Dump Cake Recipe

Ah, the weeknight. The never-ending dance between work, errands, and the ever-present question: “What’s for dinner?” Enter the dump cake, a dessert so easy it practically makes itself. But don’t let the name fool you, this simple dish is an explosion of flavor and texture.

This past week, the exhaustion of the daily grind had me yearning for something sweet, but the thought of elaborate baking sent shivers down my spine. So, I turned to my old friend, the dump cake.

Here’s the magic: you literally “dump” your ingredients into a pan and let the oven work its wonders. My personal favorite is the classic cherry pineapple version.

Recipe

For this, you’ll need:

A can of cherry pie filling (21 oz) – tart and juicy, the perfect base.
A can of crushed pineapple (undrained, 15-20 oz) – adds sweetness and a bit of tropical flair.
A box of yellow cake mix (around 15 oz) – the secret weapon, provides the cakey topping.
A cup of butter – oh butter, how we love thee, for that golden brown, buttery goodness.

A cook pours water from a glass into the dough lying on the table.

How To Make Dump Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray (a little insurance against sticky situations).
Dump (gently pour) the cherry pie filling into the pan. Don’t be shy with the juices, they’ll add to the sauce.
Next, add the crushed pineapple, with all its juicy goodness.
Now comes the star of the show – the cake mix. Sprinkle it evenly over the fruit filling, creating a complete and beautiful layer.
Lastly, the butter. Cut it into pats and dot them all over the cake mix.

Pop the pan into the oven and let it bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling merrily around the edges. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time is pure bliss.

Once it’s done, take that pan out and let it cool for a bit. Then, grab a big spoon, dish yourself a generous slice, and prepare to be transported to dessert heaven. The warm, gooey filling meets the soft, buttery cake in a symphony of textures and flavors. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top? Optional, but highly recommended.

Variations Of Dump Cake

The beauty of dump cake is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

Peach Melba: Swap the cherry pie filling for peaches and top it with a sprinkle of almonds before baking.
Berrylicious: Use a mix of berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries) for a vibrant and tangy twist.
Chocolate Cherry Delight: Use a chocolate cake mix and add a handful of chocolate chips for an extra decadent treat.

The pastry chef cuts a sponge cake with cheese cream and strawberries. Pastry chef’s hands. Demonstrate the cut of the cake on a metal spatula. The concept of baking and desserts. Sweet recipes

Pro-Tips for Dump Cake Perfection

Don’t Skimp on the Butter: While it might seem like a lot, the full cup of butter is key to achieving that irresistible golden brown top and buttery flavor.
Freshness is Key: For the best results, use fresh ingredients. Opt for cake mixes with at least a few months of shelf life remaining.
Get Creative with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to experiment! A sprinkle of chopped nuts, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream can add another layer of flavor and texture.

Best Storage Method

This dessert is best enjoyed warm, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick and gooey treat.

So, the next time that weeknight slump hits, ditch the stress and embrace the dump cake. It’s a dessert that’s easy on you, but big on flavor, guaranteed to leave you smiling with a satisfied tummy.