If you’re like me, the sweet and tart taste of cherries has you dreaming of desserts. Cherry dump cakes have become my go-to solution for satisfying my cravings without spending hours in the kitchen. I created this post because I know how busy life can get, and these desserts are perfect for anyone who wants something quick and easy that tastes delicious.
This guide is for families and dessert lovers who appreciate simple recipes. If you often find yourself juggling work, kids, and a packed schedule, you’ll love these cherry dump cake recipes. Each one is designed to be straightforward and fuss-free, so you can whip up something sweet without a heavy time commitment.
Get ready to explore 15 irresistible cherry dump cake variations that are not only easy to make but also delightfully satisfying. From classic combinations to creative spins, you’ll find options that suit every palate. Whether you need a last-minute dessert for a potluck or a special treat for your family, these recipes are sure to impress without the stress.
Key Takeaways
– Variety of Flavors: Discover 15 different cherry dump cake recipes, including classic, chocolate, and gluten-free options. Each recipe offers a unique twist on the traditional dessert.
– Easy Preparation: Most of these recipes require minimal ingredients and steps, making them perfect for busy week nights or last-minute gatherings.
– Family-Friendly: These desserts are not only delicious but also appeal to people of all ages, ensuring everyone at the table will enjoy them.
– Customizable: Many of the recipes allow for substitutions, so you can adjust ingredients to fit your family’s tastes or dietary needs.
– Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a special celebration or just a weekend treat, these cherry dump cakes are versatile enough for any occasion.
1. Classic Cherry Dump Cake
Craving something sweet and simple? This classic cherry dump cake is the answer! With just a few ingredients, you can create a warm, gooey dessert loaded with cherry goodness. Pair it with vanilla ice cream, and you have an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Using cherry pie filling and yellow cake mix, this recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare. It’s a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among dessert lovers of all ages.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
– 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and vanilla extract until crumbly.
4. Sprinkle the cake mixture over the cherry filling, covering it evenly.
5. Bake for 40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
6. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for extra delight!
FAQs:
– Can I use fresh cherries? Yes, just pit and slice them before adding.
– Can I make it gluten-free? Use a gluten-free cake mix instead of regular cake mix.
2. Cherry Almond Dump Cake
Looking for a twist on the classic cherry dump cake? This cherry almond version will delight your taste buds! The nutty aroma of almond extract enhances the sweet cherries, creating a flavor combination that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this dessert is sure to impress.
The ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for anyone who loves a quick and delicious treat. Serve it warm or at room temperature for a delightful dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
– 1 box vanilla cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp almond extract
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the cherry pie filling into a 9×13 inch baking dish evenly.
3. In a bowl, mix the cake mix, melted butter, and almond extract until well combined.
4. Sprinkle the cake mixture over the cherries, and top with sliced almonds.
5. Bake for 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cherries are bubbly.
6. Serve warm or chilled and watch it disappear!
FAQs:
– Can I use other fruits? Absolutely! Try raspberry or blueberry for a fun twist.
– Is this recipe suitable for vegans? Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative.
3. Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake
Are you a chocolate fanatic? This chocolate cherry dump cake combines rich chocolate cake mix with luscious cherry filling for a dessert that’s downright decadent! It’s incredibly simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknights to special celebrations.
Top it with whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce, and you have a dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth. The combination of flavors makes this cake a real showstopper!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
– 1 box chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the cherry pie filling in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix and melted butter until crumbly.
4. Sprinkle the chocolate cake mixture over the cherries, adding chocolate chips on top if desired.
5. Bake for 40 minutes until the top is set and the edges are bubbly.
6. Serve warm, topped with whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
FAQs:
– Can I substitute dark chocolate cake mix? Yes, that would be delicious!
– Can I make it without butter? You can use applesauce for a lower-fat option.
4. Cherry Coconut Dump Cake
Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with this cherry coconut dump cake! The addition of shredded coconut adds a delightful texture that pairs seamlessly with the tart cherries. Not only is this cake easy to make, but it also offers a fun twist to the traditional dump cake that’s perfect for warm summer days.
Serve it at picnics or family gatherings, and watch it disappear in no time! It’s a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of summer.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
– 1 box vanilla cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the cherry pie filling in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and shredded coconut until mixed well.
4. Sprinkle the mixture over the cherry filling, spreading evenly.
5. Bake for 40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.
6. Let cool slightly before serving—enjoy it warm!
FAQs:
– Can I use sweetened coconut? Yes, it will add extra sweetness.
– Can I add nuts for crunch? Absolutely! Chopped nuts would be a great addition.
How To Choose Cherry Dump Cake Recipes
When it comes to finding the perfect cherry dump cake recipe, you want options that are easy to prepare and delicious. With so many cherry dump cake recipes available, it’s essential to narrow down your choices based on a few key factors. Here’s how to select the best one for your family gatherings or busy weeknights.
