You know that moment when you’re craving something sweet, but the thought of measuring, mixing, and making a mess has you reaching for store-bought cookies instead? This coconut dump cake solves that problem beautifully.

The beauty lies in its simplicity; everything gets dumped into a pan with no fancy techniques, no stand mixer, and no stress.

The result is an incredibly moist, coconut-forward dessert that tastes like it took hours to make.

This cake has become the go-to choice for busy weeknights, last-minute guests, and moments when a simple, foolproof dessert is needed. It never disappoints and always delivers bakery-quality results with minimal effort.

Ready to see how ridiculously easy it is to create a fantastic treat? Here’s everything you need to know about this dump-and-bake wonder.

Pro tip: Use full-fat coconut milk for the richest flavor and best moisture content in the finished cake.

Let’s Make This Tropical Paradise – Step by Step!

This coconut dump cake comes together with simple layering techniques that anyone can master. The key is proper layering order and even distribution.

1. Preheat and Prep the Pan

Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures everything is ready once the layering begins.

Make sure the oven is fully preheated before baking to cook through the cake.

Pro Tip: Grease the pan well or use parchment paper to prevent sticking when serving this sweet, sticky cake.

2. Pour the Crushed Pineapple

Open the can of crushed pineapple and pour both the juice and fruit into the prepared pan. Using the back of a spoon, spread it evenly across the bottom.

Don’t drain the pineapple – the juice keeps the cake moist and adds natural sweetness.

Pro Tip: The pineapple juice will activate the cake mix during baking, creating a tender cake texture.

3. Add the Coconut Filling Layer

Layer the sliced bananas over the pineapple, then drizzle with sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. This creates a creamy middle layer.

Distribute the bananas evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.

Pro Tip: Choose ripe but firm bananas that won’t turn mushy during the long baking time.

4. Sprinkle the Cake Mix

Take the box of cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the fruit layers. No mixing is involved – just create a dry layer on top.

Tap the pan gently to settle the mix evenly without pressing it down.

Pro Tip: Keep the cake mix layer even for consistent baking and avoid dry spots in the finished cake.

5. Add Coconut and Nuts

Sprinkle the shredded coconut and chopped nuts over the cake mix layer. This adds flavor, texture, and visual appeal to the finished dessert.

Toast the coconut lightly beforehand for extra nutty flavor if desired.

Pro Tip: Distribute nuts and coconut evenly so every serving gets the same amount of crunch and flavor.

6. Drizzle with Melted Butter

Melt the butter and slowly drizzle it over the entire surface, making sure to cover all areas, including corners.

Pour the butter in zigzag lines to avoid dry spots in the cake mix.

Pro Tip: The butter creates the golden, crispy top while providing moisture for the cake mix to bake properly.

7. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Bake in the center of the oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.

Check for bubbling edges and a golden top to know it’s done – don’t rely on toothpicks for dump cakes.

Pro Tip: Let the cake cool slightly before serving to allow the layers to set properly for cleaner slices.

Recipe Notes

Pairing Suggestions for Your Coconut Dump Cake

Complete your tropical dessert experience with these complementary accompaniments that enhance the coconut and pineapple flavors. These pairings create a well-rounded, sweet ending:

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Scoop creamy vanilla bean ice cream right on top while the cake is still warm for pure magic in every bite. The cold ice cream melts into the fruit and buttery layers, creating a temperature contrast that makes each spoonful interesting.

The vanilla flavors complement without competing with the tropical elements. Serve immediately while the temperature difference is most pronounced for the best experience.

Toasted Coconut Whipped Cream

Whip cream with a splash of vanilla and top with toasted coconut flakes for a light, airy contrast to the dense cake. This gives the dessert a beautiful finish while adding extra coconut flavor that ties everything together.

The toasted coconut provides textural interest and nutty depth. Prepare fresh whipped cream just before serving for the best volume and texture.

Fresh Pineapple Slices

Serve fresh pineapple on the side for a bright, juicy contrast that cuts through the richness of the buttery cake.

The crisp texture and natural acidity provide palate-cleansing properties between bites of the sweet dessert. This pairing emphasizes the tropical theme while adding fresh fruit nutrition. Choose ripe but firm pineapple for the best balance of sweetness and acidity.

Coconut Milk Latte

Pair afternoon servings with a warm coconut milk latte for flavors that match while creating a dreamy combination.

The coffee’s slight bitterness balances the sweet cake while the coconut milk echoes the dessert’s tropical notes. This pairing feels like a mini escape to somewhere tropical and warm. Serve the latte in clear mugs to showcase the creamy coconut milk layers.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

This coconut dump cake stays delicious for days and actually improves as flavors meld together:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Freeze: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and foil for 2-3 months of frozen storage.
• Reheat Gently: Cover with foil and warm at 300°F for 10-15 minutes to restore fresh-baked texture.
• Quick Warming: Microwave single servings at 70% power for 40 seconds with a damp paper towel cover.
• Make Ahead: Assemble completely and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh when needed.

Nutrition Facts

This indulgent coconut dump cake provides satisfying sweetness for special occasions and comfort food cravings!

Note: Values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients and portion sizes. This dessert is meant for special occasions when comfort and indulgence are the priority!

Customization Options for Every Taste

The beauty of dump cake lies in its adaptability to different flavors and dietary needs:

Fruit Layer Variations

Cherry pie filling instead of pineapple creates a different flavor profile with the same easy technique. Blueberry, apple, or peach pie fillings work equally well for seasonal adaptations.

Fresh berries mixed with a little sugar provide natural fruit flavors without artificial additives. Crushed mango or pineapple tidbits intensify the tropical theme for coconut lovers.

Cake Mix Alternatives

White cake mix creates a more neutral base that lets other flavors shine through. Butter pecan cake mix adds a nutty richness that complements the coconut beautifully.

Spice cake mix brings cozy fall vibes when paired with apple or pear layers. Chocolate cake mix creates decadent results for those who love rich, indulgent desserts.

Topping Modifications

White chocolate chips or butterscotch morsels add extra sweetness and interesting texture contrasts.

Cinnamon sugar sprinkled before baking creates warm spice notes that complement fruit flavors. Sliced almonds instead of pecans provide different nutty flavors and visual appeal. Skipping nuts entirely creates a smoother texture for those with allergies or preferences.

Dietary Adaptations

Sugar-free cake mix and light pie filling reduce calories while maintaining the easy preparation method. Coconut oil instead of butter creates dairy-free versions without sacrificing richness.

Gluten-free cake mix works perfectly for those avoiding wheat while keeping the same technique. Plant-based milk alternatives can replace coconut milk for different dietary needs.

Make Every Bite Count!

This coconut dump cake proves that the best desserts don’t require complicated techniques or professional skills.

The simple dump-and-bake method creates impressive results that taste like they took hours to make, when really they took just minutes to assemble.

Served at family gatherings, potlucks, or quiet evenings at home, this cake delivers comfort food satisfaction with tropical flair.

The golden coconut topping and tender cake layers create the kind of dessert that starts conversations and builds memories.

Try this coconut dump cake and share in the comments how it turned out – your family will think you’re a baking genius!