Cherry dump cake is a delightful dessert that has been a favorite in many households for years. Its simplicity and the sweet, fruity flavor make it a hit for all ages. Originating from the classic “dump” cake recipes, which involve layering ingredients and simply “dumping” them into a baking pan, this dish requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. The cherry filling combined with the buttery, crumbly topping creates a unique texture that is both satisfying and comforting.
This dish is especially popular for its no-fuss preparation. It’s a fantastic option when you want to serve something delicious but don’t have much time to spend in the kitchen. Whether it’s for a family gathering, a potluck, or a casual dinner, cherry dump cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients
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1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
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1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
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1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
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1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Substitutions:
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Cake Mix: You can swap the yellow cake mix for white cake mix, chocolate cake mix, or a gluten-free cake mix for dietary preferences.
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Butter: Replace with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
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Nuts: If you prefer a nut-free option, omit the pecans or use almonds or walnuts as alternatives.
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Fruit Filling: Try using blueberry, peach, or apple pie filling for a variation on the flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). -
Prepare the Baking Pan:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with non-stick spray or butter. -
Layer the Cherry Filling:
Spread the cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. You can spread it out with a spatula to ensure an even layer. -
Add the Cake Mix:
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the top of the cherry filling. Do not stir the ingredients together; the cake mix will bake into a crumbly topping. -
Top with Butter:
Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the cake mix. Be sure to cover the entire surface, but don’t worry if some areas remain dry – it will still bake beautifully. -
Add Nuts (Optional):
If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly on top of the buttered cake mix. -
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. -
Cool and Serve:
Allow the dump cake to cool slightly before serving. The texture will firm up as it cools, making it easier to cut into servings.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Don’t Stir the Cake Mix: One key tip when making a dump cake is to avoid stirring the dry cake mix into the other ingredients. Let it remain on top so it bakes into a crispy, crumbly texture.
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Perfecting the Topping: If you want an even crunchier topping, you can sprinkle a bit of sugar or cinnamon on top of the cake mix before baking.
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Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on your cake during the last 10 minutes of baking to ensure the topping doesn’t burn. If it’s getting too dark, loosely cover it with aluminum foil to protect the crust.
Variations and Customizations
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure your pie filling is gluten-free. This creates a delicious gluten-free version of cherry dump cake.
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Vegan: Swap the butter for coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute, and ensure the cake mix is dairy-free.
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Low-Carb: Try using a low-carb cake mix and sugar-free cherry pie filling for a low-carb dessert.
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Tropical Twist: For a tropical variation, swap the cherry pie filling with pineapple or mango. This makes for a fun and exotic twist on the traditional recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry dump cake is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with several options:
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Toppings: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of heavy cream.
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Side Dishes: This dessert pairs beautifully with a light salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the sweetness.
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Beverages: Serve alongside sweet iced tea, lemonade, or a light white wine like a Riesling to complement the dessert.
Nutritional Information
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Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
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Protein: 2g
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Carbs: 45g
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Fats: 18g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 30g
(Note: These values are approximations and can vary depending on specific brands and substitutions used.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make cherry dump cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it the day you want to serve it for the freshest taste.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cherry dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze cherry dump cake?
Yes, cherry dump cake can be frozen before baking. Just wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. To bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Closing Thoughts
Cherry dump cake is a dessert that checks all the boxes—easy to make, delicious, and loved by everyone. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something sweet, this recipe will never disappoint. Have fun experimenting with variations, and don’t forget to share your results with friends and family.
