Carrot Dump Cake: The Ridiculously Easy Dessert You’ll Want to Make Again

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Carrot dump cake is the answer when I want something sweet, a little nostalgic, and outrageously simple to pull together.

Unlike traditional carrot cake, this dessert takes almost no effort and packs in the cozy flavor of carrots, warm spice, pineapple, coconut, and crunchy pecans.

If you’re a fan of dump cakes, you already know how easy these desserts come together without bowls or complicated steps.

Today I’m sharing everything you need to make an irresistible carrot dump cake, including the exact ingredients and foolproof instructions, so you can skip any guesswork.

Why You’ll Love Carrot Dump Cake

Carrot dump cake makes dessert easy without skimping on flavor.

The best part is you don’t need to be a skilled baker or spend hours in the kitchen.

With this recipe, everything goes straight into one pan.

The carrot cake mix gives it that warm, spiced character that people expect, while the pineapple and coconut add sweetness and a little chewy surprise in every bite.

Chopped pecans on top add a satisfying crunch.

It’s a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, holiday gatherings, or even weeknight dinners.

I love how each bite is a mix of textures: soft cake, bits of juicy pineapple, and crisp, buttery nuts.

If you want a dessert that will have people asking for the recipe, this carrot dump cake delivers every time.

Exact Ingredients & Equipment Needed for Carrot Dump Cake

Getting this recipe right starts with the right ingredients and tools. Here’s everything you need. No substitutions, no confusion.

Complete Ingredient List

• 1 box carrot cake mix

• 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, undrained

• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

• 1 cup chopped pecans

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted

Equipment Checklist

• 9x13 inch baking pan

• Measuring cups

• Can opener

• Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl (to melt butter)

• Spoon or spatula

How to Make Carrot Dump Cake: Step-by-Step Directions

This carrot dump cake is as simple as it gets. Commit these easy steps to memory, and baking a legendary dessert will become second nature.

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease your 9x13 inch pan with a bit of butter or a nonstick spray. This step makes sure your cake comes out clean every time, with no sticky corners left behind.

Step 2: Add the Carrot Cake Mix

Open your box of carrot cake mix. Sprinkle it evenly across the bottom of the pan. Don’t press it down or mix it, just cover the base with a layer of dry cake mix.

Step 3: Add Pineapple and Coconut

Open the can of crushed pineapple and pour it (juice and all) right over the cake mix. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the pineapple out, making sure every corner gets covered.

Sprinkle the sweetened shredded coconut on top of the pineapple layer. The juice will soak into the cake mix, giving it a moist and tender crumb.

Step 4: Add Chopped Pecans

Scatter the chopped pecans over the coconut, making sure they’re spread evenly. The nuts will toast as the cake bakes, turning golden and fragrant.

Step 5: Top with Melted Butter

Melt the butter in a small saucepan or in the microwave. Drizzle the melted butter slowly over the top of the cake, covering as much of the surface as you can. The butter helps everything brown and form that signature crumbly topping.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top looks golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. The cake will firm up as it sits, making it easier to scoop.

I love serving carrot dump cake warm, straight from the pan, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The warm, spiced cake, gooey fruit, and crisp topping pair beautifully with something cold and creamy.

Tips for Perfect Results Every Time

While carrot dump cake is incredibly forgiving, a few simple tips will ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time.

First, don't skip the undrained pineapple – that extra juice is essential for creating the moist texture that makes this cake so irresistible.

The liquid helps activate the cake mix and prevents dry spots.

When melting your butter, make sure it's completely melted but not scorching hot.

Pour it slowly and try to cover the entire surface as evenly as possible. This creates that beautiful golden crust that dump cakes are famous for.

If you notice any dry patches of cake mix showing through, add a little more melted butter to those spots.

Insulated Casserole Carrier

Ceramic Casserole Dish with Lid

Dessert Must-Haves

Creative Variations to Try

Once you've mastered the basic recipe, consider these delicious variations.

Swap the pecans for walnuts or even toasted almonds for a different nutty flavor. You can also add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries with the coconut for extra bursts of sweetness.

For chocolate lovers, try sprinkling mini chocolate chips over the coconut layer before adding the pecans.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Carrot dump cake tastes amazing both warm and at room temperature. For the best texture, let it cool completely before covering and storing.

It will keep in the refrigerator for up to five days, and individual portions reheat beautifully in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.

This makes it perfect for meal prep desserts or unexpected guests.

The flavors actually develop and improve after the first day, making leftovers even more delicious than the original serving.

Conclusion

Carrot dump cake brings all the comfort of classic carrot cake with barely any work at all.

The layers of flavor — carrot spice, juicy pineapple, chewy coconut, and buttery pecans — make it taste like you spent hours baking.

This no-fuss approach wins every time, especially when you want something sweet in a hurry.

Try out this carrot dump cake next time you’re craving dessert or hosting friends. It holds up well at room temperature, so you can make it in advance.

Store any leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to three days, and reheat pieces as needed. Serve it on its own, or add whipped topping or ice cream for an extra treat.

I wouldn’t be surprised if it becomes your new favorite easy dessert.