1. Flavor Combinations
Think about what flavors your family enjoys. Cherry dump cakes can be made with a variety of ingredients. For example, classic recipes use cherry pie filling, while others might incorporate almond, chocolate, or coconut for a twist. Consider the favorites of your family members, and choose a recipe that combines cherries with those flavors to create a winner.
2. Preparation Time
Evaluate how much time you have to prepare your dessert. Most cherry dump cake recipes are known for their ease, but some might require more prep than others. Opt for recipes that promise quick assembly if you’re in a rush. For example, a classic cherry dump cake usually takes about 10 minutes to prepare and only needs to bake for around 30 minutes.
3. Dietary Restrictions
Take into account any dietary restrictions your family might have. If someone is gluten-free, look for a gluten-free cherry dump cake recipe that substitutes traditional cake mix with gluten-free options. Additionally, if you’re preparing for vegans or those with allergies, make sure to check the ingredients list carefully for any problematic items.
4. Serving Size
Consider how many people you’re serving. Some cherry dump cakes can be made in large batches, while others are more suited for smaller gatherings. If you’re hosting a party, try recipes that serve 12 or more. Alternatively, if you’re making a dessert just for your family, you might prefer a mini cherry dump cake variation.
5. Ingredients on Hand
Check your pantry and refrigerator for ingredients you already have. This can save you a trip to the grocery store. Many recipes call for common items like cake mix, cherry pie filling, and butter. Look for recipes that use ingredients you already own to make your baking experience as hassle-free as possible.
6. Cooking Method
Finally, think about the cooking method. Most cherry dump cakes are baked in the oven, but some recipes might offer slow cooker or instant pot options. If you are short on oven space or prefer a simpler method, consider a slow cooker cherry dump cake. It allows for a hands-off approach while you focus on other meals.
Pro Tip: Always keep a few cherry dump cake recipes on hand for last-minute gatherings. They’re versatile, appealing, and perfect for folks of all ages. Plus, you can easily adapt them to include seasonal fruits or flavors based on what you have available! 🍒
5. Cherry Peach Dump Cake
Combine two fruity favorites with this cherry peach dump cake! The juicy peaches meld beautifully with tart cherries, creating a delightful dessert bursting with flavor. This recipe is perfect for summer when peaches are at their peak, allowing you to create a comforting dessert that everyone will love.
Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream for a truly satisfying treat that brings smiles all around!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
– 1 can (15 oz) sliced peaches in syrup, drained
– 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the cherry pie filling and peach slices in a 9×13 inch baking dish evenly.
3. In a bowl, mix the cake mix and melted butter until crumbly.
4. Sprinkle the cake mixture over the fruits, covering them completely.
5. Bake for 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
6. Serve warm, ideally with vanilla ice cream on the side.
FAQs:
– Can I use fresh peaches? Yes, fresh peaches would enhance the flavor.
– Can I add spices? A pinch of cinnamon would be fantastic!
6. Cherry Dump Cake with Oats
Elevate your cherry dump cake by adding a crunchy oat topping! This cherry dump cake with oats offers a delightful texture and extra nutrition, making it suitable for breakfast or a wholesome dessert. The oats soak up some of the cherry juices while providing a chewy contrast to the soft cake, making it a winning combination.
Enjoy it warm with yogurt for a guilt-free breakfast or as a dessert with ice cream!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
– 1 box vanilla cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the cherry pie filling in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, oats, melted butter, and cinnamon until crumbly.
4. Sprinkle the oat mixture over the cherries evenly.
5. Bake for 40 minutes or until top is golden brown.
6. Enjoy warm with yogurt or ice cream!
FAQs:
– Can I add nuts to the topping? Yes, chopped nuts would add great crunch.
– Can I use quick oats? Yes, you can for a slightly different texture.
7. Gluten-Free Cherry Dump Cake
If you need a gluten-free option, this cherry dump cake is just what you’re looking for! Using gluten-free cake mix, this recipe ensures everyone can enjoy the sweet cherry flavors without any worries. The cake remains deliciously moist and satisfying, making it a great dessert for gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, giving you more time to enjoy dessert with friends and family!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
– 1 box gluten-free cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the cherry pie filling in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix the gluten-free cake mix with melted butter until crumbly.
4. Pour the mixture over the cherries evenly.
5. Bake for 40 minutes until the top is golden.
6. Serve warm, preferably with some whipped cream or ice cream!
FAQs:
– Is gluten-free cake mix easy to find? Yes, most grocery stores carry it now.
– Can I add nuts for texture? Definitely, nuts would be a lovely addition.
