Cherry dump cake is a beloved dessert that’s as simple to make as it is delicious.
With its rich cherry flavor and a delightful crumbly topping, this dessert is perfect for any occasion.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making cherry dump cake, from the ingredients and preparation to tips for perfect results.
What is Cherry Dump Cake?
Cherry dump cake is a type of “dump cake,” a dessert that’s known for its ease of preparation.
The concept is straightforward: you “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish, and then bake.
Despite the minimal effort required, the result is a warm, comforting cake with a crispy top and a gooey, fruity center.
Traditionally, dump cakes are made using canned fruit, a box of cake mix, and a stick of butter.
Cherry dump cake uses canned cherries as the base, creating a sweet and tangy flavor that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a cherry dump cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
1. Canned Cherry Pie Filling
This forms the base of your cake and provides the sweet cherry flavor.
However, you can also make use of the regular or reduced-sugar versions, depending on your preference.
2. Yellow Cake Mix
The cake mix creates a crumbly, buttery topping that contrasts beautifully with the cherry filling.
You can also use white or spice cake mix if you prefer.
3. Butter
Butter adds richness and helps the cake topping become golden and crispy.
You’ll need a stick (1/2 cup) of unsalted butter.
4. Optional Add-ins
For extra flavor, consider adding nuts, coconut, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cake mix before baking.
Equipment Needed
1. 9×13-inch Baking Dish: This is the most common size for dump cakes and ensures even baking.
2. Mixing Bowl: For any optional mix-ins or flavorings.
3. Can Opener: For opening the cherry pie filling.
4. Spatula: For spreading the ingredients evenly.
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating is essential to ensure that your cake bakes evenly and achieves the perfect texture.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
This step ensures that the cake comes out of the dish easily after baking.
3. Spread the Cherry Pie Filling
Open the cans of cherry pie filling and spread it evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Use a spatula to smooth it out, making sure it’s distributed evenly.
4. Add the Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the cherry pie filling.
Do not mix; just scatter the cake mix over the cherries, this will create a crumbly topping as it bakes.
5. Dot with Butter
Slice the stick of butter into small pats and distribute them evenly over the cake mix.
This will melt into the mix and create a golden, crispy topping.
If you’re adding nuts or coconut, sprinkle them over the butter at this stage.
6. Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes.
The cake is done when the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.
7. Cool and Serve
Allow the cherry dump cake to cool slightly before serving.
This gives the filling a chance to set and makes it easier to scoop.
Serve warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Cherry Dump Cake
1. Use High-Quality Ingredients
The better the ingredients, the better the cake.
Opt for high-quality canned cherry pie filling and fresh butter for the best results.
2. Don’t Overmix
When adding the cake mix, resist the urge to mix it with the cherry filling.
The “dump” method relies on the cake mix sitting on top to form the crumbly texture.
3. Adjust Sweetness
Depending on your taste and the sweetness of your cherry pie filling, you might want to adjust the sweetness of the cake mix.
If you’re using reduced-sugar filling, consider adding a bit more sugar to the cake mix or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
4. Experiment with Variations
Feel free to experiment with different cake mix flavors, like spice or chocolate, to create unique variations of the dump cake.
Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix can also enhance the flavor.
5. Check for Doneness
Baking times can vary depending on your oven and the specific ingredients used.
Check for doneness by looking for a golden brown topping and bubbling edges.
A toothpick inserted into the topping should come out clean.
Cherry Dump Cake Variations
1. Berry Mix Dump Cake
Substitute the cherry pie filling with a mix of blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries for a berry-flavored twist.
2. Peach Cherry Dump Cake
Combine canned peach pie filling with the cherry filling for a fruity blend.
3. Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake
Use chocolate cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for a decadent treat.
Add chocolate chips to the top for extra indulgence.
4. Nutty Cherry Dump Cake
Sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans over the top of the butter for added crunch and flavor.
5. Spiced Cherry Dump Cake
Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to the cake mix for a warm, spiced flavor.
Storing and Reheating Cherry Dump Cake
1. Storing
Store any leftover cherry dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
2. Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, until heated through.
Cherry Dump Cake for Special Occasions
Cherry dump cake is versatile enough for any occasion, and for a festive touch, you can:
Serve at Parties
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a crowd-pleasing dessert.
Holiday Twist
Add a sprinkle of red and green sugar crystals or edible glitter for a holiday-themed treat.
Potlucks and Gatherings
This dessert is easy to transport and serves a crowd, making it perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
Conclusion
Cherry dump cake is the epitome of a “no-fuss” dessert that delivers big on flavor.
With its simple preparation and delectable results, it’s no wonder this cake is a favorite among home bakers.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this guide provides everything you need to create a delicious cherry dump cake.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a sweet, comforting treat that’s as easy as it is irresistible.
