Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my love affair with cherry dump cake! This dessert is the epitome of simplicity and deliciousness—seriously, it’s like magic in a baking dish! I remember the first time I made it, my friends devoured it in minutes, and I was left wondering why I hadn’t made it sooner. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a warm, gooey treat that feels like a hug in cake form. Trust me, once you try this cherry dump cake, it’ll become your go-to dessert for any occasion!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful cherry dump cake. Don’t worry, it’s super straightforward!
- 1 can of cherry pie filling (21 oz): This is the star of the show! Make sure to grab a good-quality pie filling for the best flavor.
- 1 box of yellow cake mix (15.25 oz): The cake mix does all the heavy lifting here. No need to mix anything else, just sprinkle it right on top!
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (1 stick): Butter adds richness and a lovely golden finish. I recommend using unsalted so you can control the saltiness.
- 1 cup of chopped nuts (optional): I love adding nuts for a little crunch! Pecans or walnuts work beautifully, but feel free to skip this if you prefer a smoother texture.
That’s all you need! Simple, right? Now let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Instructions
Alright, let’s get down to the fun part—making this cherry dump cake! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert in no time!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because starting with the right temperature ensures your cake bakes evenly and turns out perfectly fluffy. Trust me, a properly preheated oven makes all the difference!
Prepare the Baking Dish
Next, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish. You don’t need to grease it—just make sure it’s clean and ready to go. The cherry filling will create a lovely, gooey bottom, so no sticking will happen here!
Layer the Ingredients
Now, it’s time to layer! Start by spreading that cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of your dish. Make sure to cover every inch—no one likes a bare spot! Then, grab your yellow cake mix and sprinkle it over the cherries. You want a nice, even coating here, so don’t rush this part! Finally, slice your butter into thin pats and place them all over the cake mix. If you’re using chopped nuts, sprinkle those on top now for added crunch!
Bake the Cake
Pop your baking dish into the oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and bubbly. A light jiggle is okay, but if it looks too wobbly, give it a few more minutes.
Cool and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let your cherry dump cake cool for a few minutes before serving. I love to dish it up warm and top it with a generous scoop of whipped cream or ice cream. It’s the ultimate indulgence! Enjoy every gooey, sweet bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cherry dump cake is a true winner in my kitchen, and I’m sure you’ll feel the same way! Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:
- Super Simple: With just four main ingredients, this dessert comes together in a snap. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is!
- Quick Prep Time: You can have everything ready to go in just about 10 minutes. Perfect for those last-minute dessert cravings!
- Deliciously Decadent: The combination of warm cherry filling and buttery cake mix is simply divine. Each bite is a burst of sweetness!
- Customizable: Feel free to switch up the fruit filling or add your favorite nuts. The sky’s the limit with this recipe!
- Feeds a Crowd: With twelve generous servings, it’s perfect for gatherings, parties, or just a cozy night in.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love it! It’s a hit at birthday parties and family get-togethers. They’ll be asking for seconds!
Trust me, once you make this cherry dump cake, you’ll want to keep it in your dessert rotation! It’s just that good.
Tips for Success
Want to make your cherry dump cake even more amazing? Here are my top tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!
- Even Layer Distribution: When spreading the cherry pie filling, take your time to cover the bottom of the dish evenly. If there are any thin spots, the cake mix might not set properly, so make sure it’s nice and uniform!
- Don’t Pack the Cake Mix: When you sprinkle the yellow cake mix over the cherries, don’t press it down. Just let it fall gently, so it can absorb the cherry juices as it bakes, creating that delicious gooey texture.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. The top should be golden brown and a bit bubbly. If you see any wet spots, give it a few more minutes, but avoid overbaking to keep it moist.
- Let It Cool: I know it’s tempting to dive right in, but letting the cake cool for a few minutes helps it set up a bit more. Plus, that warm cherry filling will be easier to scoop!
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to mix things up! Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix for a little extra warmth, or swap out the cherry pie filling for peach or blueberry for a fun twist!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress your friends and family with a cherry dump cake that’s nothing short of spectacular! Enjoy baking!
