Crockpot Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake

If you’re looking for an easy dessert that tastes like it came straight from Grandma’s kitchen, this Crockpot Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake is the recipe you’ve been waiting for. It has everything you love about a classic pineapple upside down cake—sweet caramelized brown sugar, juicy pineapple, bright maraschino cherries, and buttery cake—all made effortlessly in your slow cooker.

The best part? There’s no mixing bowls, no fancy decorating, and no baking experience required. Simply layer the ingredients in your crockpot, let it cook, and a warm, gooey dessert is ready to enjoy in just a couple of hours. That’s why this is one of my favorite beginner slow cooker desserts.

Whether you’re serving it after a family dinner, bringing dessert to a potluck, or just craving something sweet on a weeknight, this easy dump cake is guaranteed to disappear fast. Serve it warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, and every bite is pure comfort.

If you’ve never made a dump cake before, you’re going to love just how simple this recipe is. It truly is one of those desserts that anyone can make with great results.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake

Super easy beginner recipe
Only a few pantry ingredients
No mixing required
Sweet caramelized pineapple topping
Perfect for potlucks and family dinners
Slow cooker does all the work
Amazing served warm with vanilla ice cream

Ingredients

½ cup butter, melted
⅔ cup packed brown sugar
1 small jar maraschino cherries, drained
1 (20-ounce) can pineapple tidbits, with juice
1 box yellow cake mix
¼ cup butter, melted
Vanilla ice cream, for serving

Ingredient Notes

Pineapple Tidbits

Using pineapple tidbits gives you pineapple in every bite, but crushed pineapple or pineapple chunks can also be substituted.

Maraschino Cherries

These give the dessert its classic pineapple upside down cake appearance while adding a pop of sweetness and color.

Yellow Cake Mix

Any standard yellow cake mix works perfectly. Butter cake mix is another delicious option.

Brown Sugar

Brown sugar combines with the butter to create a rich caramel sauce that soaks into the cake while it cooks.

Butter

Using butter instead of margarine gives this dessert its rich, homemade flavor.

How to Make Crockpot Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake

Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.

In a microwave-safe measuring cup, melt ½ cup butter using 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval.

Stir the brown sugar into the melted butter until combined.

Pour the butter mixture into the bottom of the crockpot.

Arrange the drained maraschino cherries evenly across the bottom.

Pour the pineapple tidbits and all of the juice over the cherries, spreading everything into an even layer.

Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pineapple. Do not stir.

Melt the remaining ¼ cup butter and drizzle it evenly over the top of the cake mix.

Cover and cook on High for about 2 hours, or until the cake is cooked through and the edges are golden.

If your slow cooker tends to cook unevenly, carefully rotate the crock insert halfway through cooking if your model allows, or simply turn the removable crock 180 degrees inside the heating base. (Many newer slow cookers heat evenly, so this step may not be necessary.)

Remove the lid and allow the cake to cool for about 30 minutes before serving.

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips for the Best Dump Cake

Resist the urge to stir the layers. The magic of a dump cake is letting everything cook in layers.
Spread the cake mix evenly so every bite has cake.
Don’t overcook or the edges can become dry.
Let the cake cool slightly before serving so the caramel sauce thickens.
A crockpot liner makes cleanup incredibly easy.

Variations

Pineapple Rings Version

Use pineapple rings instead of tidbits for a more traditional pineapple upside down cake presentation.

Coconut Pineapple Cake

Sprinkle shredded coconut over the pineapple before adding the cake mix.

Cherry Lover’s Version

Double the maraschino cherries for even more sweet cherry flavor.

Pecan Pineapple Cake

Sprinkle chopped pecans over the brown sugar layer before adding the fruit.

Spice Cake Version

Swap the yellow cake mix for spice cake mix for a delicious fall-inspired dessert.

Storage

Store leftover dump cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or enjoy it cold straight from the refrigerator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called a dump cake?

Because you simply “dump” the ingredients into the slow cooker in layers without mixing them together.

Can I use pineapple chunks instead of tidbits?

Yes! Pineapple chunks, crushed pineapple, or even pineapple rings all work well.

Do I drain the pineapple?

No. Pour the pineapple into the crockpot along with its juice. The juice helps keep the cake moist.

Can I cook this on Low?

Yes. Cook on Low for approximately 4 hours.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Simply reheat before serving and add fresh ice cream when ready to enjoy.

This Crockpot Pineapple Upside Down Dump Cake is one of those desserts that proves homemade doesn’t have to be difficult. With just a few simple ingredients and almost no prep work, you’ll have a warm, buttery dessert filled with sweet pineapple, cherries, and rich caramel flavor.

Whether you’re making dessert for your family, hosting friends, or bringing something sweet to a potluck, this easy slow cooker dump cake is always a crowd favorite. Once you make it the first time, don’t be surprised if it becomes one of your go-to dessert recipes.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a comment below and let me know if you stuck with the classic version or added your own delicious twist.

Be sure to check out our other dessert recipes.

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