Jacy Are you craving a sweet treat but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? Look no further than these dump cake recipes! Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, dump cakes are the ultimate no-fuss dessert. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, they’re perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or last-minute gatherings. Today, we’re sharing a classic recipe for a dump cake that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Table of Contents
Classic Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake
Ingredients
– 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained
– 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
– 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
– ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
– Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Dump the pineapple (with juice) into the baking dish and spread it evenly.
3. Layer the cherry pie filling on top of the pineapple, spreading it out gently.
4. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the fruit layer. Do not stir!
5. Drizzle melted butter evenly over the cake mix, ensuring full coverage.
6. Add vanilla extract (if using) and sprinkle nuts on top for extra crunch.
7. Bake for 40–45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
8. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving with whipped cream or ice cream.
This recipe for a dump cake is foolproof, and if you love easy desserts, you’ll adore these other dump cake recipes too!
Tips & Variations
– Swap the fruit: Try blueberry, apple, or peach pie filling instead of cherry.
– Make it chocolatey: Use a chocolate cake mix and add chocolate chips.
– Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free cake mix for a celiac-friendly version.
– Add spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg enhances the flavor.
Serving & Storage
– Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
– Reheat in the microwave for 20–30 seconds before serving.
– Freeze for up to 3 months (thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating).
Nutritional Benefits / Advantages
– Quick & easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal effort.
– Versatile: Endless flavor combinations to suit any taste.
– Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or family dinners.
– Budget-friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Stirring the layers: This can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy.
– Skipping the butter: Ensures a crispy, golden top—don’t skip it!
– Overbaking: Keep an eye on it after 40 minutes to avoid dryness.
– Using cold ingredients: Room-temperature butter and fillings mix better.
Conclusion for this Recipe
This recipe for a dump cake is a game-changer for anyone who loves dessert but hates complicated steps. With just a few ingredients and zero mixing, you get a warm, gooey, and irresistible treat. If you enjoyed this, be sure to explore more dump cake recipes for endless variations!
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Final Conclusion
Dump cakes are the ultimate lazy baker’s dream—minimal effort, maximum deliciousness! Whether you stick with the classic cherry pineapple version or experiment with new flavors, these desserts are guaranteed to impress. The best part? You don’t need any special skills or tools to make them.
From potlucks to weeknight treats, dump cakes are versatile, budget-friendly, and always a hit. So, grab a box of cake mix, your favorite fruit filling, and get baking! Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family—they’ll be asking for the recipe for a dump cake in no time.
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FAQs
1. Can I make a dump cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dump cake (without baking) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready. Alternatively, bake it ahead and reheat before serving.
2. Do I have to use butter, or can I substitute it?
Butter is key for that crispy, buttery topping, but you can use margarine in a pinch. For a lighter option, try coconut oil (though the flavor will differ slightly).
3. Can I make a dump cake in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Layer the ingredients in a greased slow cooker, cover, and cook on High for 2–3 hours or Low for 4–5 hours. The edges will be softer than oven-baked versions.
4. Why is my dump cake soggy on top?
This usually happens if the butter isn’t distributed evenly or if the cake isn’t baked long enough. Ensure the butter covers the entire surface and bake until golden and bubbly.
5. Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned filling?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the recipe. Use 4 cups of fresh fruit (like sliced peaches or berries) mixed with ½ cup sugar and 2 tbsp cornstarch to thicken the juices. Proceed with the recipe as usual.
Now that you’re armed with the easiest dump cake recipes, which one will you try first? Happy baking! 🍰✨
