Dump Cake Recipe

Cherry pie filling: This canned fruit filling is sweet and full of cherries, giving the cake its juicy, fruity base.

Crushed pineapple: Adds a tropical, tangy flavor and extra moisture to the dessert.

Yellow cake mix: A dry mix that forms the crumbly, soft topping when baked.

Melted butter: Poured over the cake mix to create a rich, golden crust as it bakes.

One of the most important steps in this Dump Cake Recipe is pouring the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. This might sound simple, but doing it right makes a big difference in how your cake turns out. Here’s how to get it just right:

1. After you’ve sprinkled the yellow cake mix over the fruit, take your cup of melted butter and pour it slowly.
2. Try to move your hand back and forth so the butter covers the entire surface, not just one spot.
3. If you see any dry patches of cake mix, gently tilt the dish or use a spoon to spread the butter around a little more.

Doing this helps the cake mix soak up the butter evenly, which means the top will bake into a golden, crispy crust while the inside stays moist and sweet. If you pour all the butter in one spot, some parts might get soggy, and others might stay dry, which isn’t as tasty.

When I first made this dump cake, I poured the butter too quickly and ended up with a few soggy spots. After that, I learned to slow down and spread it carefully. It really makes the difference between a good cake and a great one. Plus, it’s kind of fun to watch the butter melt into the cake mix and get ready to bake into something delicious!

• cherry pie filling - Substitute with apple pie filling: Apple pie filling provides a similar sweetness and texture, making it a suitable alternative for the fruity layer in a dump cake.

• cherry pie filling - Substitute with blueberry pie filling: Blueberry pie filling offers a different berry flavor that complements the other ingredients well, while maintaining the desired consistency.

• crushed pineapple - Substitute with mandarin oranges: Mandarin oranges add a citrusy sweetness and moisture, similar to crushed pineapple, enhancing the fruitiness of the cake.

• crushed pineapple - Substitute with apricot preserves: Apricot preserves provide a sweet and slightly tangy flavor, along with a smooth texture that can mimic the juiciness of crushed pineapple.

• yellow cake mix - Substitute with white cake mix: White cake mix has a similar base and texture, allowing it to be used interchangeably without significantly altering the cake's structure.

• yellow cake mix - Substitute with spice cake mix: Spice cake mix adds a warm, spiced flavor that can complement the fruit layers, offering a unique twist to the traditional dump cake.

• melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and moisture, with a subtle coconut flavor that can enhance the tropical notes in the cake.

• melted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a direct substitute for butter, maintaining the richness and moisture needed for the cake.

• Allow the dump cake to cool completely at room temperature. This ensures that any residual heat doesn't create condensation, which can make the dessert soggy.

• Once cooled, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, transfer the cake to an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

• Store the covered dump cake in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days, allowing you to enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes.

• For longer storage, consider freezing the cake. First, cut it into individual portions. This makes it easier to thaw only what you need later.

• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This double-layer protection helps prevent freezer burn and preserves the cake's delightful texture.

• Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness. The dump cake can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it a convenient treat to have on hand.

• When you're ready to indulge, thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the cake's integrity.

• For a warm serving, reheat the thawed cake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This revives its golden, buttery top and enhances the flavors of the cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple.

• Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave can also do the trick. Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the leftover dump cake in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the cake's texture and flavor.

• For a quick fix, use the microwave. Place a portion of the dump cake on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to keep the moisture in. Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure it doesn't overheat and become rubbery.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 320°F (160°C). Place the dump cake in a small, air fryer-safe dish. Heat for about 5-7 minutes. This method can help achieve a slightly crispy top, reminiscent of its freshly baked state.

• For a stovetop method, use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place a slice of the dump cake in the skillet and cover it with a lid. Heat gently for about 5 minutes, checking frequently to avoid burning. This method can add a bit of caramelization to the bottom layer.

• Oven: Used to bake the dump cake at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Baking dish: A dish to hold and bake the cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple, cake mix, and butter.

• Mixing spoon: Utilized to mix the cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple together in the baking dish.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the correct amount of melted butter, ensuring it is one cup.

• Microwave or saucepan: Either can be used to melt the butter before pouring it over the cake mix.

• Oven mitts: Essential for safely handling the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and melt the butter ahead of time. Open the cans of cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple before starting.

Use a single dish: Mix the fruit directly in the baking dish to save on cleanup time.

Evenly distribute: Use a spatula to spread the cake mix and melted butter evenly, ensuring a uniform bake.

Preheat the oven: Start preheating the oven while gathering your ingredients to save time.

Line the dish: Use parchment paper or a non-stick spray to make serving and cleaning easier.