Tropical Slow Cooker Dump Cake: An Effortless Weight Watchers Friendly Dessert
Indulge in a truly delightful and incredibly simple dessert with this Tropical Slow Cooker Dump Cake recipe! Each scrumptious serving is worth a mere 4 Weight Watchers points, making it a guilt-free pleasure you can enjoy any day of the week. This unique “cake” masterfully blends the sweet, vibrant flavors of cherry pie filling with the tangy burst of pitted tart cherries and juicy pineapple pieces, creating a harmonious balance that will tantalize your taste buds.
For those who love an extra touch of tropical flair, the keto-friendly cake mix I opted for incorporated coconut flour, and I further enhanced this theme by adding some shredded coconut as a garnish. This really amplifies the island-inspired flavors, transporting you to a sunny paradise with every bite. However, if coconut isn’t to your liking, fear not! This recipe is wonderfully versatile; you can easily substitute your favorite yellow cake mix and choose garnishes that perfectly suit your personal preferences.
If you’re new to the world of dump cakes, you might be surprised to discover that this dessert is more akin to a fruit cobbler or a crisp than a traditional layered cake. The name “dump cake” is quite literal – you simply “dump” all the ingredients into your baking vessel, which in this case is a slow cooker, and allow it to cook to perfection without any tedious mixing or elaborate preparation. This hands-off approach results in a beautifully layered dessert: a warm, bubbly fruit filling forms the base, crowned by a tender, crumbly cake topping. It’s a testament to how effortlessly delicious baking can be!
One of the primary reasons I adore preparing this dessert in the slow cooker is the incredible convenience it offers. It frees up my oven for other dishes, which is particularly useful when hosting gatherings or preparing multiple courses. Moreover, on hot summer days, using the slow cooker prevents your kitchen from heating up, unlike conventional oven baking. This tropical dump cake truly is special; the extended, gentle cooking process in a crock pot ensures the cake emerges incredibly soft and moist. Meanwhile, the fruit mixture simmers and thickens beautifully, developing rich, slightly caramelized edges that add an irresistible depth of flavor and texture to the entire dessert. It’s a fuss-free way to create a memorable treat for any occasion.
Why You Should Try This Tropical Dump Cake Recipe
This Slow Cooker Tropical Dump Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a culinary revelation that combines ease, flavor, and a healthier profile. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe collection:
- It’s Effortless: The very essence of a “dump cake” is its simplicity. Imagine a dessert that requires virtually no mixing, no special techniques, and minimal cleanup. This recipe epitomizes ease – you literally just layer the ingredients into your crock pot, turn it on, and let it do all the work. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or when you simply want a delicious treat without spending hours in the kitchen. Even novice bakers can achieve spectacular results with this foolproof method, making it an ideal entry point into home baking.
- It Serves a Crowd: With a generous yield of over 10 servings, this dump cake is a fantastic choice for entertaining. Whether you’re hosting a small family dinner, a potluck, or a casual get-together with friends, this dessert is sure to impress. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a sprinkle of toasted coconut, and watch your guests rave about its delicious, tropical flavors. It’s an excellent way to provide a satisfying sweet ending for everyone without the stress of making individual portions.
- You Can Enjoy It Any Time of Year: Thanks to its reliance on readily available canned ingredients, this recipe isn’t confined to a specific season. Craving a taste of summer in the dead of winter? This tropical dessert will bring a burst of sunshine to your day. Its bright, fruity notes are equally refreshing during the warmer months, making it a versatile staple in your dessert repertoire. This year-round appeal means you don’t have to wait for fresh fruit seasons to enjoy a truly delightful and vibrant dessert.
- Weight Watchers Friendly: For those managing their intake or following a Weight Watchers plan, this recipe is a game-changer. At just 4 WW points per serving, it allows you to indulge in a rich, satisfying dessert without derailing your health goals. This thoughtful adaptation proves that deliciousness and mindful eating can go hand-in-hand, offering a sweet escape that aligns with your lifestyle.
- Deliciously Customizable: While the cherry and pineapple combination is a classic, this dump cake offers endless possibilities for customization. From different fruit fillings to various cake mix flavors and creative toppings, you can easily tailor this recipe to suit diverse palates and dietary needs, ensuring everyone finds something to love.
