Easy Cherry Dump Cake

This easy cherry dump cake is a delicious, buttery dessert that combines the sweetness of cherries with the tang of pineapple for the perfect fruity balance. It’s gooey, golden, and irresistibly simple to make. With just five ingredients and no mixing required, it’s the kind of dessert that feels homemade without the effort. Whether you serve it warm with ice cream or enjoy it plain, every bite tastes like a spoonful of happiness.

Why This Recipe Works

Only Five Simple Ingredients

You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps to make this classic Southern favorite. All you need are cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple, yellow cake mix, butter, and chopped pecans. The pineapple adds a touch of brightness, while the cherries bring rich sweetness. Combined with buttery cake mix and crunchy nuts, it becomes a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Foolproof and Fast

This dump cake truly lives up to its name—you just “dump” the ingredients into the pan and bake. It takes less than 10 minutes to prepare and delivers a warm, bubbling dessert in under an hour. It’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, or whenever you crave something sweet but simple.

Print

Gathering the Ingredients

The Sweet and Simple Components

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 (16 oz) can crushed pineapple (undrained) – Adds moisture and light tanginess.
• 1 (28 oz) can cherry pie filling – Provides that rich, fruity base.
• 1 (18 oz) box yellow cake mix – Creates the buttery, golden topping.
• 1 cup chopped pecans – Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
• 1 stick butter (½ cup) – Brings richness and helps brown the top.

Ingredient Tips

You can substitute walnuts for pecans or leave the nuts out if you prefer. For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg over the fruit before adding the cake mix. If you like your desserts less sweet, use a reduced-sugar pie filling without losing the classic texture.

Layering the Perfection

Building the Fruit Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×11-inch baking dish. Pour in the crushed pineapple, including the juice, and spread it evenly across the bottom. The juice helps create a moist layer that bubbles up through the cake while baking. Next, spread the cherry pie filling evenly on top of the pineapple layer. The cherries add a burst of flavor and vibrant color.

Adding the Cake Mix and Topping

In a small bowl, mix the chopped pecans with the dry yellow cake mix. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the fruit layers. Don’t stir—it’s important to keep the layers separate so the butter can soak into the mix and create that signature crumbly top. Slice the butter into thin pats and place them evenly across the surface. As the cake bakes, the butter melts, forming a golden crust that contrasts perfectly with the juicy fruit underneath.

Baking and Serving

Baking to a Perfect Golden Brown

Bake in the preheated oven for 45–55 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling around the edges. You’ll know it’s done when the crust looks crisp and slightly caramelized, and you can smell the sweet blend of cherries, pineapple, and butter. The center should be soft and gooey, while the edges are crisp and lightly browned.

Cooling and Serving

Let the cake rest for 10 minutes before serving. This short cooling time helps the layers settle, making it easier to scoop while keeping the gooey texture intact. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent finish.

Tips and Variations

Fun Flavor Twists

• Add coconut: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the cake mix for a tropical touch.
• Use different fruits: Swap cherries for peaches, blackberries, or blueberries.
• Try chocolate: Use chocolate cake mix instead of yellow for a “Black Forest” twist.
• Add spice: Mix a little cinnamon into the cake mix for warmth.

Perfect Texture Every Time

To ensure even baking, distribute the butter pats evenly across the cake mix. Avoid mixing the layers—dump cakes bake best when the ingredients stay distinct. For a crisper top, add a few extra butter slices midway through baking. For a gooier center, reduce baking time by five minutes.

Storage and Reheating

Keeping It Fresh

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors blend beautifully as the cake sits, making it even tastier the next day. To freeze, cool the cake completely and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Tips

Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 20 seconds, or warm the entire pan in a 300°F oven for 10–12 minutes. The butter will soften, and the topping will regain its crispness. Enjoy it warm—it’s even better the second time around.

When to Serve

Ideal for Any Gathering

This easy cherry dump cake fits every occasion—from family dinners to festive holidays. Its simplicity makes it a go-to dessert for potlucks or Sunday meals. The red cherry layer makes it a beautiful choice for Valentine’s Day or Christmas celebrations.

Pairing Ideas

Serve this cake with coffee for a cozy afternoon treat, or top it with a scoop of ice cream for an after-dinner dessert. The fruity sweetness pairs perfectly with vanilla, caramel, or cinnamon ice cream flavors. For another cozy fall dessert, try Easy Caramel Apple Dump Cake, which shares the same warm, buttery charm with a caramel twist.

FAQ

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook them first with sugar and cornstarch to create a thick filling.

Can I skip the nuts?
Absolutely. The recipe works perfectly without nuts.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free cake mix, and it turns out just as delicious.

Do I need to refrigerate leftovers?
Yes, to maintain freshness and texture, refrigerate after cooling.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake it a day before serving and reheat before enjoying.

Conclusion

This easy cherry dump cake combines juicy fruit, buttery crumble, and a hint of crunch for the perfect balance of flavors and textures. With minimal ingredients and no complicated steps, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert. Whether you make it for a gathering or a simple family treat, this recipe guarantees a delicious, fuss-free dessert every time. It’s a timeless classic that never fails to impress.