Introduction: Can dessert get any easier than a dump cake in a slow cooker?
Think of your favorite pineapple upside-down cake—but easier, gooier, and totally hands-off. Slow-Cooker Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake is a dreamy dessert where tropical fruit, buttery brown sugar, and soft yellow cake mix come together in one pot. Just dump, cook, and enjoy the sweet smell filling your kitchen. No oven needed, and barely any prep time!
Overview: Why This Dessert is a Must-Try
This dump cake combines the nostalgic feel of a classic pineapple upside-down cake with the ease of modern slow cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours on HIGH
- Skill Level: Super easy
- Perfect For: Parties, potlucks, family dessert night
You layer everything, turn on the slow cooker, and come back to a hot, bubbling cake that’s bursting with flavor.
Essential Ingredients and Why They Matter
- Butter (¾ cup, divided): Adds richness and moisture. Half is used for the brown sugar layer, half is drizzled over the top.
- Brown Sugar (⅔ cup, packed): Creates that caramelized upside-down topping.
- Maraschino Cherries (6 oz jar, drained): Classic touch that adds color and sweetness.
- Chopped Pecans (½ cup, toasted): Brings crunch and nutty contrast.
- Pineapple (20 oz can, undrained): Crushed or tidbits work great. Adds tangy sweetness and keeps the cake moist.
- Yellow Cake Mix (1 package): The shortcut hero! No need to mix—just sprinkle it dry.
- Vanilla Ice Cream (optional): Makes the warm dessert extra indulgent.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Create the Brown Sugar Layer:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt ½ cup butter.
- Stir in brown sugar until well combined.
- Spread mixture evenly on the bottom of a greased 5-quart slow cooker.
- Add the Fruit and Nuts:
- Sprinkle in drained cherries and toasted pecans.
- Spoon undrained pineapple evenly over the top.
- Add Cake Mix and Butter:
- Sprinkle dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pineapple.
- Melt the remaining ¼ cup butter and drizzle it across the top.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 hours, until fruit is bubbly and the top looks set.
- Optional: Rotate the slow cooker insert halfway through to avoid scorching.
- Cool Slightly Before Serving:
- Turn off the slow cooker.
- Let the cake sit uncovered for 30 minutes before serving.
Assembly and Presentation Tips
- Scoop into bowls while warm and top with vanilla ice cream.
- Garnish with extra maraschino cherries or a sprinkle of toasted coconut.
- For neat slices, chill slightly, then slice like a traditional cake.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Microwave individual servings for 20–30 seconds.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prep layers in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate. Start cooking when ready.
- Freezing: Not recommended due to fruit content and texture loss.
Recipe Variations
- Use a Spice Cake Mix: Adds warm flavor depth.
- Add Coconut: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the pineapple before cake mix.
- Try Apples or Peaches: Swap pineapple for other canned fruits.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix.
Conclusion: The Sweetest Set-and-Forget Dessert
Slow-Cooker Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake is proof that great desserts don’t have to be complicated. It’s warm, sweet, gooey, and comforting—perfect for any occasion. Let your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy the delicious payoff.
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Slow-Cooker Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake
Description
Think of your favorite pineapple upside-down cake—but easier, gooier, and totally hands-off. Slow-Cooker Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake is a dreamy dessert where tropical fruit, buttery brown sugar, and soft yellow cake mix come together in one pot.
Ingredients
- Butter (¾ cup, divided): Adds richness and moisture. Half is used for the brown sugar layer, half is drizzled over the top.
- Brown Sugar (⅔ cup, packed): Creates that caramelized upside-down topping.
- Maraschino Cherries (6 oz jar, drained): Classic touch that adds color and sweetness.
- Chopped Pecans (½ cup, toasted): Brings crunch and nutty contrast.
- Pineapple (20 oz can, undrained): Crushed or tidbits work great. Adds tangy sweetness and keeps the cake moist.
- Yellow Cake Mix (1 package): The shortcut hero! No need to mix—just sprinkle it dry.
- Vanilla Ice Cream (optional): Makes the warm dessert extra indulgent.
Instructions
- Create the Brown Sugar Layer:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt ½ cup butter.
- Stir in brown sugar until well combined.
- Spread mixture evenly on the bottom of a greased 5-quart slow cooker.
- Add the Fruit and Nuts:
- Sprinkle in drained cherries and toasted pecans.
- Spoon undrained pineapple evenly over the top.
- Add Cake Mix and Butter:
- Sprinkle dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pineapple.
- Melt the remaining ¼ cup butter and drizzle it across the top.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 hours, until fruit is bubbly and the top looks set.
- Optional: Rotate the slow cooker insert halfway through to avoid scorching.
- Cool Slightly Before Serving:
- Turn off the slow cooker.
- Let the cake sit uncovered for 30 minutes before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh pineapple? Yes, just add a little juice or water to replace the canned juice.
2. Do I mix the cake batter first? Nope! Just sprinkle the dry mix right on top.
3. Will it be soggy? The top stays cakey, and the bottom becomes a syrupy fruit layer—just like a classic dump cake.
4. Can I make it in the oven? Yes! Bake in a greased 9×13 pan at 350°F for 35–40 minutes.
5. Do I need to toast the pecans? It’s optional but adds great flavor.
6. Can I add cinnamon? Absolutely! A dash over the pineapple or mixed into the cake mix is great.
7. Can I cook it on LOW? It’s not recommended—the top may stay too raw.
8. What if I don’t like cherries? Leave them out or replace with berries or dried cranberries.
9. Is this recipe kid-friendly? Totally! Sweet, fruity, and fun to make together.
10. What should I serve it with? Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce!
