Looking for a dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious? Say hello to the Slow Cooker Minister’s Delight with Nut Topping! This classic dump cake is a delightful mix of fruity goodness, cake-like topping, and a nutty crunch—all made effortlessly in your slow cooker.
It’s perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or when you just want to whip up something special with minimal fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hands-Off Cooking: Just dump the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do all the work. No need for mixing bowls or a hot oven.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of sweet cherries, tangy pineapple, buttery cake, and crunchy nuts will win over any crowd.
Customizable: Make it your own with your choice of nuts, add coconut for extra texture, or swap out the pie filling for a different flavor!
Perfect for All Seasons: Whether you’re enjoying it hot in the winter or serving it with a scoop of ice cream in the summer, this dessert is a hit year-round.
Ingredients
1 box yellow cake mix – Adds a rich, buttery cake flavor that pairs perfectly with the fruity filling.
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained – Brings a tangy sweetness and moisture to the dish.
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling – Adds color, sweetness, and a slight tartness to balance the flavors.
1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work best) – Provides a delightful crunch; choose your favorite or a mix!
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – Helps create a crispy, golden topping.
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional) – For a hint of tropical flavor and extra texture.
Ingredient Tips
Cake Mix: You can use a yellow cake mix for a classic flavor, but feel free to experiment with other varieties like white or spice cake mix for a different twist.
Fruit Options: While crushed pineapple and cherry pie filling create a classic combination, you can mix it up with blueberry, peach, or apple pie filling. Make sure to use canned fruit with its juice for the best results.
Nuts: Pecans and walnuts are traditional choices, but you could also use almonds or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor.
Coconut: If you’re a fan of coconut, don’t skip this! It adds a delightful texture and a sweet, tropical note that complements the fruit perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Slow Cooker
Start by greasing the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick spray or a bit of butter. This will prevent the dessert from sticking and make cleanup a breeze!
2. Layer the Pineapple
Pour the can of crushed pineapple (juice included) into the bottom of the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly. The juice helps keep everything moist and infuses the dessert with a tangy flavor.
3. Add the Cherry Pie Filling
Next, spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the layer of pineapple. This will create a beautiful, layered effect with pops of red and yellow!
4. Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit layers. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it out if needed. No need to mix—just ensure it covers the fruit evenly.
5. Drizzle with Butter
Pour the melted butter over the top of the cake mix as evenly as possible. This will help the cake mix cook and turn into a deliciously golden, crispy topping.
6. Add the Nuts and Coconut
Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the top of the buttered cake mix. If you’re using coconut, add it now as well. This will create a lovely crunch and add texture to each bite.
7. Cook the Delight
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on high for 2 to 3 hours. The cake is ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on it!
8. Serve Warm
This dessert is best served warm, directly from the slow cooker. Scoop it into bowls and enjoy it on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Serving Suggestions
- Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for a classic pairing.
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a spoonful of cool whipped topping.
- Drizzle: A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce can take this dessert to the next level.
- Garnish: Top with a sprinkle of extra chopped nuts or toasted coconut for a beautiful presentation and added crunch.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The topping may lose some of its crispiness, but it will still taste delicious!
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the slow cooker on low for about an hour.
Freezing: You can freeze this dessert for up to 2 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variations
Fruit Variations: Swap the cherry pie filling for blueberry, apple, or peach pie filling for a different flavor profile.
Cake Mix Alternatives: Use a white cake mix for a lighter flavor, or try a spice cake mix for a warm, cozy twist.
Nut-Free: If you’re avoiding nuts, omit them entirely or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pepitas for some added texture.
Coconut Lovers: Double the coconut for a more pronounced tropical flavor, or even use a coconut cake mix!
Gluten-Free: Make this dessert gluten-free by using a gluten-free yellow cake mix.
Final Note
This Slow Cooker Minister’s Delight with Nut Topping is the ultimate comfort dessert—simple to make, customizable to your taste, and perfect for any occasion. It’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Don’t forget to experiment with different combinations and make it your own!
Enjoy this sweet, fruity, nutty delight—your taste buds will thank you!
Slow Cooker Minister's Delight with Nut Topping
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 can crushed pineapple 20 oz, undrained
- 1 can cherry pie filling 21 oz
- 1 cup chopped nuts pecans or walnuts work best
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut optional
Instructions
- Grease a 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick spray or butter.
- Spread the can of crushed pineapple with its juice evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the pineapple layer.
- Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit layers, spreading it out with a spatula if necessary.
- Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix.
- Sprinkle the chopped nuts and optional shredded coconut evenly over the buttered cake mix.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2 to 3 hours or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
- Serve warm, directly from the slow cooker.