Variations
One of the best things about this cherry dump cake is how versatile it is! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or to use up whatever fruit you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Peach Dump Cake: Swap out the cherry pie filling for a can of peach pie filling. The sweet, juicy peaches create a delightful twist that’s perfect for summer!
- Mixed Berry Delight: Use a combination of blueberry and raspberry pie filling for a berry explosion! It’s like a summer party in your mouth!
- Spiced Apple Cake: Replace the cherry filling with apple pie filling and sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg over the top before baking. It’ll remind you of cozy fall evenings!
- Chocolate Cherry Cake: For the chocolate lovers, consider mixing in some chocolate chips with the cherry filling. The combination of chocolate and cherry is simply divine!
- Nutty Coconut Cake: Add a sprinkle of sweetened shredded coconut on top of the cake mix along with the chopped nuts. It adds a tropical flair that’s oh-so-delicious!
- Almond Joy Cake: Add sliced almonds and shredded coconut to your cherry dump cake for a flavor reminiscent of the beloved candy bar. Yum!
The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and mix up the flavors! Whatever you choose, you can’t go wrong with this easy and delicious cherry dump cake base. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious cherry dump cake ready to go, let’s talk about how to serve it up for maximum enjoyment! This dessert is decadent on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can take it to the next level.
- Whipped Cream: A generous dollop of whipped cream is a classic choice! It adds a lightness that balances the rich cherry filling and buttery cake.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For a truly indulgent treat, serve your cherry dump cake warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The contrast of warm and cold is simply divine!
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of sweetness. It complements the cherries beautifully and adds a touch of elegance!
- Chopped Nuts: If you added nuts to your cake, consider sprinkling a few more on top of each serving for added crunch and flavor. It’s a delightful texture contrast!
- Fresh Berries: Garnish with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a pop of color and freshness. They make your dessert look stunning and add a burst of flavor!
- Chocolate Sauce: If you’re feeling a bit extra, a drizzle of chocolate sauce can turn your cherry dump cake into a chocolate-cherry dream! It’s a sweet twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
Whatever you choose to serve alongside your cherry dump cake, I guarantee it’ll be a hit! Enjoy the deliciousness and happy indulging!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional info for this scrumptious cherry dump cake! Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what to expect. Each serving (that’s one piece of this delightful cake) contains:
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 22g
- Protein: 3g
As you can see, this cherry dump cake is a sweet treat, so enjoy it in moderation! It’s a delicious dessert that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family, but you might want to balance it out with some healthier meals throughout the day. Happy indulging!
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! If you have fresh cherries, you can pit and slice them, then mix with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create your own filling. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness to your liking!
What if I don’t have a 9×13 inch baking dish?
No worries! You can use any similar-sized dish, but just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may vary slightly depending on the shape and size of your dish.
Can I make this cherry dump cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance! Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge before baking. When you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a warm dessert in no time!
How do I know when my cherry dump cake is done?
You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly. A gentle jiggle in the middle is okay, but if it looks too wet, give it a few more minutes. Trust your eyes!
Can I substitute the yellow cake mix?
Of course! You can use any flavor of cake mix you like. A chocolate cake mix with the cherry filling is a great combo if you’re craving something richer!
Is this cherry dump cake gluten-free?
If you want to make it gluten-free, just swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix. It’ll work just as beautifully!
Can I freeze leftover cherry dump cake?
Yes! Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It should keep well in the freezer for about 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving!
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative and use a dairy-free cake mix. It’ll still be just as tasty!
Cherry Dump Cake: 5 Simple Steps to Pure Delight
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious cherry dump cake that requires minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 can of cherry pie filling (21 oz)
- 1 box of yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 cup of chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the cherry pie filling evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix over the cherry filling.
- Cut the butter into slices and place them evenly on top of the cake mix.
- If using, sprinkle chopped nuts on top.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
- Can substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: cherry dump cake, easy dessert, cherry cake
