Slow-cooker desserts are a delightful way to enjoy warm, homemade sweets without spending hours in the kitchen. The Slow-Cooker Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake is an incredibly easy and delicious dessert that will have your taste buds dancing and your kitchen filled with enticing aromas. This recipe combines the classic flavors of pineapple, buttery cake, and caramelized brown sugar into a comforting treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 320
- Protein: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 26 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
Why Make This Slow-Cooker Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake
This cake brings back fond memories of classic pineapple upside-down cake but with a straightforward and fuss-free approach. The slow cooker creates a moist and tender texture, and the dump cake method means you don’t even need to mix all the ingredients in separate bowls. The result is a sweet, sticky dessert with a delightful caramelized topping and a burst of pineapple flavor; it tastes as good as it looks! Ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night at home, this cake elevates any occasion with its festive flair.
How to Make Slow-Cooker Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake
Let’s dive into the process of making this delicious cake in four simple steps!
Ingredients:
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, drained
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 3 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions:
-
Step 1: Preparation
Start by greasing the slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent the cake from sticking.
-
Step 2: Layering Pineapple
Arrange the drained pineapple slices on the bottom of the slow cooker. Feel free to get creative with the arrangement; you can even add a cherry in the middle of each slice for an extra touch!
-
Step 3: Mixing Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix with melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth. This batter will pour beautifully over your pineapple.
-
Step 4: Cooking
Carefully pour the cake batter over the arranged pineapple slices. Then, sprinkle the brown sugar and optional chopped walnuts on top. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
How to Serve Slow-Cooker Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake
Once done, serve your warm pineapple upside-down dump cake straight from the slow cooker. It pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with additional walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra flavor boost. This cake is delightful on its own or as a festive dessert for gatherings!
How to Store Slow-Cooker Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake
To store leftovers, let the cake cool completely, then cover it with a lid or plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze individual pieces wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy another slice.
Expert Tips for Perfect Slow-Cooker Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake
- Use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a fresher taste and texture.
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter.
- Ensure your slow cooker is set to low; cooking on high might result in an uneven texture.
- For a fun twist, swap the yellow cake mix for chocolate or spice cake mix for a different flavor profile.
- Always check for doneness a bit earlier to avoid overcooking!
Delicious Variations
- Coconut Twist: Blend in some shredded coconut with the cake batter for a tropical flair.
- Chocolate Delight: Use a chocolate cake mix and layer with chocolate chips along with the pineapple for a decadent variation.
- Fruit Medley: Mix in chopped cherries or peaches with the pineapple for a fruity goodness explosion.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Just use a gluten-free cake mix, and enjoy a gluten-free version of this delicious dessert. -
Can I prepare this cake in advance?
You can prep it by arranging the pineapple ahead of time, but it’s best to add the batter just before cooking for optimal freshness. -
What can I use instead of brown sugar?
You can substitute light or dark brown sugar with granulated sugar or maple syrup, but the taste and texture may vary slightly. -
Is it necessary to use nuts?
No, nuts are optional. If you’re allergic or prefer a nut-free dessert, you can omit them without issue. -
How do I know when the cake is done cooking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready!
Conclusion
The Slow-Cooker Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake is an irresistible dessert that brings the joy of classic flavors with a modern twist. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a perfect choice for any time of year. So gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and indulge in a warm, sweet slice that’s bound to become a family favorite! Enjoy your sweet journey!
Print
Slow-Cooker Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake
- Total Time: 195 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
An easy and delicious dessert that combines the classic flavors of pineapple, buttery cake, and caramelized brown sugar, made effortlessly in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, drained
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 3 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Grease the slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the drained pineapple slices on the bottom of the slow cooker.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
- Pour the cake batter over the pineapple slices, sprinkle brown sugar and walnuts on top, cover, and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours.
Notes
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
