Name: Cherry Dump Cake Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-487152H33M2S
Total time: PT-487152H33M2S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling; 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (or white cake mix); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor); 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for added crunch)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cherry Dump Cake is a simple, no-fuss dessert that’s perfect for anyone who wants something sweet with minimal effort. The combination of sweet cherry filling, buttery cake mix, and a slightly crispy top makes it irresistible. The cake bakes up with a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft and juicy cherry filling. This dessert is so easy to make, even kids can help! Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.

Ingredients

2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (or white cake mix)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for added crunch)

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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

2. Prepare the cherry filling:

Spread the two cans of cherry pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out into an even layer.

3. Add the cake mix:

Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the top of the cherry pie filling. Make sure the cake mix is spread out completely to cover the cherries.

4. Add the butter:

Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the cake mix as possible with the butter so it bakes into a nice golden crust. If you like, you can sprinkle the cinnamon over the cake mix for added flavor.

5. Optional topping:

If you’re using nuts, sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans over the top of the cake mix for a crunchy texture.

6. Bake the cake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the cherry filling is bubbly. You may want to check on it towards the end to make sure the top doesn’t over-brown.

7. Serve:

Let the dump cake cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-12 (depending on portion size)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
Total Time: 50-60 minutes

Variations

Use Different Fruit Filling: You can easily swap the cherry filling with other pie fillings like apple, peach, blueberry, or mixed berries. Each will give a different but equally delicious result.
Coconut Cherry Dump Cake: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut on top of the cake mix for a tropical twist.
Crispy Top: For an even crispier topping, you can increase the butter to 3/4 cup. The extra butter will create a more golden, crunchy crust.
Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake: Add chocolate chips (1/2 cup) to the cake mix for a chocolatey flavor that complements the cherries.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, store it in the fridge for up to a week.
Reheating: To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or warm the entire cake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes, you can use a variety of cake mixes like white, vanilla, or even chocolate. If you’re using chocolate cake mix, it will pair wonderfully with the cherry filling for a chocolate-cherry flavor combo.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cherry dump cake ahead of time and store it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to warm it up.

Can I freeze Cherry Dump Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the dump cake before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the cake and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Bake it from frozen, adding about 10 minutes to the baking time. If freezing after baking, let the cake cool completely, then wrap it well and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

How can I make the topping crispier?

To get an even crispier top, use more butter (up to 3/4 cup) and make sure the butter is evenly distributed over the cake mix. You can also broil the top for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking for a golden finish, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Conclusion

Cherry Dump Cake is the easiest, most satisfying dessert you can make with just a few pantry ingredients. The combination of the sweet cherry filling, crunchy cake topping, and buttery richness creates a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether you serve it with a scoop of ice cream or just enjoy it on its own, this dump cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it for your next gathering or just as a sweet treat to enjoy any day of the week!