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Dump cake is my go-to when I want a nostalgic homemade treat with hardly any effort. With just a baking dish and a handful of pantry staples you get a golden bubbly dessert that is always a crowd pleaser. Whether you are preparing for a potluck or satisfying an evening craving this recipe comes together in minutes and shines year-round.
I whipped this up during a last-minute family gathering and everyone went back for seconds. Now my friends always request I bring this dump cake to every holiday.
Ingredients
- Cherry pie filling: brings a vibrant sweet tart layer and beautiful color choose a good quality filling for best flavor
- Crushed pineapple with juice: adds tang and moisture make sure you get pineapple in juice not syrup
- Yellow cake mix: gives the cake its golden crust opt for a fresh box for the fluffiest texture
- Unsalted butter, melted: creates that signature crispy topping always use real butter for best results
- Chopped pecans or walnuts: add crunchy nutty contrast use freshly chopped nuts and toast briefly if you want extra depth but leave out for a nut free version
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish so the fruit does not stick and cleanup is simple
- Layer the Fruit:
- Carefully spoon the cherry pie filling into the bottom of the dish spreading it into an even layer for consistent bites of fruit in every serving
- Add the Pineapple:
- Pour the crushed pineapple with all its juice right over the cherries doing your best to distribute it evenly so every bite is sweet and juicy
- Sprinkle the Cake Mix:
- Evenly scatter all the dry cake mix over the pineapple and cherry filling covering the fruit completely but do not stir or mix you want the layers to stay separated
- Drizzle the Butter:
- Slowly drizzle the melted unsalted butter all over the dry mix aiming to cover as much surface as possible this is the secret to those crispy golden pockets on top
- Add Nuts if Using:
- If you love a little crunch scatter the chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking pressing them lightly into the buttered mix
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place your pan in the preheated oven on the center rack bake for forty five to fifty minutes until the topping is golden and bubbling and some fruit juices are peeking through
- Serve Warm:
- Let your cake cool just slightly and serve warm plain or topped with creamy vanilla ice cream or fluffy whipped cream for a truly decadent finish
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My favorite part is how the gooey cherries shine next to crunchy buttery topping especially when you get a bite with a toasted pecan. This recipe always makes me smile remembering weekend afternoons baking with my grandmother who loved dump cakes more than anyone.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers covered in the baking dish or transfer them to an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake stays delicious for up to three days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave for fifteen to twenty seconds until warm again. If you want to freeze it portion into freezer safe containers and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swapping the fruit filling is a fun way to change up the flavor. Try apple pie filling in the fall or peach in summer. If you don’t eat nuts leave them out or top with toasted coconut instead. Sprinkling in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg over the fruit adds cozy spice notes.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve generous spoonfuls straight from the pan for rustic charm. A scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream takes it over the top. If you want to dress it up for a special occasion try a dollop of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry. This cake also works well with breakfast coffee the next day.
Cultural or Historical Context
Dump cakes have been popular in American kitchens since the nineteen sixties because they are quick budget friendly and crowd pleasing. They reflect classic potluck and church supper traditions where home bakers needed simple surefire recipes that travel well. This easy method is still beloved for its no fuss nature and endless flavor combinations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I substitute the cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use other fruit fillings such as apple, peach, or blueberry for different flavor variations.
- → Do I need to stir the layers before baking?
No, simply layer the ingredients in the baking dish and avoid stirring to keep the distinct layers and texture.
- → Can this dessert be made ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed warm, but you can assemble it ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
- → Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, salted butter works, but you may want to reduce any additional salt in the topping as desired.
- → What toppings pair well with this dessert?
Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream are classic choices for serving a warm slice from the oven.