Dump cake is the ultimate no-fuss dessert: no mixing bowls, no complex steps—just a baking dish, a few pantry staples, and a love for comfort food. Whether prepping for a potluck, a last-minute guest visit, or simply craving something sweet with minimal effort, this quick dessert will become your new favorite.
What Is a Dump Cake?
A dump cake is a dessert that lives up to its name. You simply dump all the ingredients—usually fruit filling, cake mix, and butter—into a baking dish and bake until golden and bubbly. In texture, it’s more like a cobbler than a cake, but its simplicity and irresistible flavor make it a timeless classic.
Unlike traditional baking recipes, there’s no need to stir, mix, or beat—this cake practically makes itself. That’s why it’s often called the “lazy cake” or “emergency dessert.”
📚 A Quick History of Dump Cake
The dump cake first gained popularity in the 1960s and ’70s in the U.S. during the convenience food boom. With canned goods and cake mixes becoming kitchen staples, home cooks loved having an easy dessert that required no mixing bowls and zero prep. Over the years, it’s remained a favorite for busy families, potlucks, and anyone craving an effortless dessert.
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Dump Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Can opener
- Butter knife for slicing butter
- Spatula or spoon for spreading ingredients
- Oven mitts
- Measuring cups (if modifying or adding extras)
Ingredients
- 1 can 21 oz cherry pie filling
- 1 can 20 oz crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1 box 15.25 oz yellow cake mix
- ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter, sliced into thin pats
- chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Dump the Fruit
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, dump the entire can of crushed pineapple (juice included) and the cherry pie filling. Spread it out evenly.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the fruit. Do not mix it in.
Step 4: Add the Butter
- Place the pats of butter evenly across the surface of the cake mix. This will melt and create a crisp golden topping.
Step 5: Optional Add-ins
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts or coconut if desired.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly around the edges.
Nutrition Highlights (Per Serving – Approximate)
This dessert is rich and indulgent, so here’s what you’re getting in one serving:
- Calories: ~300–350
- Total Fat: ~14g
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Sugar: ~25–30g
- Protein: ~2g
- Sodium: ~300mg
- Why It’s Irresistible: While not low-cal, it’s satisfying, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly customizable.
🌟 Creative Dessert Variations You’ll Love
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, it’s easy to have fun with different flavors using the same no-fuss method. Whether you’re craving something fruity, chocolatey, or spiced, these simple twists are just as easy and crowd-pleasing.
🍎 Apple Cinnamon Style
- Fruit Base: Canned apple pie filling
- Cake Mix: Spice cake or classic yellow
- Extras: Sprinkle with cinnamon, oats, or chopped walnuts for a cozy, crumble-inspired texture.
🍑 Peach Cobbler-Inspired
- Fruit Base: Canned peaches in syrup or juice
- Cake Mix: Vanilla or white
- Tip: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger for extra warmth.
🍫 Chocolate & Berry Combo
- Fruit Base: Cherry or raspberry filling
- Cake Mix: Chocolate
- Toppings: Add a handful of chocolate chips or nuts on top before baking.
🥭 Tropical Blend
- Fruit Base: Pineapple and mango (fresh or canned)
- Cake Mix: Coconut or vanilla
- Finishing Touch: Sprinkle with shredded coconut before baking to boost the island vibes.
These ideas follow the same effortless layering technique that makes the original recipe so appealing. Each variation stays true to simple ingredients and can easily be made with halal-certified products.
Explore more easy dessert recipes on our site, including mug cakes, cobblers, and no-bake treats.
🧠 Tips for the Best Dump Cake
- Don’t Stir: It’s called a dump cake for a reason—mixing it defeats the layered texture.
- Slice Butter Thinly: This ensures even melting across the top.
- Use Cold Butter: Warm or melted butter may pool unevenly.
- Serve Warm: It tastes best fresh from the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Cover Leftovers: Store in the fridge and reheat portions in the microwave.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- To Store: Cover with foil or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- To Reheat: Microwave individual portions or warm in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes.
- Make-Ahead: You can prep the fruit layer in advance and add cake mix + butter right before baking.
What to Serve with Dump Cake
While dump cake is fantastic on its own, pairing it with the right topping can take it to the next level:
- Vanilla ice cream: The warm cake and cold ice cream contrast beautifully.
- Whipped cream: A light, airy addition that enhances the fruit flavors.
- Custard or crème anglaise: For a richer dessert.
- Fresh berries or mint leaves: Add freshness and color.
- Drizzle of caramel or chocolate syrup: For an indulgent twist.
♻️ Ingredient Substitutions & Dietary Tweaks
If you want to modify the dump cake to suit dietary needs or ingredient availability, here are some tips:
For a Healthier Version:
- Use sugar-free pie filling or low-sugar canned fruit.
- Choose a reduced-fat cake mix or make a homemade dry cake mix using oat or almond flour.
- Swap butter for coconut oil or a plant-based vegan butter.
For Gluten-Free:
- Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix. Most major brands offer one.
For Vegan:
- Ensure the cake mix is egg- and dairy-free.
- Use vegan butter and fruit filling with no gelatin.
🧁 Can You Make Dump Cake in Advance?
Yes, and it stores beautifully!
- Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the fruit and dry mix in the pan, then cover and refrigerate. Add butter and bake just before serving.
- Freeze It: You can freeze baked dump cake for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly and thaw before reheating.
💬 Common Questions About Dump Cake
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, but make sure it’s juicy! You may need to add some sugar and liquid (like juice or water) to mimic canned filling.
Why is my dump cake dry in places?
This usually happens if the butter isn’t distributed evenly. Be sure to cover as much of the dry mix as possible with butter slices.
Can I microwave dump cake?
It’s not ideal, but you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Making the whole dump cake in a microwave isn’t recommended for texture.
How long does dump cake last in the fridge?
Up to 5 days. Cover tightly to keep it from drying out.
💡 Summary: Why Dump Cake Is Worth the Hype
Dump cake is proof that great desserts don’t need complicated steps or expensive ingredients. In under an hour, you’ll have a gooey, golden, fruit-packed treat that pleases both kids and adults. Perfect for busy days, potlucks, and beginner bakers—dump cake is the shortcut to sweet success.
❓What’s Your Favorite Combo?
Have you made a dump cake before? What flavors do you love most—apple cinnamon, cherry chocolate, or something unique?
👇 Drop your favorite version in the comments below and don’t forget to tag us when you try this easy recipe!
