Some days you just want dessert without turning the kitchen upside down. That’s exactly why this Gooey Amish Pineapple Dump Cake is such a classic. No mixing bowls. No complicated steps. Just layers, into the oven, and done.
This old-fashioned pineapple dump cake is sweet, buttery, slightly crisp on top, and soft and juicy underneath. The pineapple caramelizes as it bakes, and the cake mix forms a golden crust that almost tastes like cobbler. It’s simple, humble, and honestly — that’s the charm.
Quick Recipe Info
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
- Total Time: About 50 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Calories: ~320 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, with juice
- 1 box yellow cake mix (dry)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
How to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Pour the crushed pineapple into the dish, juice included. Spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix over the pineapple. Don’t stir. It might feel wrong — but trust the process.
- Slowly drizzle the melted butter across the top. Try to cover as much of the dry mix as you can.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s best warm.
Tips for a Better Texture
- If you see dry patches of cake mix before baking, add a little more melted butter.
- For extra richness, slice cold butter thinly and lay it over the top instead of melting.
- Don’t drain the pineapple — the juice is what creates that gooey bottom layer.
Easy Variations
- Add cherry pie filling for a pineapple cherry dump cake.
- Sprinkle shredded coconut on top for a tropical version.
- Mix in chopped pecans if you like a little crunch.
Storage
Cover leftovers and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.
FAQ
Why is it called a dump cake?
Because you literally “dump” the ingredients into the dish. No mixing required.
Can I use fresh pineapple?
You can, but you’ll need extra liquid. Canned pineapple with juice works best for that soft, gooey texture.
Is this the same as pineapple cobbler?
It’s similar in texture, but much easier. This is one of the simplest Amish-style desserts you can make.
Final Thoughts
If you love easy comfort desserts, this Gooey Amish Pineapple Dump Cake is worth keeping in your back pocket. Three ingredients. One dish. Almost no effort. And somehow, it always disappears fast.
