Introduction
Gooey Amish Pineapple Dump Cake is an ultra-easy, old-fashioned dessert known for its rich texture and sweet tropical flavor. True to its name, ingredients are simply “dumped” into a pan, creating a gooey, buttery cake with minimal effort and maximum comfort.
Origin
Rooted in Amish-inspired home baking, dump cakes became popular in American kitchens for their simplicity and reliability. This pineapple version reflects resourceful cooking traditions, using shelf-stable ingredients to create a crowd-pleasing dessert without complicated steps.
Cultural Significance
This dessert represents hospitality, practicality, and shared meals. Often served at potlucks, church suppers, and family gatherings, Gooey Amish Pineapple Dump Cake embodies the warmth of community and the joy of simple, homemade sweets.
Ingredients Quantity
- 2 cans (20 oz each) crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
Optional Additions
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Shredded coconut
- Cinnamon or nutmeg
- Cream cheese dollops
- Maraschino cherries
Tips for Success
- Do not drain the pineapple—the juice creates the gooey texture.
- Spread cake mix evenly for consistent baking.
- Pour butter slowly to cover as much dry mix as possible.
- Avoid overbaking to maintain softness.
- Let cake rest 10–15 minutes before serving.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread crushed pineapple evenly in the dish.
- Sprinkle granulated sugar over the pineapple.
- Evenly distribute dry cake mix on top.
- Sprinkle brown sugar over the cake mix.
- Pour melted butter evenly across the surface.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Description
Gooey Amish Pineapple Dump Cake features a syrupy pineapple base with a buttery, cake-like topping that bakes into soft crumbles and golden pockets. The contrast between juicy fruit and rich topping makes each bite warm, sweet, and deeply satisfying.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 360–420 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Sugar: 42g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Protein: 3g
Values vary depending on portion size and add-ins.
Conclusion
Gooey Amish Pineapple Dump Cake is proof that effortless desserts can still be incredibly indulgent. With minimal prep and comforting flavors, it remains a timeless favorite.
Recommendation
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Perfect for potlucks, holiday tables, or cozy family nights.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Enjoy this dessert in moderation by serving smaller portions or pairing it with fresh fruit. Using reduced-sugar cake mix or less butter can help balance indulgence with mindful enjoyment.