light and fruity, it’s also rich and indulgent. The buttery, golden topping paired with the juicy pineapple and coconut makes for a perfect balance of comfort and refreshment.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a potluck, this cake fits right in. It’s so easy to make in a large batch, and it holds up well over time, so it’s great for leftovers, too.

Closing

If you’re looking for a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert that delivers on flavor, this Pineapple Coconut Layered Dump Cake is the answer. It’s perfect for any occasion, and with its tropical flair and easy prep, it’s sure to become a go-to in your recipe box.

So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and let the delightful combination of pineapple, coconut, and cake wow your taste buds! Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just enjoying a sweet treat at home, this dump cake will bring smiles to everyone’s faces.

I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! If you try this recipe, don’t forget to leave a comment below or tag me on social media. And of course, feel free to share it with your friends and family after all, who doesn’t love a great dessert recipe? Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this cake ahead of time. Once it’s baked, you can let it cool, then cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or oven before serving.

2. Can I freeze the dump cake?

Absolutely! If you have leftovers or want to prepare it in advance, this cake freezes beautifully. After baking and cooling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw and reheat.

3. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

While canned crushed pineapple works best for this recipe, you can use fresh pineapple if you prefer. Just make sure to chop it finely and add a bit of juice to mimic the consistency of canned pineapple.

4. What can I substitute for the shredded coconut?

If you’re not a fan of coconut or need to make the recipe for someone with allergies, you can leave it out entirely or replace it with a different ingredient, like chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work well). Another option is to use almond meal or even a sprinkle of oats for added texture.

5. How can I make this cake more decadent?

For a truly indulgent dessert, try adding a drizzle of caramel sauce over the warm cake, or even sprinkle chocolate chips on top of the cake mix layer before baking. It adds a rich, gooey element that everyone will love.

Nutritional Information

For those interested in the nutritional breakdown of this cake, here’s an estimate per serving (based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 30g
• Protein: 3g

Of course, the exact values may vary depending on your ingredients and portion sizes, but this gives you a general idea.

I hope you enjoyed the recipe and all the fun tips and variations! Have fun baking your Pineapple Coconut Layered Dump Cake, and remember to share your results with me. Happy baking, and see you next time with more delicious recipes!

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