Cherry Dump Cake: Because Life’s Too Short for Complicated Desserts

Welcome to the sweetest corner of our blog! Today, we’re diving into a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat: the Cherry Dump Cake. If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the juicy burst of cherries with the buttery goodness of cake, you’re in for a real treat. This recipe is a dream come true for both novice bakers and seasoned pros, offering a delicious payoff with minimal effort. So get ready to impress your taste buds and your guests with this effortlessly scrumptious dessert!

Cherry Dump Cake is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dessert that fits perfectly into a variety of occasions. Here are some of the best times to serve this delightful treat:

Family Gatherings – Whether it’s a cozy Sunday dinner or a large family reunion, Cherry Dump Cake is a hit with all ages. Its simple preparation means you can spend more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen.

Potlucks and Picnics – This cake travels well and can be served warm or at room temperature, making it an ideal choice for potlucks and picnics. Its vibrant cherry topping also adds a pop of color to any spread.

Holiday Celebrations – From Thanksgiving to Christmas, Cherry Dump Cake brings a touch of festive cheer to the dessert table. Its rich, fruity flavor pairs wonderfully with other holiday treats and can be a nice alternative to traditional pies.

Birthday Parties – If you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert that still feels special, Cherry Dump Cake is a fantastic option for birthday celebrations. Top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Casual Get-Togethers – Hosting a game night or a casual dinner with friends? Cherry Dump Cake is a no-fuss dessert that everyone will love. Its simplicity means you can whip it up in no time, leaving you free to enjoy the company of your guests.

Weeknight Treats – Sometimes, you don’t need a special occasion to enjoy a delicious dessert. Cherry Dump Cake is perfect for those nights when you want something sweet but don’t want to spend hours baking. It’s a great way to end a busy day on a high note.

Cherry Dump Cake

Ingredients

1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling (or 4 cups of homemade cherry pie filling)
1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow or white cake mix
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tbs carob fruit syrup or agave syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Optional toppings: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Spread the cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the cherry filling. Do not stir; let it sit on top.

Pour the melted butter evenly and carob syrup over the top of the cake mix. Make sure to cover as much of the cake mix as possible for even baking.

covering the cherry pie filling with cake mix, butter, and carob syrup

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and bubbly. The edges may be slightly crisp, which is perfect!

Let the dump cake cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.

closeup of finished dump cake after being sliced

Variations

You can mix in other canned fruit, like pineapple or oranges for a citrusy-twist.

Mix in nuts like walnuts or pecans, or sprinkle them on top before baking.

Sprinkle milk chocolate chips or white chocolate chips across the top before baking.

a scoop of dump cake with ice cream on top

FAQ

What exactly is a dump cake?

A dump cake is a type of simple dessert that requires minimal preparation. True to its name, you simply “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish and bake. There’s no need for mixing or elaborate steps, making it an easy and convenient option for a quick, delicious treat.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?

If you want to use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling, you’ll need to use a homemade cherry pie filling recipe. Fresh cherries can’t be substituted one-for-one for the canned cherry pie filling.

What type of cake mix works best for this recipe?

A basic yellow or white cake mix is the most popular choice for a cherry dump cake. However, feel free to get creative! A vanilla, coconut, or even a chocolate cake mix can add a unique twist to the flavor profile. Experiment to find your favorite combination!

Can I add other ingredients to the dump cake?

Definitely! One of the best things about a dump cake is its versatility. You can add ingredients like chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even chocolate chips to enhance the flavor and texture. Just sprinkle them on top before baking for an extra layer of deliciousness.

Cherry Dump Cake: Because Life’s Too Short for Complicated Desserts