Cherry Dump Cake With Golden Buttery Topping (Easy)

Cherry dump cake is a simple, fruit-forward dessert that comes together in just a few steps. With layers of sweet cherry pie filling, buttery yellow cake mix, and a golden, crisp topping, this dessert is perfect for weeknight baking or last-minute entertaining. No mixing bowls or complicated techniques—just dump, bake, and serve.

Ingredients

Fruit Layer

• 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained (optional for pineapple cherry dump cake variation)

Cake Layer

• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix

Butter

• ½ cup (1 stick) butter, cold and cut into small pieces

Optional Add-Ins

• ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts) for topping
• 1 teaspoon almond extract for a deeper cherry flavor

How To Make It

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.

2. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish. If using, sprinkle the crushed pineapple on top. The combination creates a moist, flavorful base.

3. Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit layer. Ensure it covers all the fruit without pressing it down.

4. Dot the top with small pieces of cold butter, spacing them evenly. If using, sprinkle chopped nuts for a crunchy topping.

5. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. You should see the fruit filling peeking through in spots.

6. Remove from oven and let cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. The cake will firm slightly as it cools, making it easier to cut into squares.

Tips

• A common tip is not to mix the layers. The “dump” method works because the cake absorbs moisture from the fruit as it bakes.
• If the butter melts too quickly, try slightly larger chunks or chilled butter for a more textured topping.
• For a sweeter topping, sprinkle 2–3 tablespoons of granulated sugar over the cake mix before baking.
• Using high-quality cherry pie filling can dramatically improve flavor without extra effort. I Am Baker offers a guide on great cherry dump cake recipes.

Variations / Substitutions

• Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake: Swap yellow cake mix for chocolate cake mix for a richer dessert. More on this twist here.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and check the pie filling for gluten-containing thickeners.
• Nut-Free Option: Simply omit the nuts; the cake will remain moist and flavorful.

FAQ

Can I make cherry dump cake ahead of time?

Yes. You can assemble the cake the night before and refrigerate it uncovered. Bake it the next day, adding 5–10 extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.

Can I freeze cherry dump cake?

Absolutely. Cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What if I don’t have pineapple?

The cake works perfectly with just cherry pie filling. Pineapple adds extra moisture and a tropical note, but it’s optional.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes! Yellow or white cake mix works best for a classic flavor. Chocolate or spice cake mixes create interesting variations but will alter the taste profile.

How do I know when it’s done?

The edges should bubble, and the top should be golden brown. Insert a toothpick in the center—the cake mix layer won’t fully set like traditional cake, but it should not be overly wet on top.