Are you looking for effortless yet mouthwatering desserts that require minimal prep? Look no further than these recipes for dump cakes! Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, dump cakes are the ultimate solution for a quick, crowd-pleasing treat. And if you’re in a rush for dinner, don’t forget to check out some quick dinner recipes to pair with your dessert!
In this post, we’ll explore three irresistible dump cake recipes that are perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive in!
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 chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Spread the crushed pineapple (with juice) evenly in the dish.
3. Layer the cherry pie filling over the pineapple.
4. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the fruit layer.
5. Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, ensuring full coverage.
6. Add nuts (if using) and vanilla extract for extra flavor.
7. Bake for 40–45 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
8. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, pair this dessert with one of your favorite quick dinner recipes for a complete meal!
Tips & Variations
– Swap cherry pie filling for blueberry or apple.
– Use coconut flakes instead of nuts for a tropical twist.
– For a lighter version, reduce butter to ½ cup.
Serving & Storage

– Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Reheat in the microwave for 20–30 seconds before serving.
Nutritional Benefits / Advantages
– Quick and easy with minimal prep.
– Uses pantry staples for convenience.
– Customizable with different fruit fillings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Don’t stir the layers—dump cakes rely on even distribution.
– Avoid overbaking to prevent a dry texture.
– Use melted butter (not softened) for the best crunch.
Conclusion for this Recipe
This classic dump cake recipe is a foolproof dessert that never disappoints. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a sweet treat, it’s a winner. And if you need a fast meal before dessert, try some quick dinner recipes to save time!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Dump Cake

Ingredients
– 1 (15 oz) box chocolate cake mix
– 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
– ½ cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup chocolate chips
– ½ cup chopped peanuts (optional)
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch dish.
2. Mix sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter in a bowl.
3. Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish.
4. Sprinkle dry cake mix over the peanut butter layer.
5. Top with chocolate chips and peanuts (if using).
6. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
8. Cool slightly before serving.
Pro Tip: This decadent dessert pairs perfectly with a light quick dinner recipe like a salad or soup.
Tips & Variations
– Use chunky peanut butter for extra texture.
– Add a layer of banana slices for a twist.
– Swap chocolate chips for white chocolate.
Serving & Storage
– Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
– Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
– Freeze for up to 2 months (thaw before reheating).
Nutritional Benefits / Advantages
– Rich in protein from peanut butter.
– Quick to assemble with pantry ingredients.
– Perfect for chocolate lovers!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Don’t overmix the peanut butter layer.
– Use enough butter to avoid dryness.
– Check doneness early—dump cakes bake fast!
Conclusion for this Recipe
This chocolate peanut butter dump cake is a dream for dessert lovers. It’s rich, easy, and always a hit. For a balanced meal, pair it with a simple quick dinner recipe like grilled chicken.
Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake

Ingredients
– 2 (20 oz) cans apple pie filling
– 1 (15.25 oz) box spice cake mix
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Spread apple pie filling evenly in the dish.
3. Sprinkle dry cake mix and cinnamon over the apples.
4. Add walnuts (if using) for crunch.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
6. Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden.
7. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: This cozy dessert is perfect after a hearty quick dinner recipe like roasted chicken.
Tips & Variations
– Use caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
– Swap walnuts for pecans.
– Add a dash of nutmeg for warmth.
Serving & Storage
– Serve warm with whipped cream.
– Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
– Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Nutritional Benefits / Advantages
– High in fiber from apples.
– Warm spices aid digestion.
– Quick and comforting dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Don’t skip cinnamon—it enhances flavor.
– Use enough butter for a crispy topping.
– Avoid overbaking to keep it moist.
Conclusion for this Recipe
This apple cinnamon dump cake is like a hug in dessert form. It’s simple, spiced, and perfect for fall. Pair it with a savory quick dinner recipe for a complete meal!
Final Conclusion
Dump cakes are the ultimate easy dessert solution—minimal effort, maximum flavor! Whether you prefer fruity, chocolatey, or spiced flavors, these recipes for dump cakes have you covered. And if you’re short on time, don’t forget to explore quick dinner recipes to round out your meal.
Which recipe will you try first? Let us know in the comments!
FAQs
1. Can I make dump cakes ahead of time?
Yes! Most dump cakes taste even better the next day. Store them in the fridge and reheat before serving.
2. Can I use sugar-free cake mix?
Absolutely! Sugar-free or gluten-free cake mixes work well in dump cakes.
3. Do I need to refrigerate dump cakes?
Yes, especially if they contain dairy (like sweetened condensed milk). Keep leftovers refrigerated.
4. Can I freeze dump cakes?
Yes! Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
5. What’s the best way to reheat dump cakes?
For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. Microwaving works too but may soften the topping.

