Cherry Dump Cake – The Easiest Classic Dessert Everyone Loves
If you’re looking for a dessert that feels nostalgic, comforting, and unbelievably easy to make, Cherry Dump Cake is the answer. This classic American dessert has stood the test of time for good reason—it requires minimal ingredients, no mixing bowls, and delivers big flavor with almost no effort. Whether you’re baking for a potluck, holiday gathering, weeknight dessert, or last-minute guests, cherry dump cake is one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again.
What makes a dump cake so special is right there in the name: you simply “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish, layer by layer, and let the oven do the rest. No complicated steps, no fancy techniques, and no stress. Just sweet cherries, buttery cake topping, and a golden, bubbly finish that tastes amazing served warm.
This version of cherry dump cake includes a subtle caramel-like sweetness from brown sugar and carob fruit syrup (or agave), adding depth and richness to the classic recipe while still keeping it incredibly simple. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the perfect cherry dump cake every time.
What Is Cherry Dump Cake?
Cherry dump cake is a dessert that falls somewhere between a cobbler, crisp, and traditional cake. It starts with a layer of cherry pie filling at the bottom, followed by dry cake mix sprinkled on top, then finished with melted butter. As it bakes, the butter melts into the cake mix, forming a soft, buttery topping while the cherries underneath become warm, jammy, and bubbly.
Unlike traditional cakes, there’s no mixing involved. The layers stay separate, creating a texture that’s crisp on top, tender in the middle, and saucy on the bottom. It’s rustic, comforting, and meant to be served casually—often straight from the baking dish.
Dump cakes became popular in mid-century American kitchens because they were fast, affordable, and forgiving. Today, they remain a favorite for busy families, beginner bakers, and anyone who loves easy desserts that still taste homemade.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Dump Cake Recipe
There are plenty of reasons this cherry dump cake deserves a spot in your regular dessert rotation:
- Incredibly easy – No mixing, no measuring beyond a few simple ingredients
- Minimal prep time – Just a few minutes from pantry to oven
- Family-friendly – A dessert both kids and adults love
- Customizable – Easy to adapt with different toppings or flavor twists
- Perfect for gatherings – Feeds a crowd with minimal effort
- Comforting and nostalgic – Classic flavors that feel like home
It’s the kind of dessert you can throw together on a busy weeknight but still proudly serve at holidays or celebrations.
Ingredients for Cherry Dump Cake
This recipe uses pantry staples and simple ingredients you may already have on hand.
Main Ingredients
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
Or substitute 4 cups of homemade cherry pie filling if you prefer fresh or less-sweet filling. - 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow or white cake mix
Both work beautifully—yellow cake adds richness, while white cake keeps the flavor lighter. - ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Butter is key for flavor and texture, helping the cake mix bake evenly. - ½ cup brown sugar
Adds warmth and a subtle caramel flavor that complements the cherries. - 2 tablespoons carob fruit syrup or agave syrup
Adds natural sweetness and depth without overpowering the cherries. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Enhances the overall flavor and adds a cozy, bakery-style aroma.
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
Serving cherry dump cake warm with a creamy topping takes it to the next level.
How to Make Cherry Dump Cake (Step-by-Step)
This recipe couldn’t be easier, but following these simple steps ensures perfect results every time.
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. This temperature allows the cake topping to bake evenly while the cherries bubble underneath.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes serving easier.
3. Add the Cherry Filling
Spread the cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Make sure it reaches the corners so every serving has plenty of cherries.
If you’re using fresh cherries, toss them with a bit of sugar before adding them to the dish to ensure proper sweetness and juiciness.
4. Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the cherry filling. Do not stir. The dry cake mix should sit right on top of the cherries, forming the base of the topping.
5. Add Butter and Syrup
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix, followed by the carob fruit syrup or agave syrup. Try to cover as much of the cake mix as possible so it bakes evenly and doesn’t leave dry patches.
If using vanilla extract, drizzle it lightly over the top.
6. Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cherries are bubbling around the edges. The edges may become slightly crisp—that’s exactly what you want.
7. Cool and Serve
Allow the dump cake to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set slightly and makes it easier to scoop.
Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort dessert.
Tips for the Best Cherry Dump Cake
Even though dump cake is forgiving, a few tips can make it extra delicious:
- Cover the cake mix well with butter to avoid dry spots
- Use room-temperature butter before melting for smoother pouring
- Don’t stir the layers—this creates the signature dump cake texture
- Let it rest briefly before serving so it thickens slightly
- Bake until bubbly—this ensures the cherries are fully heated and jammy
If you notice dry patches during baking, you can carefully drizzle a little extra melted butter over those spots.
Variations and Flavor Ideas
Cherry dump cake is delicious as written, but it’s also easy to customize.
Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake
Sprinkle chocolate chips over the cake mix before adding butter for a rich, dessert-lover twist.
Almond Cherry Dump Cake
Add sliced almonds on top before baking and serve with almond-flavored whipped cream.
Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake
Mix crushed pineapple into the cherry filling for a fruity, tropical variation.
Homemade Cherry Filling Option
If you prefer homemade filling, cook fresh cherries with sugar and a little cornstarch until thickened before using.
How to Store and Reheat Cherry Dump Cake
Storage
- Cover leftovers tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20–30 seconds
- Or warm the entire dish in the oven at 300°F until heated through
Cherry dump cake tastes especially good reheated with fresh ice cream on top.
When to Serve Cherry Dump Cake
This dessert is perfect for:
- Family dinners
- Potlucks and bake sales
- Holiday gatherings
- Summer BBQs
- Weeknight desserts
- Last-minute guests
Because it’s so easy and crowd-pleasing, it works year-round for nearly any occasion.
Why Cherry Dump Cake Is a Must-Have Recipe
Cherry dump cake proves that you don’t need complicated techniques or fancy ingredients to make an unforgettable dessert. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few minutes of prep, you get a warm, comforting dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
It’s cozy, nostalgic, customizable, and always a hit—especially when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the top.
If you’re building a collection of go-to desserts for busy days, holidays, or family gatherings, this cherry dump cake absolutely deserves a permanent place in your recipe box.
