Cherry Dump Cake Recipe
If you’re searching for a dessert that’s as joyfully simple as it is delicious, look no further than Cherry Dump Cake. This retro classic brings together juicy cherries, sweet-tart pineapple, buttery cake, and a crunchy nut topping (if you wish) in one glorious, fuss-free pan. Every scoop is the perfect marriage of fruity, gooey filling and golden, delicate topping. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few minutes of your time, you’ll have a dessert that’s guaranteed to delight at potlucks, holiday tables, or any night you crave a little something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cherry Dump Cake is its simplicity: just a few ingredients deliver big flavor and luscious texture. Each one plays a critical role, from providing moist juiciness to a golden, crisp top. Here’s what you’ll need and why they matter:
- Cherry Pie Filling (1 21 oz can): The star of the show, this thick, glossy filling brings pops of sweet and tart cherries to every bite.
- Crushed Pineapple, undrained (1 15 oz can): Adds bright, tangy sweetness and keeps the cake moist while harmonizing perfectly with the cherries.
- Yellow Cake Mix (1 box): The secret shortcut to a tender, golden topping that’s delightfully rich and crumbly. White or butter cake mix can also work!
- Unsalted Butter, melted (1/2 cup): Essential for that crisp, buttery finish on top. Melted butter makes it easy to drizzle and evenly moisten the cake mix.
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts, optional (1/2 cup): A sprinkle of nuts brings toasty crunch and nutty flavor—choose your favorite or skip if you want it nut-free.
How to Make Cherry Dump Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), so it’s perfectly hot by the time you assemble your cake. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of butter or nonstick spray. This helps prevent anything from sticking and makes serving the Cherry Dump Cake a breeze later on.
Step 2: Layer the Fruit Filling
Pour the entire can of cherry pie filling into your prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Next, pour the undrained crushed pineapple right over the cherries. Gently swirl or mix the two together—not completely, but just enough to disperse the pineapple evenly and marry those fruity flavors together.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
Open up your box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle the dry mix evenly right over the fruit filling. Try to cover all the cherry-pineapple goodness underneath completely, forming a nice even layer. Don’t stir—just let the magic of layering do its work.
Step 4: Add Butter and Nuts
Drizzle the melted butter as evenly as possible over the entire surface of the cake mix. If there are some dry patches, that’s perfectly okay—any bits still dry will bake up golden crisp. If you’re using nuts, scatter them over the top for a wonderful crunch in every bite.
Step 5: Bake
Pop the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is beautifully golden and the edges are bubbling with juicy goodness. Once it’s done, let the Cherry Dump Cake cool slightly so it sets up and is easier to serve warm.
How to Serve Cherry Dump Cake
Garnishes
Cherry Dump Cake is dreamy as is, but a finishing flourish of vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream takes it to the next level. The cool, creamy contrast is the perfect partner to the warm, gooey filling and crisp topping. You can also dust the top with a little powdered sugar for elegance or toss on a few extra chopped nuts if you’re feeling fancy.
Side Dishes
For a potluck spread or a special Sunday supper, serve your Cherry Dump Cake alongside other beloved classics like lemon bars, chewy brownies, or a bowl of fresh, lightly sweetened berries. And if you want a little refreshment, coffee, black tea, or a splash of cold milk pairs beautifully with the sweet-tart flavors of the cake.
Creative Ways to Present
Try scooping individual portions of Cherry Dump Cake into cute ramekins or mason jars for hassle-free serving at parties. You can even create a dessert bar with bowls of toppings like toasted coconut, white chocolate chips, or even a cherry compote for guests to customize their own treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let your Cherry Dump Cake cool to room temperature. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Stored this way, it keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors meld together, and some say it’s even better on day two.
Freezing
Cherry Dump Cake freezes surprisingly well! After cooling completely, wrap the baking dish in a double layer of foil or transfer slices to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for an easy, make-ahead dessert whenever a craving hits.
Reheating
To reheat, scoop your Cherry Dump Cake into a microwave-safe bowl and warm in 20-second bursts until heated through. For larger quantities, cover the whole baking dish with foil and reheat in a 325°F oven for 15-20 minutes. Add a fresh scoop of ice cream for extra decadence.
FAQs
Can I use fresh or frozen cherries instead of canned pie filling?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh or frozen cherries, just cook them down with a bit of sugar and cornstarch until thick and jammy before layering in the dish. The result will be a more homemade version of Cherry Dump Cake, and the flavor is unbeatable.
Is it possible to make Cherry Dump Cake gluten free?
Yes, simply swap in your favorite certified gluten-free yellow cake mix. Double check that your other ingredients (especially pie filling) are gluten free, and bake as directed.
What can I do if there are dry spots of cake mix after baking?
A few dry spots on top are completely normal and add a delicious crunch. If you prefer every bit to be moist, use a spoon to gently press the dry cake mix into the fruit mixture before baking, or add an extra tablespoon or two of melted butter over any stubborn spots.
Can I make Cherry Dump Cake in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the cake a few hours ahead and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Alternatively, bake it completely and reheat just before serving. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dessert for holidays and gatherings.
Which nuts work best in Cherry Dump Cake?
Pecans and walnuts are both classic, but feel free to use almonds or hazelnuts if you prefer. Or leave them out entirely for a nut-free version—the Cherry Dump Cake will still be irresistibly delicious!
Final Thoughts
If you want a quick and crowd-pleasing dessert with all the flavors of homemade goodness and none of the stress, Cherry Dump Cake is truly a must-try. Gather your ingredients, dump, bake, and watch the smiles appear—there’s just something magical about this easy classic. Give it a whirl and make it your own favorite too!
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Cherry Dump Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the sweet and fruity goodness of Cherry Dump Cake. This easy dessert is a perfect treat for any occasion, combining the flavors of cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple, and a buttery cake topping. Serve it warm with a dollop of ice cream for a delightful finish.
Ingredients
Cherry Dump Cake Ingredients:
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
- 1 (15 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the Filling: Spread cherry pie filling in the dish. Add crushed pineapple, mix gently.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle cake mix over fruit to cover.
- Drizzle Butter: Pour melted butter over the cake mix.
- Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving warm.
Notes
- Best served with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- You can use white or butter cake mix if preferred.
- For a tart twist, use sour cherries or lemon juice.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
