Cherry Dump Cake
Cherry dump cake is a classic, fuss-free dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious. With just a few ingredients and no mixing required, this treat delivers juicy cherries beneath a buttery, golden cake topping. Perfect for busy days, holidays, or last-minute guests, it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels homemade with almost no effort.

Ingredients List
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
1 can (15 oz) crushed pineapple (undrained)
1 box yellow cake mix
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Optional: Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Pour the cherry pie filling into the baking dish and spread evenly.
Step 3: Add crushed pineapple (with juice) over the cherry filling and gently spread.
Step 4: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top—do not stir.
Step 5: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped nuts.
Step 6: Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 7: Let it cool slightly and serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings
Makes 8–10 servings
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 320
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 13g
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
You can freeze cherry dump cake for up to 1 month.
Pairings/Suggestions
Serve with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Perfect with hot coffee, black tea, or a sweet dessert wine.
Seasonal Relevance
Great for summer picnics and potlucks, but also festive enough for holidays like Christmas or Valentine’s Day.
Conclusion
Cherry dump cake is the ultimate no-fuss dessert. With layers of sweet fruit, buttery cake, and optional crunchy nuts, it’s comforting, satisfying, and ready in under an hour. Whether you need a quick dessert or something nostalgic and crowd-friendly, this recipe is a go-to favorite.
Cherry Dump Cake
Course: Uncategorized8–10
servings5
minutes50
minutes320
kcalCherry Dump Cake is a quick and easy dessert made by “dumping” canned cherry pie filling and cake mix together, then baking until bubbly and golden. Its simplicity and rich cherry flavor make it a family favorite for casual gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
1 can (15 oz) crushed pineapple (undrained)
1 box yellow cake mix
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Optional: Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the cherry pie filling into the baking dish and spread evenly.
- Add crushed pineapple (with juice) over the cherry filling and gently spread.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top—do not stir.
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped nuts.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly and serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Use canned cherry pie filling for best results
Can swap cherry with peach or blueberry filling
Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream
Do not stir once assembled to keep layers intact
FAQs
Q1: Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook them down with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to mimic pie filling consistency.
Q2: Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Absolutely. Try chocolate, white, or even spice cake mix for a twist.
Q3: Is it supposed to be stirred?
No, don’t stir. Dump cakes work by layering the ingredients and baking as-is.