Why You’ll Love This Cherry Dump Cake Recipe
When you take the first bite of this Cherry Dump Cake, you’ll instantly understand why it’s become a favorite in my kitchen. The flavors blend perfectly, creating a delicious balance of sweet cherries and tangy pineapple.
It’s incredibly easy to make, which means I can whip it up for any occasion without stress. Plus, the warm, gooey texture is simply irresistible!
Whether it’s a family gathering or a simple weeknight treat, this dessert never disappoints. You’ll love how it fills your home with a delightful aroma, making everyone keen to dig in.
Trust me; you won’t be able to stop at one slice!
Ingredients of Cherry Dump Cake
When it comes to whipping up a dessert that’s both scrumptious and simple, Cherry Dump Cake is a classic that hits the spot. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something that feels like a warm hug from Grandma, even if you’ve never set foot in a kitchen before. Seriously, it’s that easy.
Imagine layers of sweet cherries and tangy pineapple, topped with a golden, buttery cake crust that just begs to be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Yeah, it’s pretty much dessert heaven.
Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you get started:
- 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 (20 ounce) can wilderness cherry pie filling
- 1 (18 1/4 ounce) box white cake mix
- 1 cup margarine, melted
Now, a couple of things to reflect on about these ingredients. First off, don’t skip the crushed pineapple; it’s what gives the cake that delightful moistness and a bit of zing to balance the sweetness of the cherries.
Also, you can totally use butter instead of margarine if you want to go the extra mile for flavor—because, let’s be honest, butter makes everything better, right?
Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could experiment with different fruit fillings or even add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nuts on top for some added texture. The versatility is part of what makes this recipe a keeper. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be dreaming of new combinations.
How to Make Cherry Dump Cake
Making Cherry Dump Cake is about as easy as pie—well, actually, even easier since there’s no pie crust to worry about. First things first, crank your oven up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
While it’s warming up, grab a 9×13 pan and give it a nice spray with some non-stick cooking spray. You don’t want your delicious creation to stick to the pan like that one time I tried to bake cookies without parchment paper. Trust me, it was a mess.
Now, let’s get to the fun part. Start with the star of the show: 1 (20 ounce) can of crushed pineapple, undrained. Dump that right into the bottom of the pan, spreading it out evenly. I always find it satisfying to see that juicy pineapple layer glistening in the pan.
Next, take your 1 (20 ounce) can of wilderness cherry pie filling and pour it over the pineapple. Make sure it’s evenly spread too because nobody likes a cake that’s all one flavor in one corner and all another in the other, right?
Once you’ve got your fruity layers looking perfect, grab an 18 1/4 ounce box of white cake mix. Yes, just dump it right over the top of the cherries and pineapple. Don’t mix it; just spread it out evenly. It’s a dump cake, after all.
Now, melt 1 cup of margarine—if you’re feeling fancy, butter works wonders too. Drizzle that melted goodness all over the dry cake mix, ensuring every little bit is moistened. You mightn’t need the whole cup, but it’s always good to have a little extra just in case.
Pop that beauty in the oven for 60 minutes. Keep an eye on it toward the end, though; you want it golden brown, not charcoal gray.
And there you have it, a warm, comforting cherry dump cake that’s bound to steal the show at any gathering.
Cherry Dump Cake Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to put a unique spin on your cherry dump cake, there are plenty of delicious substitutions and variations to try.
For a tropical twist, swap the cherry pie filling for pineapple or mango. You can also use a chocolate cake mix instead of white for a rich flavor.
Want a nutty crunch? Add chopped pecans or almonds on top before baking. If you prefer a lighter dessert, consider using angel food cake mix.
For an extra zing, sprinkle some cinnamon or almond extract over the top. These tweaks can elevate your dump cake to a whole new level!
What to Serve with Cherry Dump Cake
Cherry dump cake is a delightful dessert that pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments.
I love serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top; the creaminess complements the tart cherries perfectly. Whipped cream is another favorite, adding a light, airy touch.
If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle a bit of chocolate sauce or caramel over the cake for an extra layer of flavor. For a more invigorating option, a dollop of Greek yogurt brings a tangy contrast.
Each pairing enhances the cherry dump cake experience, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your cherry dump cake, keep in mind a few helpful tips to guarantee it turns out perfectly every time.
First, make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit; this guarantees even baking. Don’t skimp on the non-stick spray; it’ll help with easy removal.
If you prefer a more intense cherry flavor, try adding some almond extract. For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts over the cake mix before baking.
Finally, keep an eye on it toward the end of baking; you want a golden brown top, not a burnt one. Enjoy your delicious creation!