Cherry dump cake is a dessert that brings together simplicity and indulgence in the most delightful way. It’s the kind of treat that makes you feel like a baking pro with minimal effort. Imagine a warm, golden-brown crust atop a layer of sweet, tangy cherries, all coming together in a single baking dish. This dessert is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or when you’re craving something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of cherry dump cake lies in its straightforward preparation. With just a few ingredients and less than an hour of your time, you can create a dessert that tastes like it came from a bakery. It’s a go-to recipe for those moments when you want to impress guests or satisfy a sweet tooth without the hassle.
Ingredients Needed
Creating this delicious dessert requires only a handful of ingredients, most of which you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Cherry pie filling | 2 cans (21 oz each) | 560 |
| Yellow cake mix | 1 box (15.25 oz) | 1600 |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | 1 cup (2 sticks) | 1620 |
| Optional: chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) | ½ cup | 200 |
| Optional: vanilla extract | 1 tsp | 12 |
Total estimated calories (entire recipe): ~3992 calories
Serves about 10 to 12 people
These ingredients come together to create a dessert that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. The cherry pie filling provides a rich, fruity base, while the cake mix and butter form a delectable topping. Adding nuts introduces a delightful crunch, and a splash of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing this cherry dump cake is as simple as it gets. Follow these steps to create a dessert that’s sure to impress:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown crust.
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents the cake from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Pour the cherry pie filling into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly to cover the bottom of the dish.
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix directly over the cherries. Do not stir. The cake mix will form a crumbly topping as it bakes.
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the surface as possible to ensure a crisp, buttery crust.
Add chopped nuts if desired. They add a wonderful crunch and flavor contrast to the soft cake.
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. The cake is done when the top is firm and slightly crisp.
Let it cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to cut into portions.
The result is a warm, comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet cherries, buttery cake topping, and optional nuts creates a delightful treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
While the classic cherry dump cake is delicious on its own, there are several ways to personalize it to suit your taste:
Experiment with blueberry, strawberry, or peach pie fillings for a new twist on the traditional recipe.
Swap the yellow cake mix for white, chocolate, or spice cake mix to change the flavor profile.
A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the flavor.
Adding crushed pineapple or sliced apples can introduce new textures and flavors.
A teaspoon of almond or coconut extract can enhance the overall taste.
Use a gluten-free cake mix to accommodate dietary restrictions.
These variations allow you to tailor the cherry dump cake to your preferences, making it a versatile dessert for any occasion.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content of your dessert can help you make informed choices. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving, assuming 12 servings:
- Calories: ~330
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 280mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat butter or a sugar-free cake mix.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry dump cake is delicious on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the experience:
The cold, creamy ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, fruity cake.
A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that balances the richness of the cake.
These sauces add an extra layer of sweetness and decadence.
Slices of fresh berries or a fruit salad can add a refreshing element to the dessert.
These serving suggestions enhance the flavors and textures of the cherry dump cake, making it an even more delightful treat.
Conclusion
Cherry dump cake is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Its ease of preparation, combined with its comforting flavors, makes it a go-to dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress. The versatility in customization ensures that you can make it your own, catering to various tastes and dietary preferences. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, give this cherry dump cake a try—you won’t be disappointed.