Recipe Overview
Here’s a quick glance at what to expect when preparing this delightful tropical slow cooker dump cake:
- Serving Size: 150g (approximately 5.3 oz)
- Number of Servings: 11 generous servings
- Time to Cook: 2.5 – 3 hours on HIGH
- WW Points Per Serving: A lean 4 Weight Watchers points per serving, for a total of 49 points for the entire recipe. (Click here to view the recipe in the WW app. A Weight Watchers login is required to access the link.)
Key Ingredients for Your Tropical Slow Cooker Pineapple Cherry Dump Cake
Gathering your ingredients is the simplest part of this recipe. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture:
- 20 oz can Light or sugar-free cherry pie filling: This forms the sweet, thick base of our fruit layer, providing that classic cherry taste while keeping the sugar content in check.
- 14.5 oz can tart pitted cherries in water, drained: Adding tart cherries introduces a welcome contrast to the sweetness of the pie filling and pineapple, ensuring the dessert isn’t overly saccharine. Draining them is crucial to prevent the cake from becoming watery.
- 20 oz can Pineapple tidbits or chunks, drained: Pineapple brings a bright, tropical tanginess. Whether you prefer smaller tidbits or chunkier pieces, remember to drain them thoroughly to maintain the desired cake consistency.
- 2-4 tbsp Light butter substitute (such as I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter! Light): This ingredient is key for creating a moist, crumbly topping. Start with 2 tablespoons and assess if more is needed as per instructions. It provides the necessary fat for the cake mix to hydrate and cook properly without adding excessive calories.
- Cinnamon, to taste: A sprinkle of cinnamon beautifully complements the fruit flavors, adding warmth and a subtle aromatic spice that enhances the overall dessert experience.
- 1 box Sugar-free or keto-friendly yellow cake mix: This is the “cake” part of our dump cake. Using a sugar-free or keto-friendly mix is essential for keeping the Weight Watchers points low while still delivering that classic yellow cake flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Your WW Slow Cooker Dump Cake
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious and Weight Watchers friendly tropical dump cake:
- Prepare Your Ingredients and Slow Cooker: Begin by thoroughly draining both the pineapple tidbits (or chunks) and the whole pitted cherries. Excess liquid can make your cake soggy, so this step is crucial. Next, lightly spray the interior of your 7-qt or 8-qt slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving later.
- Layer the Fruit Base: Evenly spread the entire can of cherry pie filling across the bottom of the prepared slow cooker. Then, distribute the drained tart cherries and half of the drained pineapple pieces over the pie filling. Finish this layer with a generous sprinkle of cinnamon, which will infuse a warm, inviting aroma into the fruit.
3. Add the Cake Mix and Topping: Carefully and evenly spread the dry sugar-free or keto-friendly yellow cake mix over the fruit layer. Try to avoid disturbing the fruit too much. Next, scatter the remaining pineapple pieces across the dry cake mix. Add another dash of cinnamon over the entire surface for enhanced flavor. Finally, melt 2 tablespoons of your light butter substitute and drizzle it evenly over the cake mix and pineapple. The butter is essential for hydrating the cake mix and helping it form a delicious, crumbly topping.
4. Initial Cooking Phase and Mid-Cook Check: Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 1 hour. At this point, it’s beneficial to perform a quick check and optional adjustments. If your slow cooker has hot spots, gently rotate the stoneware insert (if removable) to promote more even baking. This is also a good time to carefully fluff the top of the cake mix with a fork. Be gentle and avoid mixing it into the fruit layer below, as this can make the bottom soggy. If you observe that the cake mix appears particularly dry, you can add an additional tablespoon or two of melted light butter substitute to hydrate it further, but be cautious not to overdo it.
5. Prevent Condensation: After your mid-cook adjustments, re-cover the pot. To prevent condensation from dripping onto your dessert and making the topping soggy, place a layer of paper towels (or a clean kitchen towel) directly over the slow cooker opening before placing the lid on top. The lid will hold the towels securely in place, absorbing any steam. This simple trick ensures your cake topping remains perfectly crumbly.
