Irresistible 3-Ingredient Dump Cake Cherry Delight Recipe

Let me tell you about my not-so-secret weapon for last-minute desserts, Dump Cake Cherry Delight. This magical dessert has saved me more times than I can count when unexpected guests show up or when I need something sweet in a hurry. Just dump, bake, and voilà! You’ve got a warm, gooey, cherry-filled treat that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

I first learned this recipe from my Aunt Martha during a chaotic family reunion when we needed to feed a crowd with minimal effort. Now it’s my go-to for potlucks, weeknight treats, or when I’m just craving that perfect combo of tart cherries and buttery golden topping. The best part? It comes together in about 10 minutes flat before baking, no fancy techniques, no stress, just pure deliciousness.

Why You’ll Love Dump Cake Cherry Delight

Trust me, this isn’t just another dessert, it’s a game changer! Here’s why it’s become my forever favorite:

• Dump-and-go magic: No mixing bowls, no fancy techniques, just layer and bake. Even my 8-year-old nephew can make this!
• Pantry superhero: Uses just 3 simple ingredients you probably have right now (I’ve even used frozen cherries in a pinch).
• Crowd pleaser: That perfect balance of tart cherries and buttery sweetness makes everyone ask for seconds.
• Time saver: From craving to eating in under an hour, perfect for those “I need dessert NOW” emergencies.

Seriously, I’ve made this for book clubs, birthday parties, and even fancy dinners (shh…no one needs to know how easy it was). The compliments never stop!

Ingredients for Dump Cake Cherry Delight

Here’s the beautiful part, you only need three simple ingredients to make magic happen:

• 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling, Look for the good stuff with plump cherries, not just syrup!
• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix, The classic choice, but honestly any flavor works in a pinch.
• ½ cup melted butter, Real butter makes all the difference here, trust me.

That’s it! I always keep these staples in my pantry for dessert emergencies. Sometimes I’ll toss in a handful of chopped pecans if I’m feeling fancy, but the basic trio never fails me.

Equipment Needed for Dump Cake Cherry Delight

Here’s the beauty of this recipe, you barely need any tools! Just grab:

• A 9×13-inch baking dish, Glass or metal both work great. No dish? A large oven-safe skillet does the trick in a pinch!
• A mixing spoon, Though honestly, I’ve used a butter knife to spread the filling when I couldn’t find mine.

That’s seriously it, no mixer, no fancy gadgets. Just dump and go! (Though I won’t judge if you lick the spoon clean after spreading the filling.)

How to Make Dump Cake Cherry Delight

Okay, let’s get to the fun part, making this ridiculously easy dessert! I’ve made this so many times I could do it in my sleep, but I’ll walk you through each step so yours turns out perfect.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

First things first, fire up that oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, grab your baking dish. I don’t usually grease mine (the butter in the recipe does the job), but if you’re worried about sticking, a quick spray of cooking oil won’t hurt.

Step 2: Layer the Cherry Filling

Now pour those beautiful cherry pie fillings into your dish. Here’s my trick: use a spoon to gently spread it out evenly, making sure to get cherries in every corner. You want a nice, uniform layer, no big clumps in one spot and bare spots in another!

Step 3: Add the Cake Mix

Here comes the “dump” part! Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cherries. Don’t stir! I know it’s tempting, but resist. Just let it sit there like a fluffy blanket. Pro tip: hold the box up high as you sprinkle, it helps distribute the mix more evenly.

Step 4: Drizzle with Butter

Now for the magic touch, that melted butter. Drizzle it slowly over the entire surface, trying to cover as much of the cake mix as possible. I like to do a zig-zag pattern to make sure I don’t miss any spots. This is what creates that irresistible golden, crispy topping!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop it in the oven and let the magic happen! Bake for about 40 minutes, you’ll know it’s done when the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges are bubbling slightly. Your kitchen will smell amazing! Let it cool for just a few minutes before serving (if you can wait that long).

