Introduction
Cherry Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of cherry pie filling, buttery cake mix, and a touch of nuts for an irresistible treat. This simple yet sumptuous cake is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy evening at home. With minimal effort required for preparation, it makes an excellent choice for those who want a delicious dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Cherry Pie Filling: 2 cans (each 21 oz)
– Yellow Cake Mix: 1 box (15.25 oz)
– Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), melted
– Chopped Nuts: 1 cup (optional, walnuts or pecans)
Prep Time
The preparation time for Cherry Dump Cake is approximately 15 minutes. This includes gathering ingredients and layering them in the baking dish.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
– Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
– Total Time: 55-60 minutes
– Yield: Serves 8-10 people
Cherry Dump Cake is not only easy to make but also pleasing to the palate, promising a sweet and tangy flavor combination that everyone will love. With its fuss-free preparation and delectable taste, it’s a dessert that stands out and brings smiles to the table.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring that your cherry dump cake bakes evenly.
Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent the cake from sticking.
Combine Cherry Filling
Evenly spread two cans of cherry pie filling into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to ensure it’s distributed well.
Add Cake Mix
Sprinkle a box of dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cherry filling. Do not mix the cake mix in; simply let it sit on top.
Add Butter
Slice one stick of butter into thin pieces and scatter them evenly over the top of the cake mix. The butter will melt and create a lovely crust.
Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cherry dump cake warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added flavor.
Variations
You can substitute the cherry filling with other fruit fillings, such as blueberry or peach, depending on your preference.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake should be consumed within a few days for best freshness.
Make Ahead Option
You can prepare the cherry filling and cake mix in advance, then assemble and bake it right before serving for a fresh treat.
Cook techniques
Layering Ingredients
When making a dump cake, layering the ingredients correctly is essential. Start with the fruit filling at the bottom, followed by the dry cake mix, and top it off with butter. This allows for even distribution during the baking process.
Using Cake Mix
Opt for a store-bought cake mix to simplify the process. This not only saves time but ensures a consistent texture and flavor. You can choose your favorite flavor, but yellow or white cake mixes work particularly well with cherry.
Baking Time and Temperature
Bake the cake at the recommended temperature until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to prevent overcooking.
Cooling the Cake
Let the cherry dump cake cool for a few minutes after baking. This will help the layers set and make it easier to serve.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is excellent when served warm, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
FAQ
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute fresh cherries for canned ones. If using fresh, make sure to pit and slice them, and consider adding some sugar to sweeten if necessary.
How do I store leftover cherry dump cake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving if desired.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dump cake ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to cover it well to maintain freshness.
Is there a gluten-free option for the cake mix?
Absolutely! Look for a gluten-free cake mix at your local grocery store to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I make this recipe more decadent?
Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or a layer of cream cheese for extra richness.
Conclusion
This Cherry Dump Cake is a simple yet delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of cherries with a buttery cake topping. The ease of preparation makes it a perfect treat for gatherings or a cozy evening at home. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this cake is sure to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Peach Dump Cake
Swap out the cherries for peaches to create a sweet and juicy twist on the classic dump cake.
Mixed Berry Dump Cake
Combine various berries like blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries for a colorful and flavorful dessert.
Pineapple Coconut Dump Cake
Use crushed pineapple and shredded coconut for a tropical flavor that transports you to a sunny paradise.
Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake
Incorporate chocolate cake mix with cherries for a decadent dessert that chocolate lovers will adore.
Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake
Substitute cherries with diced apples and add cinnamon for a cozy fall-inspired treat.
Pumpkin Dump Cake
Replace fruit with pumpkin puree and spices to create a festive dessert perfect for autumn celebrations.
Lemon Blueberry Dump Cake
Mix lemon cake mix with fresh blueberries for a refreshing and zesty dessert option.
Strawberry Shortcake Dump Cake
Use strawberry pie filling and a pound cake mix for a fun take on the classic strawberry shortcake.
