Dump Cake Recipe

Cherry pie filling: A sweet and tangy canned fruit filling that forms the base of the cake.

Crushed pineapple: Adds a tropical flavor and moisture to the cake.

Yellow cake mix: The dry mix that creates the cake layer when combined with butter.

Melted butter: Drizzled over the cake mix to create a rich, golden crust.

Chopped nuts: Optional, but adds a crunchy texture to the finished cake.

To ensure an even distribution of the melted butter over the dry cake mix, use a spoon or small ladle to drizzle it slowly. This helps to avoid dry patches in the cake and ensures a more uniform texture and flavor.

• cherry pie filling - Substitute with blueberry pie filling: Blueberry pie filling provides a similar sweetness and texture, making it a great alternative.

• cherry pie filling - Substitute with apple pie filling: Apple pie filling offers a different but complementary flavor profile, adding a touch of tartness.

• undrained crushed pineapple - Substitute with canned mandarin oranges: Canned mandarin oranges bring a citrusy sweetness and similar moisture content.

• undrained crushed pineapple - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce provides moisture and a mild sweetness, making it a good alternative.

• yellow cake mix - Substitute with white cake mix: White cake mix has a similar texture and flavor, making it an easy swap.

• yellow cake mix - Substitute with spice cake mix: Spice cake mix adds a warm, spiced flavor that complements the fruit fillings.

• melted butter - Substitute with melted margarine: Melted margarine provides a similar fat content and moisture, making it a suitable replacement.

• melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil adds a subtle coconut flavor and similar moisture content.

• chopped nuts - Substitute with rolled oats: Rolled oats add a crunchy texture and are a good nut-free alternative.

• chopped nuts - Substitute with sunflower seeds: Sunflower seeds provide a similar crunch and are a great nut-free option.

• Allow the dump cake to cool completely after baking. This ensures that it sets properly and is easier to handle.
• Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to keep the dessert fresh and prevents it from drying out.
• Store the covered dump cake in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the dump cake. Cut the cooled cake into individual portions for easier thawing and serving.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top freezer bag. This double-layer protection helps to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of freshness. The dump cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the dump cake portions in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps to maintain the texture and flavor.
• Reheat the thawed dump cake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 30-60 seconds, depending on your microwave's power.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover dump cake in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cake from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to let the top crisp up again.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Transfer a portion of the dump cake to a microwave-safe plate or bowl.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
  4. Stir gently if needed and continue heating until warm.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Add a small portion of the dump cake to the skillet.
  3. Cover with a lid to help trap the heat and moisture.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
  2. Place the dump cake in an air fryer-safe dish.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
  4. If needed, cover with foil to prevent the top from getting too crispy.

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

• Baking dish: The container where you combine all the ingredients and bake the cake.

• Can opener: Essential for opening the cans of cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple.

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

• Measuring cup: Needed to measure out the 1 cup of melted butter accurately.

• Microwave or stovetop: Used to melt the butter before drizzling it over the cake mix.

• Knife: If using, this is for chopping the nuts to sprinkle on top of the cake.

• Oven mitts: Important for safely handling the hot baking dish when placing it in and taking it out of the oven.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple, and yellow cake mix ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Quickly chop the nuts using a food processor to save time and ensure uniform pieces.

Melt butter in microwave: Melt the butter in the microwave for a faster and easier process.

Combine in one bowl: Mix the cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple in a single bowl before transferring to the baking dish to reduce cleanup time.

Line the baking dish: Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easier cleanup.