Tips for the Best Dump Cake Cherry Delight

After making this dozens of times, I’ve picked up some tricks that take it from good to “wow!” Here are my favorites:

• Butter upgrade: Instead of melting, try slicing cold butter into thin pats and scattering them over the cake mix, creates extra crispy pockets!
• Nutty twist: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top before baking for crunch (my husband’s favorite version).
• Spice it up: A dash of cinnamon or almond extract in the cherry layer adds amazing depth.

The best part? Even if you “mess up,” it still tastes incredible, that’s the beauty of dump cakes! If you are looking for more easy dessert ideas, check out other recipes.

Serving Suggestions for Dump Cake Cherry Delight

Oh, you’re going to love this part! I always serve my Dump Cake Cherry Delight still warm from the oven, that’s when the magic really happens. A big scoop of vanilla ice cream melting into the cherry filling is absolute perfection. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll add a dollop of fresh whipped cream and maybe some slivered almonds for crunch. My neighbor swears by drizzling caramel sauce on top (and honestly, she’s not wrong). For breakfast (yes, I said breakfast!), a spoonful of Greek yogurt cuts the sweetness just right. Trust me, no matter how you serve it, those happy “mmm” sounds will make your day!

Storing and Reheating Dump Cake Cherry Delight

Here’s the good news, if you somehow have leftovers (rare in my house!), they keep beautifully. Just cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer slices to an airtight container. It stays fresh at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, I pop individual servings in the microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm and gooey again. For that fresh-from-the-oven crispness, a quick 5 minutes in a 350°F oven works wonders. The cherries might get a bit juicier as it sits, which I think makes it even better!

Dump Cake Cherry Delight Variations

Oh, the possibilities! Once you’ve mastered the classic cherry version, try these fun twists that keep the same easy “dump” method:

• Fruit swap: Blueberry pie filling with lemon cake mix is my summer go-to. Apple filling with spice cake mix? Absolute fall perfection!
• Chocolate lover’s dream: Use chocolate cake mix with cherry or raspberry filling, top with chocolate chips before baking.
• Tropical vibes: Pineapple filling with coconut cake mix and a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top.

The beauty? You can’t mess it up, just pick your favorite flavors and dump away!

Dump Cake Cherry Delight FAQs

I’ve gotten so many questions about this recipe over the years, here are the ones that pop up most often with my tried-and-true answers:

Can I use homemade cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! I’ve done this when cherries were in season, and it’s delicious. Just make sure your homemade filling isn’t too runny, you want that thick, jammy consistency.

Why is my cake soggy in the middle?
This usually means you didn’t distribute the butter evenly. Next time, take an extra minute to drizzle slowly, making sure all the dry spots get covered. And don’t skip preheating the oven!

Can I make this ahead of time?
You bet! Assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it’ll be going in cold.

Can I use oil instead of butter?
Technically yes, but butter gives that irresistible crisp topping oil can’t match. If you must substitute, try melted coconut oil for better texture. For more baking tips, check out other easy desserts.

Nutritional Information for Dump Cake Cherry Delight

Here’s the scoop on what you’re enjoying (because let’s be real, we’re all having seconds!): Each serving clocks in at about 250 calories, with 45g carbs and 8g fat. Now, these numbers can dance a bit depending on your exact ingredients, like if you go wild with extra butter or swap in sugar-free pie filling. My philosophy? Life’s too short to stress over dessert math when something tastes this good!

Share Your Dump Cake Cherry Delight Experience

I’d love to hear about your dump cake adventures! Did you add a special twist? Maybe it became a new family favorite? Drop me a comment below, your baking stories always make my day (and give me new ideas to try!).

For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, check out Recipesloop.

Dump Cake Cherry Delight

A simple and delicious dessert made with cherry pie filling and cake mix.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 12 pieces

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Cake

• 2 cans cherry pie filling
• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1/2 cup butter melted

Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing spoon

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Sprinkle the dry cake mix over the cherry pie filling.
4. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix.
5. Bake for 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Notes

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.