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Cherry Dump Cake Recipe

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4.7 from 58 reviews

This Cherry Dump Cake is a simple, delicious dessert perfect for any occasion. Made by layering cherry pie filling, dry cake mix, and melted butter, it bakes into a golden, bubbly cake with a crisp edge. Serve it warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a comforting treat that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling (or 4 cups of homemade cherry pie filling)
  • 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow or white cake mix
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons carob fruit syrup or agave syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Optional Toppings

  • Whipped cream
  • Vanilla ice cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cake.
  2. Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
  3. Add Cherry Filling: Spread the cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. If using fresh cherries, mix them with a little sugar before adding.
  4. Add Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow or white cake mix over the cherry filling without stirring.
  5. Top with Butter and Syrup: Pour the melted unsalted butter and carob or agave syrup evenly over the cake mix to ensure good distribution and even baking.
  6. Bake Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbly. Edges should be slightly crisp.
  7. Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired for added indulgence.

Notes

  • Do not stir the layers once assembled, as the distinct layers create the classic dump cake texture.
  • You can substitute carob syrup with agave syrup or honey, but carob syrup adds a unique flavor.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cake mix and ensure the pie filling is gluten-free.
  • This recipe can be doubled and baked in a larger dish if needed.
  • Allowing the cake to cool slightly helps it set for easier serving.