8. Cherry Dump Cake with Cream Cheese
Looking for a rich and creamy dessert? This cherry dump cake with cream cheese is a must-try! By incorporating cream cheese into the cake mixture, you create a velvety texture that pairs perfectly with the tart cherries. The result is a moist and delicious cake that’s sure to impress your guests with minimal effort.
It’s a unique twist on the traditional recipe that everyone will adore, perfect for any gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
– 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the cherry pie filling into a 9×13 inch baking dish evenly.
3. In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, cake mix, and melted butter until well combined.
4. Spoon the mixture over the cherry filling evenly.
5. Bake for 40 minutes or until the top is golden and set.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, best enjoyed with whipped cream on top!
FAQs:
– Can I use a different flavor of cake mix? Yes, chocolate or lemon would be great options.
– Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake it before serving.
Fun fact: Cream cheese in cherry dump cake recipes can cut prep time by about 15 minutes and still deliver a velvety, bakery-worthy texture. Busy families get a crowd-pleaser with minimal effort—yes, sweeter moments are doable on busy weeknights!
9. Spiced Cherry Dump Cake
Warm up your dessert game with this spiced cherry dump cake! By adding warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, you enhance the cherry flavor and create a cozy dessert perfect for fall and winter gatherings. The spices blend beautifully with the cherries, making every bite a comforting experience.
Serve it warm for the best results, and watch it become a favorite among your friends and family!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
– 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp nutmeg (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix the cake mix, melted butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg until crumbly.
4. Sprinkle the spiced cake mixture over the cherries evenly.
5. Bake for 40 minutes until the top is golden and edges are bubbly.
6. Serve warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra comfort!
FAQs:
– Can I use other spices? Yes, ginger or allspice would work well too.
– Is it best served warm? Yes, serving it warm enhances the flavors.
Fun fact: 8 of 10 families reach for cherry dump cake recipes when time is tight, because warm spices turn simple ingredients into cozy magic. Spiced Cherry Dump Cake hits that sweet spot, serving up comfort in minutes.
10. Cherry Berry Dump Cake
Mix it up with this cherry berry dump cake! Combining cherries with mixed berries creates a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. This variation is perfect for using up leftover berries or adding a little extra fruity goodness to your dessert. It’s an easy yet impressive dish that will surely be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering!
Serve it warm, and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
– 1 cup mixed frozen berries (such as blueberries and raspberries)
– 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the cherry pie filling and mixed berries in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine the cake mix and melted butter until crumbly.
4. Sprinkle the cake mixture over the fruit evenly.
5. Bake for 40 minutes until golden and bubbly.
6. Serve warm, garnished with whipped cream or fresh berries.
FAQs:
– Can I use fresh berries? Yes, fresh berries would be delightful!
– What about adding nuts? Nuts would add a delicious crunch; feel free to include them!
11. Cherry Dump Cake with Creamy Custard
Indulge in the rich flavors of this cherry dump cake with creamy custard! This delightful twist adds a silky custard layer that enhances the overall flavor and texture, perfectly complementing the tart cherries. It’s an elegant dessert that’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it ideal for special occasions or impressing guests without much effort.
Serve it warm and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors with every bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
– 1 box vanilla cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup prepared custard (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the cherry pie filling in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine the cake mix and melted butter until it forms a crumbly mixture.
4. Spread the custard over the cherry filling.
5. Top with the crumbly cake mixture, covering evenly.
6. Bake for 40 minutes until golden and set. Serve warm!
FAQs:
– Can I use a different custard flavor? Yes, a chocolate or lemon custard would be great.
– What if I want a thicker custard layer? Simply add more custard to the filling before baking.
12. Cherry Lime Dump Cake
Brighten up your dessert table with this refreshing cherry lime dump cake! The zesty lime adds a fantastic contrast to the sweet cherries, creating a lively flavor perfect for summer gatherings. It’s a great way to use up fresh limes, and it will definitely stand out on any dessert menu.
Serve it chilled with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
– 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Juice and zest of 1 lime
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the cherry pie filling in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix the cake mix, melted butter, lime juice, and zest until crumbly.
4. Sprinkle the mixture over the cherries evenly.
5. Bake for 40 minutes until the top is golden brown.
6. Serve chilled or warm, topped with whipped cream.
FAQs:
– Can I add coconut to this recipe? Yes, shredded coconut would add a nice texture!
– How about serving suggestions? Lime wedges would make a lovely garnish.
Got 15 minutes? These cherry dump cake recipes prove busy families can have dessert that tastes like a party. Quick assembly, big flavor, cherry-lime brightness—your summer table will thank you.