6. Final Cooking and Doneness Check: Continue cooking the dump cake for another 1.5 to 2 hours on HIGH, or until it reaches the desired doneness. You’ll know it’s ready when the fruit around the edges is visibly bubbly and the topping has transformed from wet powder into a delightful streusel-like crumble. It’s important to remember that slow cookers don’t typically brown food as much as conventional ovens, so don’t expect a deep golden crust. Instead, the cake topping will be light, fluffy, and tender, with a pleasant, slightly crisp edge if cooked just right.
7. Rest Before Serving: Once cooked, turn off your slow cooker and carefully remove the lid (and paper towels). Allow the dump cake to rest uncovered for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This crucial resting period allows the dessert to firm up slightly and the flavors to meld, ensuring it’s easier to scoop and more enjoyable to eat. Serve warm and enjoy your tropical creation!
Creative Variations and Smart Substitutions for Your Dump Cake
One of the best aspects of this slow cooker dump cake is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with these ideas to customize it to your taste or dietary needs:
- Elevate Your Topping Ideas: Beyond simple shredded coconut, consider toasting it lightly for a richer, nuttier flavor and added crunch. For a truly decadent presentation, a drizzle of pineapple icing or a generous dollop of homemade whipped cream (or a light, store-bought variety) would be exquisite. You could also garnish with a few extra fresh or frozen cherries for a pop of color and tartness. A sprinkle of nutmeg or a pinch of cardamom could also add an unexpected layer of spice.
- The “Splurge” Version: If you’re not tracking Weight Watchers points as strictly or simply desire a richer fruit layer, you can certainly use two cans of cherry pie filling instead of combining one can of filling with one can of whole cherries. This will result in a more intensely sweet and gel-like fruit base, though it will increase the overall calorie and sugar content.
- Explore Cake Mix Types: The market offers a wide array of low-point cake mixes. Besides sugar-free or keto-friendly options, you might find lower-sugar mixes or even gluten-free yellow cake mixes. The Duncan Hines Keto mix is often a good find for its low points, but don’t hesitate to try other brands. The key is to select a mix that aligns with your dietary goals and taste preferences. Just be aware that different mixes may absorb liquid differently, so you might need to adjust the amount of butter substitute slightly.
- Oven Baking Method: If a slow cooker isn’t available or you prefer a crispier, more golden topping, this recipe can be adapted for the oven. Prepare the layers in a large baking dish, such as a 9×13-inch pan. Bake at approximately 350°F (175°C) until the fruit filling is bubbly around the edges and the cake topping is golden brown and set (no longer wet). This typically takes 45-60 minutes, but cooking times can vary. Keep an eye on the cake, and if the topping appears too dry or is browning too quickly, you might need to add a bit more melted butter substitute or loosely tent it with foil.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: For an extra layer of texture, incorporate chopped nuts into the cake mix layer or sprinkle them on top before baking. Walnuts, macadamia nuts, pecans, or sliced almonds would all work wonderfully, adding a satisfying crispy bite. You can lightly toast the nuts beforehand to enhance their flavor even further. A sprinkle of granola could also provide a delightful crunch.
- Different Fruit Combinations: While cherry and pineapple are a fantastic pairing, feel free to experiment with other canned fruits. Peach pie filling with sliced peaches, apple pie filling with a touch of caramel, or even a mixed berry blend could create equally delicious dump cake variations.
Expert Tips and Tricks for Mastering Your Tropical Slow Cooker Dump Cake
Achieving slow cooker perfection often comes down to understanding your appliance and making subtle adjustments. Here are some invaluable tips to ensure your tropical dump cake turns out flawlessly every time:
- Know Your Slow Cooker: Every slow cooker is unique. Brands like Crockpot (which I use) can have different heating elements and distribute heat differently. Older models might cook hotter or cooler than newer ones. It’s always a good idea to know your specific appliance and adjust cooking times accordingly. The first time you make this recipe, keep a closer eye on it, especially towards the end of the cooking cycle, to gauge your slow cooker’s performance.
