Cherry Dump Cake is the ultimate feel-good, fuss-free dessert you’ll want to make (and eat!) on repeat. Just picture tart cherries colliding with juicy pineapple under a golden, buttery cake topping—it’s got that old-fashioned, potluck magic with hardly any effort at all. Whether you’re hosting brunch, celebrating with friends, or craving something sweet on a weeknight, this dependable classic is always a hit. Best of all, you only need a few pantry staples to create layers of flavor the whole table will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Cherry Dump Cake lies in its no-fuss lineup of ingredients—each one does something special, from rich fruitiness to that signature crunchy, golden crown. Grab your cans and a box of cake mix, and you’re already halfway to dessert bliss!
- Cherry Pie Filling (1 21-oz can): Provides tart, vibrant flavor and gorgeous color, giving the cake its sunny personality.
- Crushed Pineapple (1 15-oz can, undrained): Adds a burst of tropical sweetness and keeps the filling juicy—don’t drain, that liquid is flavor gold!
- Yellow Cake Mix (1 box): The shortcut superstar—sprinkle it dry for an irresistibly crisp, buttery topping.
- Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, sliced into thin pats): Melts down over the cake mix, creating pockets of flavor and richness in every bite.
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (1/2 cup, optional): For a toasty crunch and nutty aroma, don’t skip this if you love texture.
- Nonstick Cooking Spray: Ensures easy cleanup and prevents your dessert masterpiece from sticking to the pan.
How to Make Cherry Dump Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This step sets you up for success with easy serving and no messy sticking later on.
Step 2: Mix the Fruit Base
Pour the cherry pie filling and undrained crushed pineapple into the prepared baking dish. Gently stir to combine, spreading the fruit evenly across the bottom. This delicious duo forms a colorful, juicy base that will bubble up beneath the cake layer as it bakes.
Step 3: Top with Cake Mix
Now, sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit mixture, using your hands or a spoon to make sure every bit of fruit is covered. Resist the urge to stir—keeping the layers separate is the secret to that perfect dump cake texture.
Step 4: Add Butter and Nuts
Arrange the thin slices of butter evenly over the entire surface. If you’re adding nuts, sprinkle them over the buttered top. As the cake bakes, the butter will melt down, transforming the mix into a golden, dreamy topping.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Bake for 45–50 minutes, until the topping is beautifully golden and the filling is bubbling up around the edges. Let your Cherry Dump Cake cool for at least 15 minutes—this makes serving easier and helps all those juicy flavors meld together.
How to Serve Cherry Dump Cake
Garnishes
The finishing touches can turn a simple Cherry Dump Cake into something truly special. Classic vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream balances the warmth with creamy coolness, while a sprinkle of extra chopped nuts or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce makes for a festive flourish.
Side Dishes
Since this dessert is rich and sweet, pair it with lighter nibbles. A bowl of fresh berries or a citrusy fruit salad helps cut the richness, and coffee or herbal tea makes a classic match for the gooey, buttery layers.
Creative Ways to Present
Give your Cherry Dump Cake a personal twist by serving it in individual ramekins or mason jars for a stylish presentation. You can also try layering it trifles-style with extra whipped cream, or offer a toppings bar with coconut flakes, chocolate shavings, or toasted almonds for a party-ready dessert station.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover Cherry Dump Cake tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, although the topping may lose a bit of its crispness.
Freezing
Yes, Cherry Dump Cake freezes surprisingly well! Once completely cooled, wrap individual portions or the whole pan tightly with heavy-duty foil or freezer wrap and stash it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To recapture that just-baked magic, warm Cherry Dump Cake in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for 30–60 seconds on medium power, but the oven helps restore the top’s crispness.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix flavor in Cherry Dump Cake?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is classic, feel free to swap in white, French vanilla, or even chocolate for a whole new flavor spin. Each one brings something different, so have fun experimenting based on your craving.
Do I need to stir the cake mix into the fruit?
No stirring required! Simply sprinkle the dry cake mix over the fruit and let the butter do its work as it bakes. This technique keeps those lovely layers and distinct textures intact.
Should I drain the pineapple?
Don’t drain it! The juice from the pineapple is key for keeping the filling moist and flavorful. Just pour the entire can in for perfectly gooey results.
Can I make Cherry Dump Cake gluten-free?
Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free yellow cake mix in place of the regular version. The rest of the recipe works just the same, so gluten-free guests can enjoy every bite.
How can I make Cherry Dump Cake less sweet?
If you prefer a less-sweet dessert, try using a no-sugar-added cherry pie filling or reduce the amount of cake mix sprinkled on top. Serving with tangy Greek yogurt instead of ice cream also balances the flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sharing a Cherry Dump Cake, especially when you see how little effort turns into such big, joyful flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned home baker or just need a quick crowd-pleaser, this classic treasure never disappoints. Give it a try—you may just find your new favorite go-to dessert!
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Cherry Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cherry Dump Cake is a simple and delicious dessert that combines the sweet flavors of cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple with a buttery yellow cake mix. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a cozy night at home.
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 (sliced into thin pats)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Prepare the fruit mixture: Pour the cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple into the dish and stir gently to combine.
- Add the cake mix: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the fruit mixture, covering it completely.
- Top with butter and nuts: Arrange the butter slices evenly on top of the cake mix. Optionally, sprinkle chopped nuts over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 45–50 minutes until the top is golden and the filling is bubbly.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Experiment with different cake mixes or flavorings for a unique twist.
- Best when served fresh but can be stored in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