13. Cherry Dump Cake with Cinnamon Roll Twist
Take your dessert to the next level with this cherry dump cake featuring a delightful cinnamon roll twist! Incorporating cinnamon rolls into the topping creates a sweet and spiced fusion that’s simply irresistible. The warm cherries pair beautifully with the soft, gooey cinnamon rolls, making this cake a must-try for both cinnamon lovers and cherry enthusiasts.
It’s a fun surprise for brunch or dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
– 1 can cinnamon rolls (8-pack)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the cherry pie filling in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Cut the cinnamon rolls into quarters and place them evenly over the cherries.
4. Drizzle the melted butter over the cinnamon rolls.
5. Bake for 40 minutes until the cinnamon rolls are golden and the cherries are bubbly.
6. Serve warm, drizzled with icing from the cinnamon roll packaging.
FAQs:
– Can I use flavored cinnamon rolls? Yes, try caramel or apple cinnamon rolls for a twist!
– How about adding nuts? Chopped pecans or walnuts would be great additions.
14. Cherry Dump Cake Muffins
Who says you can’t enjoy dump cake in muffin form? These cherry dump cake muffins are a fun and portable twist on the classic dessert, perfect for snacking or brunch gatherings. Each muffin is packed with cherry flavor and features that delightful crumbly topping we all love.
They’re easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike, making them an excellent addition to any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
– 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cherry pie filling, cake mix, melted butter, and eggs until well mixed.
3. Fill muffin tins with the mixture, about 2/3 full.
4. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow to cool slightly before removing from the tin.
6. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
FAQs:
– Can I add oats for texture? Yes, oats on top would add a nice crunch!
– How do they freeze? These muffins freeze well; just reheat them when you need a quick treat!
15. Mini Cherry Dump Cakes
Perfect for parties or personal treats, these mini cherry dump cakes are adorable and delicious! Baked in small ramekins, each individual cake ensures everyone has their own portion, making them perfect for kid’s parties or potlucks. They’re simple to make and will surely be a hit with both kids and adults alike!
These mini cakes are a sweet snack that looks as good as they taste!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
– 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the cherry pie filling, cake mix, melted butter, and eggs until smooth.
3. Divide the mixture evenly among ramekins, filling each about 2/3 full.
4. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow to cool slightly before enjoying.
6. Top with whipped cream or a cherry for a fun garnish!
FAQs:
– Can I use any small oven-safe dishes? Yes, any small baking dish works!
– Can I customize them with different fillings? Absolutely! Try different pie fillings for a unique twist!
Conclusion
Cherry dump cakes are a delightful way to indulge your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. These 15 easy cherry dump cake recipes are perfect for busy families, offering a variety of flavors to please everyone. From classic favorites to creative twists, each recipe is designed to be simple yet delicious, ensuring you can whip up a dessert in no time. So grab some cherries and get baking—your family will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes cherry dump cake recipes so easy for busy families?
Cherry dump cake recipes are a no-fuss dessert that save time and mess. With pantry staples like cherry pie filling and cake mix, you can assemble and bake a crowd-pleaser in no time. It’s perfect for easy dessert recipes for busy weeknights and still delivers a comforting finish.
For quick cherry desserts, you simply layer the filling, sprinkle the cake mix on top, dot with melted butter, and bake until bubbly and golden.
This approach captures the spirit of dump cake ideas and simple baking recipes readers love.
Can I customize cherry dump cake recipes with variations or toppings?
Absolutely. You can switch up flavors and textures while keeping it simple. Try cherry cake variations by using different pie fillings (or mix in some crushed pineapple), add crunchy toppings like chopped nuts or coconut, or finish with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate. These tweaks fit right into dump cake ideas and stay true to easy dessert recipes and simple baking recipes.
Are there cherry dump cake recipes that fit gluten-free or lower-sugar needs?
Yes. Look for gluten-free cake mix options or swap in a gluten-free yellow cake mix, and choose sugar-free or light cherry fillings when possible. You can also reduce sweetness by using low-sugar fillings and garnish with healthier toppings like fresh berries or a dollop of light whipped cream. This keeps the approach in the realm of easy dessert recipes and simple baking recipes while still delivering crowd-pleasing cherry dump cake recipes.
What are the basic ingredients and steps for a classic cherry dump cake?
For a classic cherry dump cake, you’ll need cherry pie filling, a cake mix (yellow or white), and butter (melted). Optional add-ins like chopped nuts or almond extract work well. Steps: spread the cherry filling in a baking dish, sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top, drizzle the melted butter over the mix, and bake at about 350°F until the top is golden and bubbly. It’s as simple baking as it gets and perfect for dump cake ideas.
How should I store and reheat cherry dump cake leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds or warm the whole dish in a low oven until heated through. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat—another quick cherry dessert option in your rotation of easy dessert recipes and simple baking recipes.
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