Hawaiian Dump Cake: Easy, Tropical, and Crowd-Pleasing
Hawaiian Dump Cake recipe using cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple, cake mix, coconut shreds and pecans. Just dump and bake.
When you need a no-fuss treat with sunny island flavor, Hawaiian dump cake is hard to beat. Sweet pineapple, rich cake mix, buttery pecans, and other tropical favorites come together in one baking dish—no mixer required. It is one of those dependable dessert recipes that works for potlucks, family dinners, holidays, or a casual weekend treat.
A dump cake is closer to a warm fruit cobbler than a traditional layer cake. The ingredients are added in layers, then baked until the fruit bubbles and the topping becomes golden and crisp. Serve it warm for maximum comfort-food appeal, or chill it for a firmer texture.
Fun Facts About Dump Cake
- The name describes the method: ingredients are layered, or “dumped,” directly into the baking dish.
- Most dump cake dessert recipes require no mixing bowl, electric mixer, or special decorating skills.
- The dessert is often compared with cobbler because it combines juicy fruit with a crisp, buttery topping.
- Pineapple gives Hawaiian dump cake its signature tropical character and helps keep the filling moist.
- The contrast of warm fruit and crunchy pecans is part of what makes every spoonful satisfying.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Dump Cake
- Spread each layer evenly. Distribute the fruit and dry cake mix from edge to edge so every serving has a balanced texture.
- Do not stir. The layered method is what creates the distinct fruit filling and crumbly topping.
- Cover dry spots. Arrange the butter as evenly as possible over the cake mix. Exposed powder may remain floury after baking.
- Watch the nuts closely. Pecans should become toasted and deep golden brown, not black. If they darken too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil for the rest of the baking time.
- Let it rest. Cool the dessert for 10 to 15 minutes before serving so the bubbling filling can thicken slightly.
- Use a clear baking dish when possible. It makes it easier to see when the fruit is bubbling around the edges.
Serving Suggestions
Hawaiian dump cake is delicious on its own, but a simple topping can make it feel extra special. Try one of these easy serving ideas:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla, coconut, or macadamia nut ice cream.
- Add lightly sweetened whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted coconut.
- Top individual servings with fresh pineapple, mango, or sliced banana.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for a richer dessert.
- Pair with hot coffee, iced tea, or a tropical fruit drink.
For a party, bake the dump cake in a decorative casserole dish and provide a large serving spoon. Small bowls are ideal because they hold the fruit filling and any melting ice cream. This is one of the easiest dessert recipes to scale for a crowd.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool, then cover the baking dish tightly or transfer portions to airtight containers. Refrigerate promptly and enjoy within 4 to 5 days. The topping will soften during storage, but reheating can restore some of its texture.
To freeze, wrap individual baked portions securely and place them in freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat a serving in the microwave until warmed through, or use the oven for a crisper topping. Avoid leaving the cake at room temperature for extended periods.
How do you know when Hawaiian dump cake is done?
The filling should be bubbling around the edges, and the topping should look golden brown with toasted pecans. Do not wait for the nuts to turn black. If the center still shows large patches of dry cake mix, give it more time or carefully add a little butter over those areas.
Why is it called dump cake?
The ingredients are layered directly in the baking dish instead of being mixed into a batter. That simple “dump and bake” method is why this style of dessert earned its memorable name.
Can you freeze Hawaiian dump cake?
Yes. Cool the baked cake completely, divide it into portions, and wrap each portion well before placing it in an airtight freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bring it to room temperature or reheat it before serving.
Does dump cake need to be refrigerated?
Yes. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate leftovers. For best quality, enjoy them within 4 to 5 days.
More Dessert Recipes to Try
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~Bobbi
Hawaiian Dump Cake
Equipment
- 9×13 Baking dish
Ingredients
- 21 Oz Cherry Pie Filling
- 20 Oz Crushed Pineapple DO NOT DRAIN
- 1 Box (18.5 oz) Yellow Cake Mix
- 2 Sticks butter, melted
- 8 Oz Shredded Coconut
- 1 Cup Pecans, Chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven 350°.
- In a 9×13 baking dish, spread the Cherry Pie Filling.
- Add Crushed Pineapple and spread over Cherry Pie Filling.
- Add the Yellow Cake Mix and spread over the Pineapple.
- Add the melted butter and spread (as well as you can) over the cake mix.
- Add the coconut and carefully spread over the butter.
- Add the chopped pecans evenly over the coconut.
- Bake in preheated oven for 1 hour.
- Let cool for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Anyone, I dislike canned cherries. Any other ideas. Someone mentioned double pineapple or fruit salad cocktail or even peaches. What do you all think? Could I use bananas?
I think Peach Pie Filling would work as well. If you use pineapple, or fruit salad. Make sure to drain them. That extra juice could make it soggy. What about apple pie filling??
Good luck!
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thanks for sharing this
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