Moist and Delicious Cherry Dump Cake Recipe

If you love easy desserts that taste like they took hours to make, this cherry dump cake is perfect. It is moist, sweet, and bursting with cherry flavor. You do not need any fancy skills or complicated techniques. Just a few simple ingredients and a little oven time and you have a dessert that everyone will love.

This cake is ideal for weeknight treats, potlucks, or even a last-minute dessert for guests. It’s quick, fuss-free, and makes your kitchen smell amazing while baking.

Ingredients Needed

• 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
• 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• ½ cup chopped nuts (optional, like pecans or walnuts)
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving

Step by Step Instructions for Cherry Dump Cake Recipe

Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Add the Cherry Filling

Spread both cans of cherry pie filling evenly in the prepared dish.

Sprinkle the Cake Mix

Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the cherry filling. Do not mix.

Add Butter and Nuts

Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. Sprinkle chopped nuts if using.

Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool for at least 10 minutes. Serve warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect treat.

Tips for Customizing the Cake

You can easily customize this cherry dump cake to suit your taste. Try using different fruit fillings like blueberry, apple, or peach for a fun twist. Swap the yellow cake mix for spice cake to add a richer, more complex flavor. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cherry filling can bring extra warmth and depth to the dessert. For those with nut allergies or if you prefer a simpler cake, you can simply skip the nuts without affecting the overall taste.

Nutritional Information

A serving of cherry dump cake contains approximately 350 calories, 12 grams of fat, 55 grams of carbohydrates, and 3 grams of protein. Using fresh or canned fruit adds valuable fiber and vitamins, making it slightly more nutritious. While the cake is indulgent and sweet, enjoying it in moderation or controlling portions makes it a satisfying and delightful occasional treat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cherry dump cake warm for the best flavor. Top it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It works beautifully as a dessert for family dinners, parties, or holiday gatherings. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2–3 days and reheated gently before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions