I’ve always been a fan of dump cakes, and this easy cherry dump cake recipe is one of my favorites. It’s a classic Southern dessert that’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or even a quick weeknight dessert.
The combination of sweet cherries and moist cake is a match made in heaven. I love how easy it is to make – just mix together some cake mix, cherry pie filling, and a few other ingredients, and voila!
You’ve got a delicious dessert that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. My family loves it when I make this for special occasions, and it’s also a great way to use up leftover cherries or other fruit.
Plus, it’s surprisingly healthy considering how rich it tastes – the cake mix is made with whole wheat flour, and the cherry filling is packed with antioxidants and fiber. I’ve even been known to sneak in some extra veggies like spinach or zucchini to boost the nutritional value without affecting the flavor.
Easy Cherry Dump Cake
4.8 from 1858 votes
A simple dessert made by layering cherry pie filling and cake mix, then baking until golden and bubbly. No mixing required, just dump and bake for a quick treat.
For a variation, use white cake mix or add 1/2 teaspoon almond extract to the cherry filling before baking.
Watch Video Of How Easy Cherry Dump Cake Works
This easy cherry dump cake recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering, potluck dinner party, or just a Tuesday night treat for my kids.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it stores – just let it cool completely before refrigerating leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
When reheating leftovers from storage, I recommend microwaving on high for 20-30 seconds per serving until warmed through and served hot with vanilla ice cream on top.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Dump Cake
Q: What is the origin of the dump cake recipe?
A: Dump cakes have been around for decades, but their exact origin is unclear. Some say they came from the Southern United States, where cooks would ‘dump’ leftover ingredients into a baking dish to create a simple yet satisfying dessert. Others claim they’re an old-fashioned European tradition. Whatever its roots, the dump cake has become a beloved treat around the world.
Q: Can I use fresh or frozen cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
A: Yes, you can use fresh or frozen cherries in place of cherry pie filling. Simply thaw frozen cherries and pat them dry with paper towels before using. You can also use fresh cherries as-is, but be aware that they may release more juice during baking than canned cherries would.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare this recipe ahead of time by mixing together all the ingredients except the cherry pie filling and letting it sit for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator before baking. Just remember to adjust your baking time accordingly if you’re using leftover ingredients.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
A: Unfortunately not – traditional cake mixes contain gluten due to the presence of wheat flour. If you need a gluten-free option, consider substituting with an alternative flour blend like almond or coconut flour.
Q: Can I customize this recipe with other flavors like nuts or spices?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different combinations of nuts (walnuts or pecans work well), spices (cinnamon or nutmeg are great additions), or even dried fruits (cranberries or raisins pair nicely). Just remember that these additions will affect both flavor and texture so adjust accordingly.
Q: How long does this dessert stay fresh after baking?
A: This dessert stays fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature when stored properly in an airtight container – just be sure to refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of baking if you won’t be serving them immediately.
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