Q1: What is the biggest mistake to avoid when making a pineapple cranberry dump cake?

The most common mistake is not evenly distributing the cake mix and butter over the fruit layers. Uneven coverage can lead to dry spots or undercooked areas in your easy pineapple cranberry dump cake recipe.

Q2: What does mixing pineapple and cranberry juice do?

Combining pineapple and cranberry juice creates a natural balance of sweetness and tartness, giving this cranberry pineapple dessert its signature flavor. It also keeps the cake moist while baking.

Q3: Why do they call it a dump cake?

It’s called a dump cake because you “dump” the fruit, cake mix, and butter directly into the pan—no mixing bowl required! This makes the old-fashioned pineapple cranberry dump cake incredibly simple to prepare.

Q4: What is a pineapple dump cake?

A pineapple dump cake is a quick, one-pan dessert that layers pineapple, cake mix, and butter to create a soft, flavorful cake. This version, with cranberries added, is a delicious pineapple cranberry dump cake with sour cream option.

Pineapple Cranberry Dump Cake – The Best Easy Dessert Recipe (2025)

Description

Sweet pineapple pairs beautifully with tart cranberries under a golden, buttery cake topping. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for festive gatherings, potlucks, or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients:

1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice, drained slightly
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1 box yellow or white cake mix (15 oz)
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Optional: ½ teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg
Optional: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Fruit Layer: Spread pineapple evenly in the dish, then scatter cranberries on top. Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg if using.
Cake Layer: Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the fruit. Do not stir.
Top with Butter: Drizzle melted butter evenly over the cake mix.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes until the topping is golden and the fruit is bubbly.
Cool & Serve: Let cool slightly. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Notes

Frozen cranberries can be used without thawing; increase baking time slightly if needed.
For a sweeter version, sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons of sugar over the cranberries before adding cake mix.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 2–3 days; reheat gently before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American