Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

If you’re in the mood for a dessert that’s as simple as it is delicious, look no further than this Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake. This delightful treat combines the rich flavors of chocolate cake and sweet cherry filling into a luscious dessert that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum satisfaction. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. Let’s dive right into the details of how you can whip this up in no time!

Why It Works Every Time

The beauty of a dump cake lies in its name: you literally dump the ingredients into a baking dish and let the oven do the work. The combination of a boxed chocolate cake mix and cherry pie filling creates a perfect balance of flavors. The chocolate cake becomes rich and fudgy, while the cherry filling adds a burst of sweetness and tartness. The butter on top melts as it bakes, creating a crispy, golden crust that adds texture to this indulgent dessert.

What We’re Using

To make this Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix – For that rich chocolaty flavor.
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter – Cut into thin, small pats to ensure even melting.
• 2 (21 oz) cans cherry pie filling – Check for pits and ensure they’re sweet and juicy.

Equipment & Tools

Before you start baking, gather these essential tools:

• 9×13-inch baking dish – Perfect size for your dump cake.
• Mixing spoon – For combining ingredients, if needed.
• Knife – To cut the butter into pats.
• Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot dishes!

Directions: Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and comes out perfectly cooked.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with non-stick spray or a bit of butter to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Layer the Cherry Filling

Open the cans of cherry pie filling and pour them into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom. If desired, you can mix in a bit of the chocolate cake mix for added flavor.

Step 4: Add the Cake Mix

Sprinkle the entire box of chocolate cake mix evenly over the cherry filling. Make sure to cover the cherries completely for the best results.

Step 5: Top with Butter

Take your pats of unsalted butter and distribute them evenly over the top of the cake mix. This will melt during baking and create a rich, buttery crust.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the dump cake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.

Spring to Winter: Ideas

This versatile Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake can be enjoyed throughout the year! Here are some ideas for variations:

• In spring, add chopped fresh strawberries in addition to the cherry filling for a fruity twist.
• In summer, serve with fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a refreshing treat.
• In fall, mix in some pumpkin spice to the cake mix for a seasonal flavor.
• In winter, top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive look.

Insider Tips

• For an extra touch, consider adding chocolate chips to the cherry filling for added richness.
• If you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, use a dark chocolate cake mix.
• Make sure to check the cherry pie filling for pits to ensure a smooth dessert experience.
• For a more indulgent dessert, serve with chocolate sauce drizzled on top after baking.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare this Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake ahead of time by assembling it in the baking dish and covering it with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. When you’re ready to bake, just remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.

Leftover dump cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick dessert fix!

Quick Questions

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Yes! You can use fresh cherries, but be sure to pit them and add some sugar to create a syrupy consistency similar to pie filling.

What if I don’t have cherry pie filling?

You can substitute with other fruit fillings like blueberry, apple, or even a mixed berry filling for a delightful variation.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix, and follow the same steps for a delicious gluten-free version.

Is there a way to make this cake healthier?

You can use reduced-fat cake mix and swap out the butter for a healthier oil, like coconut oil, to lighten it up a bit.

Serve with These

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that complements the chocolate and cherry flavors beautifully.
• Fresh Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy, this adds a delightful richness.
• Chocolate Sauce – Drizzle this on top for an extra chocolatey treat.
• Caramel Sauce – A sweet contrast that pairs wonderfully with the cherries.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the tips, tricks, and steps to create your very own Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! This dessert is perfect for any occasion, and its effortless preparation means you can focus on enjoying it, whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering. The rich flavors of chocolate combined with the sweet tartness of cherries create a truly memorable treat that everyone will love. So roll up your sleeves, grab that mixing spoon, and get ready to indulge in a slice (or two) of this heavenly dessert!