If you’re looking for a dessert that’s simple yet satisfying, this dump cake recipe might just be the answer. I’ve made it countless times, and it never fails to impress with its crispy topping and gooey center. The best part? You probably already have the ingredients in your pantry. But there’s a trick to getting it just right—let me show you how to nail it every time.
Recipe
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as easy as it’s delicious, this homemade dump cake is about to become your go-to treat. Seriously, it’s so simple—you literally dump the ingredients together and let the oven do the work—but the results are nothing short of magical.
What makes it special? The buttery, crumbly topping that perfectly contrasts with the gooey, fruit-filled base, creating a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite.
I’ve made this countless times for family gatherings, and it never fails to disappear within minutes. Whether you’re a baking pro or a total newbie, this dump cake is foolproof and guaranteed to impress.
Get ready to fall in love with dessert all over again.
Ingredients
Dump cake is the ultimate dessert hack—throw everything in one pan, bake, and enjoy! The key is using ingredients that complement each other to create a gooey, indulgent treat. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
For the Cake Base:
– Canned Pie Filling (21 oz) – Opt for fruit fillings like cherry, peach, or apple. They provide the perfect sweet-tart balance.
Pro tip: mix two flavors for a unique twist (e.g., cherry and blueberry).
– Boxed Cake Mix (15.25 oz) – Yellow or white cake mix works best for a neutral base. Don’t worry about fancy mixes—this is where simplicity shines.
For the Topping:
- Butter (1 cup, melted) – This creates a crispy, golden layer on top. Unsalted butter is preferred to control the sweetness.
- Chopped Nuts (1/2 cup, optional) – Pecans or walnuts add a crunchy texture. Skip if allergies are a concern, but they’re worth it for extra flavor.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Shredded Coconut (1/2 cup) – Adds a tropical vibe and chewy texture.
- Chocolate Chips (1/2 cup) – Perfect for a richer, more decadent dessert.
Pro Tips:
- Use room temperature pie filling for even layering.
- If you’re out of butter, coconut oil can work as a substitute, but butter’s richness is unmatched.
- Fresh fruit can replace canned filling, but adjust sweetness with a sprinkle of sugar.
With these ingredients, you’re just minutes away from a dessert that’s both effortless and irresistible!
How to Make the Best Easy Dump Cake Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and guarantee easy removal later.
- Spread one can of fruit pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. This creates a flavorful base for the cake.
- Sprinkle one box of dry cake mix evenly over the fruit filling. Avoid stirring or mixing—just let it sit on top to form a crumbly layer as it bakes.
- Distribute small cubes of cold butter (1/2 cup) evenly over the cake mix. This step is vital as the butter melts and creates a golden, crispy topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Watch closely toward the end to avoid overbaking.
- Let the dump cake cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
Pro Tip: For added texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped nuts or shredded coconut over the butter layer before baking.
Watch-Out Warning: Don’t overmix or stir the layers—this will disrupt the desired texture of the cake.
Flexibility: If using a smaller pan, adjust baking time by checking for doneness around the 35-minute mark. The cake is done when the top is golden and the fruit layer is bubbling.
Nutrition
Dump cake is a simple dessert that’s easy to make but still packs a flavorful punch. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 20 mg |
| Sodium | 280 mg |
| Total Carbs | 58 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 38 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
Chef Tips
Though dump cake is a simple dessert, a few chef tips can take it from good to great. I always use cold butter for a crispier topping. Spread your fruit filling evenly to avoid pockets of flavor.
Don’t skip the lemon zest—it brightens the dish. Bake until golden brown, not just bubbly. Let it rest before serving so the flavors meld.
These small tweaks make a world of difference!
