Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this cherry dump cake! It’s one of those recipes that makes you feel like a rock star in the kitchen, even if you’re more of a “let’s wing it” kind of cook. Seriously, it’s so easy that it feels like cheating, but the results are absolutely divine! Just imagine the sweet, tart cherries bubbling under a golden, cake-like topping—heavenly! Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering, needing a quick dessert for a potluck, or just want to indulge a little on a cozy night in, this cherry dump cake is your go-to. Trust me, I can’t get enough of it! I’ve made it for birthdays, holidays, and even just random Tuesday nights, and every time it disappears in a flash. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious treat together!
Ingredients List
Alright, let’s gather everything you need for this cherry dump cake! Trust me, you won’t need to run around the grocery store for hours. Here’s the simple lineup:
- 1 can cherry pie filling: This is the star of the show! Look for a 21-ounce can of sweet and tart cherry pie filling. It’s what gives the cake its delicious flavor and moisture.
- 1 box yellow cake mix: Any brand will do! You want a classic yellow cake mix that’s going to create that lovely, crumbly topping. No need to fuss with eggs or oil—just the mix!
- 1/2 cup butter, melted: This is the secret to that golden, crispy layer on top! Just melt it in the microwave or on the stove. It’ll add richness and flavor.
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional): If you like a little crunch, add some walnuts or pecans! They’re totally optional, but they can really elevate the texture and flavor.
And there you have it! Just four ingredients (plus nuts if you want) that come together to make something utterly delightful. You’re going to love how simple this is!
How to Prepare Cherry Dump Cake
Now, let’s get down to the good stuff—making this cherry dump cake! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, scrumptious dessert in no time. Ready? Let’s go!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because it helps the cake bake evenly and gives you that perfect golden-brown top. Seriously, don’t skip this step—your cake will thank you!
Prepare the Baking Dish
Next, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a good greasing with some butter or cooking spray. This will prevent any sticky situations later on. Now, open that can of cherry pie filling and spread it evenly in the bottom of your greased dish. Make sure every inch is covered because this is where all the magic begins!
Layer the Ingredients
Now comes the fun part! Take that box of yellow cake mix and evenly sprinkle it over the cherry filling. Don’t worry about mixing or stirring—just let it fall gently on top like a cozy blanket. Then, drizzle the melted butter all over the cake mix. This will help it get that delicious, crispy topping we all love!
Add Nuts
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to add a little crunch, now’s the time! Go ahead and sprinkle 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) over the top. They’re completely optional, but they add a lovely texture and flavor that contrasts beautifully with the soft cherries beneath.
Bake the Cake
Pop that beauty into your preheated oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is a lovely golden brown and the edges are slightly bubbling. Just keep an eye on it—nobody likes an overcooked cake!
Cool and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let the cake cool for a few minutes (if you can resist the temptation!). Serve it warm, and if you’re feeling extra indulgent, top it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Trust me, this cherry dump cake is best enjoyed a little warm—it’s pure bliss!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly quick to prepare—just ten minutes of hands-on time!
- Only four simple ingredients (plus optional nuts) make it a breeze to whip up.
- Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner or a last-minute gathering.
- Deliciously sweet and tart flavor that everyone will rave about.
- One pan means minimal clean-up—yay for easy baking!
- Serves a crowd, making it perfect for potlucks or parties.
- Warm, comforting dessert that pairs beautifully with ice cream or whipped cream.
- Versatile—feel free to swap in different fruit fillings if cherry isn’t your thing!
Tips for Success
Alright, my fellow bakers, let’s chat about how to make sure your cherry dump cake turns out absolutely perfect every time! I’ve got a few trusty tips up my sleeve that will help you dodge any common pitfalls and elevate your dessert game. Here we go!
- Use a good quality cherry pie filling: Not all cherry pie fillings are created equal! For the best flavor, go for a brand that you love or even try making your own if you’re feeling adventurous. It really makes a difference!
- Don’t skip the greasing: Seriously, make sure your baking dish is well-greased or lined. This will prevent your delicious cake from sticking and ensure you have that lovely clean slice when serving.
- Spread the cake mix evenly: When you sprinkle the cake mix over the cherries, try to cover the surface as evenly as possible. This helps it bake uniformly and gives you that delightful topping all over!
- Butter is key: Drizzling the melted butter is critical for a crispy topping, so don’t hold back! If you want extra richness, you can even use a bit more butter than the recipe calls for. Yum!
- Check for doneness: Every oven is a bit different, so keep an eye on your cake during the last few minutes of baking. Look for that golden brown top and a slight bubbling around the edges—it’s a sure sign it’s done!
- Let it cool a bit: I know it’s hard to resist diving right in, but letting the cake cool for a few minutes helps it set up nicely. This way, you’ll get those perfect slices instead of a mushy mess!
- Get creative with toppings: While ice cream or whipped cream is a classic choice, you can also try drizzling chocolate sauce or adding fresh fruit on top for a fun twist. The possibilities are endless!
With these tips in mind, you’re all set to make a cherry dump cake that will wow your friends and family. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Okay, let’s talk nutrition! Here’s a quick rundown of the nutritional info for each serving of this delightful cherry dump cake. Just keep in mind that these numbers can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose, so take them as a general guide:
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
So, there you have it! It’s a sweet treat, but as always, enjoy it in moderation, especially if you’re pairing it with ice cream or whipped cream. Happy indulging!
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Absolutely! If you have fresh cherries, you can make your own cherry filling. Just pit and slice them, then mix with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to thicken. It’s a fantastic way to use seasonal fruit!
What can I substitute for yellow cake mix?
If you don’t have yellow cake mix on hand, you can use a vanilla cake mix or even a chocolate cake mix for a fun twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!
How do I store leftovers?
To store your cherry dump cake, just cover it with plastic wrap or foil and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just be sure to reheat it gently in the microwave if you like it warm!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cherry dump cake up to a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You’ll want to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What if I don’t have a 9×13 inch baking dish?
No worries! You can use any similar-sized dish, like a deep casserole dish or even a large pie pan. Just adjust your baking time as needed since different dishes can affect how long it takes to bake.
Can I freeze the cherry dump cake?
Yes, you can! Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It should freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
What toppings do you recommend?
I’m all about the classic ice cream or whipped cream, but you could also try a drizzle of caramel sauce or fresh fruit on top. It’s all about what makes your taste buds dance!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve savored every last bite of your cherry dump cake, let’s talk about how to store those delicious leftovers! Trust me, you’ll want to save some for later because it’s just as good the next day!
To store your cherry dump cake, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out. Pop it in the fridge, and it should stay good for about 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before you seal it up—nobody wants a soggy dessert!
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave. Just pop a piece on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for about 15-30 seconds, depending on your microwave’s power. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t get too hot! If you prefer it warm from the oven, you can reheat the whole dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
And there you go! Easy storage and reheating so you can enjoy this delightful treat whenever you please. Happy snacking!
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Cherry Dump Cake: 7 Reasons You’ll Love This Easy Delight
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious cherry dump cake that requires minimal preparation.
Ingredients
- 1 can cherry pie filling
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the cherry pie filling in the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the cherry filling.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix.
- If using, sprinkle the chopped nuts on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Serve with ice cream or whipped cream for added flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: cherry dump cake, dessert, easy recipes