Cherry Dump Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cherry Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert. It takes just minutes to assemble, making it perfect for last-minute guests or when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to spend much time in the kitchen. With its vibrant cherry flavor, buttery golden topping, and simple ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time. You can serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-special touch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cherry pie filling
• Yellow cake mix
• Unsalted butter
• Optional: chopped nuts or shredded coconut for topping

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom.
3. Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cherry pie filling. Do not stir.
4. Slice the butter into thin pieces and distribute them evenly over the top of the cake mix.
5. If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top for added texture.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
7. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 12 people and takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 45-50 minutes to bake. Total time: approximately 1 hour.

Variations

• Mixed Fruit Version: Add a can of crushed pineapple or other pie fillings like blueberry or apple along with the cherry.
• Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake: Use chocolate cake mix instead of yellow for a rich twist.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free cake mix.
• Mini Cakes: Bake in individual ramekins for personal-sized portions.
• Nutty Crunch: Add sliced almonds, walnuts, or pecans on top for a nutty finish.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or bake in a 300°F oven until heated through. This dessert is best enjoyed warm.

FAQs

How do I know when Cherry Dump Cake is done baking?

The top should be golden brown and the cherry filling should be bubbling around the edges.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?

Yes, but you’ll need to sweeten and cook them down first to replicate the consistency and sweetness of pie filling.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it in advance and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving for the best texture.

Do I need to mix the ingredients?

No mixing is needed. The beauty of this recipe is in the layering—just dump and bake.

What kind of butter should I use?

Use unsalted butter to control the salt content, and make sure it’s sliced thinly so it melts evenly.

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes, white or spice cake mixes work well too. Chocolate is another great option for a deeper flavor.

Is Cherry Dump Cake supposed to be gooey?

Yes, the filling stays soft and gooey, while the top becomes crisp and buttery.

Can I freeze Cherry Dump Cake?

Yes, once fully cooled, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely. Ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup can enhance the flavor.

Why is it called a dump cake?

Because you simply “dump” the ingredients into the pan without mixing—easy and fast preparation.

Conclusion

Cherry Dump Cake is an effortless dessert that delivers big on flavor with very little work. Whether you’re making it for a casual family dinner or a potluck party, it’s always a hit. With its sweet cherry base and buttery cake topping, it’s comfort food at its finest—and even better with a scoop of ice cream on top.

Cherry Dump Cake

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Cherry Dump Cake is a quick and easy dessert made by layering cherry pie filling, dry cake mix, and butter—no mixing required. It’s baked until golden and bubbly for a sweet, gooey treat.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
• 3/4 cup (1.5 sticks) unsalted butter, thinly sliced
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or shredded coconut for topping

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cherry filling. Do not stir.
4. Distribute the sliced butter evenly over the top of the cake mix.
5. Optional: Sprinkle chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top for extra texture.
6. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling.
7. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream.

Notes

• Do not mix the layers—just dump and bake.
• For a richer flavor, try chocolate cake mix instead of yellow.
• Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat before serving.
• Can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 35mg