Easy Raspberry Dump Cake

This easy raspberry dump cake is a bright, fruity dessert that delivers big flavor with barely any effort. Made with just raspberry pie filling, vanilla cake mix, and butter, it creates a golden, buttery topping over sweet, bubbling raspberries. Every bite combines tart berry flavor with a tender crumbly crust that melts in your mouth. Whether you need a quick dessert for guests or a simple treat for yourself, this recipe proves that delicious doesn’t have to be complicated.

Why This Recipe Works

Just Three Simple Ingredients

There’s something magical about combining a handful of pantry staples and turning them into something extraordinary. The raspberry pie filling adds a natural tart sweetness, while the cake mix gives structure and lightness. Melted butter brings everything together, baking into a golden crumble topping that’s perfectly crisp at the edges and soft in the middle. You’ll get a cobbler-like texture that feels homemade with no extra steps.

Quick and Effortless Dessert

This raspberry dump cake goes from pantry to oven in minutes. No mixing bowls, no measuring cups—just layer, bake, and enjoy. The simplicity makes it perfect for beginners or busy families who want something warm and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a dessert that looks and tastes like you spent all day baking, even though it only takes 35 minutes.

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Gathering the Ingredients

The Essential Trio

For this recipe, you’ll need only three base ingredients:

• Raspberry pie filling: Provides a sweet-tart fruit layer that balances perfectly with the buttery topping.
• Vanilla cake mix: Gives the dessert a light, fluffy texture and subtle sweetness.
• Butter: Adds richness, moisture, and golden crispiness to the top layer.

Why Raspberries Are the Star

Raspberries bring a natural tartness that keeps this dessert from feeling overly sweet. Their bold flavor and vibrant color make every serving look as good as it tastes. You can use canned raspberry pie filling, homemade raspberry filling, or even frozen berries tossed with sugar and cornstarch if you want a fresher twist. The result is always irresistible.

Preparing the Dish

Setting the Stage

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch glass or ceramic baking dish. Pour in the raspberry pie filling and spread it evenly across the bottom. The filling will bubble up as it bakes, creating a jammy, syrupy layer that pairs beautifully with the crisp topping.

Building the Topping

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the dry vanilla cake mix and melted butter. Stir until the mixture becomes crumbly. The goal is a texture similar to coarse sand, with small, buttery crumbles that you can easily scatter over the fruit. Avoid overmixing—it should stay crumbly, not doughy. Once ready, spread the crumble mixture evenly over the raspberry filling.

Baking and Cooling

Achieving the Perfect Texture

Bake the cake for about 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. The butter melts into the cake mix as it bakes, creating a rich crust that’s crisp at the top and soft underneath. The raspberry filling will become glossy and slightly thickened, creating the perfect balance between sweet and tart.

Letting It Set

Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes before serving. This short rest time lets the filling thicken slightly and makes it easier to scoop. Serve warm for a gooey, cobbler-like consistency or let it cool for a firmer, sliceable dessert. Either way, it’s delicious on its own or paired with your favorite toppings.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Simple Serving Suggestions

This raspberry dump cake tastes divine on its own, but adding a topping makes it unforgettable. A scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a creamy contrast to the tart fruit, while a dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy touch. For a bakery-style presentation, dust it with powdered sugar or drizzle it with melted white chocolate before serving.

When to Serve

It’s ideal for summer gatherings, but thanks to canned filling, you can enjoy it year-round. Serve it at brunches, family dinners, potlucks, or as an easy holiday dessert. The vibrant color and tangy flavor make it a showstopper for Valentine’s Day or any celebration. For another fruity, crowd-pleasing dessert, see this related recipe: Easy 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake.

Tips and Variations

Flavor Twists

• Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the topping for crunch.
• Add spice: A dash of cinnamon or cardamom complements the tartness of raspberries beautifully.
• Mix fruits: Combine raspberries with blackberries or cherries for a deeper flavor.
• Chocolate lovers: Sprinkle chocolate chips over the crumble before baking for a raspberry-chocolate twist.

Texture Perfection

If you prefer a crispier top, bake for a few extra minutes until deep golden brown. For a more buttery, soft cobbler texture, reduce the bake time slightly. The flexibility of this recipe makes it foolproof—whether you like it gooey or crumbly, it always turns out delicious.

Storage and Reheating

How to Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors intensify as it sits, making it even tastier the next day. To freeze, cool the cake completely and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating for Fresh Flavor

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or warm the entire dish in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. This brings back the buttery aroma and crisp texture. Serve it warm with ice cream or whipped cream for that fresh-from-the-oven experience.

FAQ

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of pie filling?
Yes, mix 4 cups frozen raspberries with ½ cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cornstarch to make your own quick filling.

Can I use chocolate or white cake mix instead of vanilla?
Definitely. Chocolate adds richness, while white cake mix gives a lighter flavor.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter gives the best flavor and texture, but margarine can work in a pinch.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free cake mix for a perfect gluten-free version with the same great taste.

Do I need to stir the layers together?
No. Keep the fruit and topping separate for the best texture contrast between crisp and gooey.

Conclusion

This easy raspberry dump cake is proof that a simple recipe can still feel special. With just three ingredients, it creates layers of bright fruit flavor and buttery crumble that taste like summer sunshine. Whether served warm or cold, it’s an easy, reliable dessert that always impresses. You’ll love how effortless it is—and your guests will love how delicious it tastes. Keep this recipe handy for every occasion when you need something quick, comforting, and irresistible.