If you ask me, cherry dump cakes are the best kind of lazy day dessert.
This sweet and simple treat combines juicy cherries with cake mix and butter to create something that’s way more impressive than its name suggests. The fruit bubbles up through the buttery cake topping as it bakes, making the most amazing combo of flavors.
It’s one of those recipes that takes practically zero effort but always gets people asking for seconds. Just dump, bake, and wait for the magic to happen – no mixing bowls or fancy techniques needed.
It’s a no-fuss dessert that’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just because you’re craving something warm and comforting.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Dump Cake
- 4-ingredient recipe – With just cake mix, cherry filling, butter, and optional almond extract, you probably already have most of these pantry staples at home.
- No mixing bowls needed – True to its name, you literally dump the ingredients in the pan – no whisking, beating, or complicated steps required.
- Perfect for beginners – If you can open cans and melt butter, you can make this dessert. It’s practically impossible to mess up!
- Time-saving dessert – With just 5 minutes of prep time, this is your go-to recipe when you need a quick dessert for unexpected guests or last-minute potlucks.
What Kind of Cherry Pie Filling Should I Use?
When it comes to cherry pie filling for your dump cake, you’ve got a few good options at the grocery store. The most common choice is the classic tart red cherry filling, which gives that perfect sweet-tart balance that most people expect in a cherry dessert. You can also try dark sweet cherry pie filling if you prefer a sweeter, less tart flavor profile. While name-brand fillings like Duncan Hines or Comstock are reliable choices, store brands usually work just as well in this recipe. Just check the can to make sure you’re getting real cherry filling rather than artificially flavored gel with just a few cherries mixed in.
Options for Substitutions
This simple dump cake is pretty forgiving when it comes to substitutions! Here are some easy swaps you can try:
- Cherry pie filling: You can swap the cherry filling with any other pie filling you like – apple, blueberry, peach, or mixed berry all work great. You’ll need the same amount (two 21-oz cans).
- Yellow cake mix: Feel free to use white cake mix, vanilla cake mix, or even spice cake mix (especially nice with apple pie filling). French vanilla or butter cake mix are good options too.
- Almond essence: You can skip this entirely, or try vanilla extract instead. If using vanilla, use 1½ teaspoons since it’s not as strong as almond extract.
- Salted butter: Unsalted butter works fine – just add a tiny pinch of salt. You can also use margarine, though butter gives the best flavor. Some folks even use coconut oil for a slight tropical twist.
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Baking
The biggest mistake when making cherry dump cake is pouring the melted butter unevenly, which can lead to dry, powdery patches of cake mix on top – instead, drizzle the butter in a zigzag pattern and make sure to cover all areas of the dry cake mix.
Another common error is stirring or mixing the layers together, which defeats the purpose of this easy dessert – remember, it’s called a dump cake because you simply dump the ingredients in layers and let them work their magic during baking.
To prevent a soggy bottom, make sure to spread your cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the pan before adding the cake mix, and resist the urge to open the oven door frequently while baking as this can cause uneven cooking.
For extra insurance against dry spots, try cutting your cold butter into thin slices and arranging them in a single layer across the top of the cake mix instead of using melted butter.
What to Serve With Cherry Dump Cake?
This sweet and fruity cherry dump cake practically begs for a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top! The warm cake and cold ice cream create that perfect temperature contrast that makes dessert extra special. If you’re not in the mood for ice cream, a dollop of fresh whipped cream or even Cool Whip works great too. For a morning or brunch treat, try serving it with a cup of hot coffee or a cold glass of milk – the combination of cherry and almond flavors pairs really nicely with both beverages.
Storage Instructions
Keep Fresh: Once your cherry dump cake has cooled down, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it on the counter for up to 2 days, but I prefer storing it in the fridge where it stays good for up to 5 days. The cake actually tastes amazing cold, especially on a warm day!
Freeze: This cake is perfect for freezing! Cut it into portions, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. This is super handy when you want just a piece or two at a time.
Warm Up: To enjoy your dump cake warm, just pop a portion in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. If you’re reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight first. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, and you’re good to go!
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 50-60 minutes |
| Total Time | 60-75 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 2800-3200
- Protein: 16-20 g
- Fat: 140-160 g
- Carbohydrates: 400-450 g
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon almond essence (optional, split use)
- 2 cans cherry pie filling (21 ounces each)
- 1 package yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup melted salted butter (1 stick)
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
While the oven is heating, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it thoroughly with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the dessert after baking.
Step 2: Combine Cherry Pie Filling with Almond Extract
Open the 2 (21-ounce) cans of cherry pie filling.
Stir in half of the 1 teaspoon of almond extract into each can (that’s 1/2 teaspoon per can).
Mix well to evenly distribute the almond flavor throughout the cherry filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Cherry Dessert
Pour both cans of the cherry pie filling mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to cover the bottom.
Next, take a box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the cherry pie filling, ensuring complete coverage.
Step 4: Add Butter on Top
Slowly pour 1/2 cup of melted salted butter (equivalent to 1 stick) evenly over the surface of the cake mix.
If you prefer, you can alternatively slice the butter into small squares and evenly distribute them over the cake mix instead of melting and pouring.
Step 5: Bake the Dessert
Place the assembled dessert in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors settle.