I call this Easter Dump Cake a spirit-lifter because each spoonful balances fruity tang and smooth texture. My relatives started requesting it whenever spring arrived, so I took that as a sign to keep baking. I found that it fits well on many Easter dessert tables, thanks to the candy eggs and the possibility of adding extra coconut.
I appreciate how it welcomes creativity. Pineapple juice blends nicely with cherry filling, leaving everything moist and flavorful. I also like tossing a few white chocolate chips into the mix now and then, which pairs well with the buttery cake layer.

Ingredients That Make This Cake Shine
A box of yellow cake mix and a can of crushed pineapple keep the base carefree. I usually select a high-quality cherry pie filling because it adds a fruity note that pairs pleasantly with the pineapple. Melted butter in two parts helps create a golden crust and a soft bottom layer.
I sometimes whisk white chocolate chips and heavy cream together for a quick sauce. That sauce isn’t necessary, but I admit that I indulge in the velvety addition when I want a mellow sweetness. Candy eggs on top round out the texture, and a sprinkle of coconut adds a light crunch.

One friend suggested using white cake mix instead of yellow. That worked well for a lighter hue, so feel free to pick whichever option suits your preference. Dairy-free butter and dairy-free chocolate have also been successful alternatives in my kitchen, which makes this dessert flexible.
Steps To Create This Festive Dessert

I always grease my 9×13-inch dish before doing anything else. A quick spritz with non-stick spray or a rub of butter prevents sticking. Then I shake half of the dry cake mix along the bottom, drizzle half the melted butter, and pat it gently to form a simple base.
I pour the pineapple, including its juice, right on top of that base. I drop cherry pie filling across the pineapple layer and lightly swirl them together. Occasionally, I mix them more thoroughly if I want a single pinkish tone, but swirling looks cheerful too.
Next, I heat the white chocolate chips with heavy cream, stirring to keep it smooth. This sauce melts quickly, so I don’t step away until it’s ready. I stream that sauce on top of the fruit, then sprinkle the remaining cake mix evenly across the dish.
I complete the top by drizzling the rest of the melted butter. This butter layer supports the crisp finish that emerges from the oven. Then I place the dish in a 350°F oven, giving it about 45 to 50 minutes to bake until the surface turns golden and the edges bubble.
I pull it out when the aroma spreads through the kitchen. I wait for about 10 minutes, so the cake can set. I scatter coconut flakes over the top and gently press candy eggs into the surface.
My Personal Twist And Variations
I learned that chocolate decorations also work well. I sometimes break up leftover chocolate bunnies, then press the pieces around the candy eggs. My neighbor once sprinkled crushed pretzels on top, and that salty crunch stood out in a fun way.
I find the best part is how adaptable this cake is. I once tried it with strawberry pie filling, and that tasted sweet and bright. I may return to that variation next year, although I keep cherry as my go-to option for Easter gatherings.
If you crave more Easter desserts, you may like an Easter Ombre Cake as well. I recently served that alongside this dump cake, and guests appreciated the playful layers of color. Another idea is the Easter Egg Pink Cake Roll, which features delicate cake rolled with a light filling.
Linking Other Dump Cake Favorites
I enjoy mixing fruit flavors, which makes me excited about the Lemon Blueberry Dump Cake option. That variation pairs sharp citrus notes with a comforting sweetness, and it follows a similar process. For those who love earthy warmth, the Spiced Pear Walnut Dump Cake offers a cozy flavor.
I like how dump cakes keep dessert preparation straightforward. Layers of fruit, a cake mix, and butter come together in a single pan. Easter Dump Cake just adds a cheerful twist with bright colors and seasonal candy.
Enjoying Each Slice And Serving Suggestions
I set the cake on the table while it’s still a bit warm. Family members tend to scoop large portions because the juicy fruit mixture begs for generous helpings. I sometimes top it with a quick spoonful of whipped cream.
I also noticed children often reach for the candy eggs first. That brings smiles and a playful vibe to any family meal. The toasted coconut shreds also complement the buttery crust, so I keep a little extra coconut on hand.
A friend asked me if the cake remains tasty once it cools. I think it tastes fine straight out of the fridge, especially on the second day. The texture becomes slightly firmer but still retains its pleasant fruit-and-cake union.
Closing Thoughts: Please Pin And Share

I treasure how this dessert has brought friends and family together over the years. You may find the same warmth in your own kitchen, especially if you enjoy interactive moments with loved ones. I hope you try it soon and make it a tradition in your household.
Feel free to save this recipe to your Pinterest board if you want to revisit it later. I look forward to hearing your experiences in the comments. Share your results or ask any questions, and we can all learn from each other’s tips and ideas.
Easter Dump Cake
A simple, layered dessert that combines juicy pineapple, cherry pie filling, buttery cake mix, and a festive candy egg topping. Optional white chocolate sauce adds a creamy touch to each bite.
Ingredients
- FOR THE CAKE:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or white cake mix)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and divided
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, with juice
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- OPTIONAL DECORATIONS:
- Easter candy eggs (such as Cadbury mini eggs or M&M's speckled eggs)
- Shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions
- PREHEAT THE OVEN AND PREPARE THE PAN: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- MAKE THE BASE CAKE LAYER: Sprinkle half of the cake mix evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Drizzle 1/4 cup of the melted butter over the cake mix. Gently press the mixture down with a spoon or spatula to form a light base layer.
- ADD THE FRUIT LAYER: Spoon the crushed pineapple with its juice over the cake base, spreading it evenly. Add the cherry pie filling by spooning dollops over the pineapple. Lightly swirl the pineapple and cherries together to create a blended fruit layer.
- PREPARE AND ADD OPTIONAL WHITE CHOCOLATE SAUCE: If using, melt white chocolate chips and heavy cream together in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth, about 3-4 minutes. Pour the white chocolate sauce evenly over the fruit layer to add a creamy richness.
- FINISH WITH REMAINING CAKE MIX AND BUTTER: Sprinkle the remaining half of the cake mix evenly over the fruit (and white chocolate sauce if used). Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup melted butter evenly over the top to help create a golden, crisp topping.
- BAKE: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
- DECORATE: Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes. Sprinkle with shredded coconut if desired, then decorate with candy eggs, pressing them gently into the top so they adhere without melting.
Notes
You can substitute white cake mix for yellow cake mix based on preference. For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free butter and omit the white chocolate sauce or use dairy-free white chocolate chips and cream alternative. Serve warm, room temperature, or chilled.
Nutrition Information
Yield
12Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 368Total Fat 17gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 43mgSodium 386mgCarbohydrates 52gFiber 2gSugar 31gProtein 3g