- Prevent Overcooking and Burning: While slow cooking is generally forgiving, it is possible to overcook the edges of your dump cake. If you notice the fruit filling along the sides beginning to darken excessively or almost burn, gently use a rubber spatula to carefully go around the edges. This action helps to loosen any sticky bits and bring some of the less-cooked fruit mixture to the sides, ensuring even caramelization rather than burning.
- Address a Dry Topping: If, during your halfway check (around the 1-hour mark), you observe that the cake topping appears unusually dry or has floury pockets, don’t fret. This can sometimes happen if the cake mix isn’t absorbing enough moisture. You can add an additional 1-2 tablespoons of melted light butter substitute, drizzling it over the dry areas. However, with the natural liquids from the fruit and the condensation that forms inside the slow cooker, you might find this step unnecessary. Gently fluffing the top with a fork can often be enough to break up any dry flour pockets and help them absorb moisture.
- Promoting Even Cooking: My personal preference is to gently flip or rotate the stoneware insert of my slow cooker after the first hour of cooking. This is because my particular Crockpot often has a “hot spot” where heat concentrates. If you know your slow cooker heats very evenly, you can skip this step. However, if you suspect uneven heating, a quick rotation can make a significant difference in achieving a uniformly cooked and beautifully textured dessert.
- Understanding Portion Control and WW Points: This tropical dump cake is wonderfully rich and sweet, which is why the suggested portions are designed to be satisfying without being excessively large. The 11-serving division keeps the Weight Watchers points at a comfortable 4 per serving. If you decide to make the portions bigger, for instance, serving 9 people instead of 11, be mindful that this will increase the WW points per serving by approximately 1 point. Always adjust your tracking based on your actual serving size.
- Storing Leftovers: Any leftover dump cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, gently reheat individual portions in the microwave or a low oven until warmed through.
Related Weight Watchers Friendly Recipes
If you enjoyed this tropical dessert, you might also like to explore these other delicious and point-friendly recipes:
Weight Watchers Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Pineapple Coconut Breakfast Pie
Coconut Raspberry Chocolate Cake
Tropical Slow Cooker Dump Cake
Equipment
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7 or 8 quart slow cooker
Ingredients
- 20 oz can Light or sugar-free cherry pie filling
- 14.5 oz can tart pitted cherries in water, drained
- 20 oz can Pineapple tidbits or chunks, drained
- 2-4 tbsp Light butter substitute, I used I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter! Light, start with 2 tbsp and add more if needed
- To taste Cinnamon
- 1 box Sugar-free or keto-friendly yellow cake mix
Instructions
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As preparation, drain the pineapple tidbits and the whole pitted cherries thoroughly. Lightly spray your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
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Spread the pie filling, drained cherries, and half of the drained pineapple pieces evenly in the bottom of a 7- or 8-qt slow cooker. Sprinkle on some cinnamon for added flavor.
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Next, evenly spread out the dry cake mix over the fruit layer. Scatter the remaining pineapple pieces on top and add another dash of cinnamon over the whole thing. Melt the butter substitute and drizzle it evenly over the cake mix layer, ensuring good coverage.
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Cover the slow cooker and bake the dump cake on HIGH for 1 hour. After this initial hour, I suggest a quick check. You can optionally flip the slow cooker insert (if removable) to promote more even baking, especially if your slow cooker has hot spots. Carefully and gently fluff the top of the cake mix with a fork, being careful not to mix it into the fruit too much, as this can make it soggy. If the cake mix looks particularly dry, you may add 1-2 tablespoons more of the melted butter substitute to help hydrate it, but be careful not to over-saturate.
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Cover the pot again, but this time, place a layer of paper towels (or a clean kitchen towel) over the opening before putting the lid on top. This shield prevents condensation from dripping back onto the dessert, helping to keep the topping crumbly.
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Cook the dump cake for an additional 1.5 – 2 hours on HIGH, or until it is ready. It is done when the fruit is bubbly around the sides and the cake topping is no longer wet but has a streusel or crumble-like texture. Remember that the cake won’t brown as much in a slow cooker as it would in an oven; it will be light and fluffy with minimal crispiness.
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Once cooked, remove the lid and allow the dump cake to rest for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the dessert to firm up slightly, making it easier to scoop and serve.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.