Need a quick dessert fix? Try this easy chocolate cherry dump cake recipe made with rich chocolate and tart cherries for a homemade treat that’s perfect for weeknights, save for later and indulge in this family favorite dessert

Easy Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake Recipe for Dessert

Introduction

Indulge in the rich flavors of chocolate and cherry with our incredibly easy and delicious dump cake recipe, perfect for any dessert occasion. This mouthwatering treat combines the simplicity of everyday ingredients with the creativity of layering textures and flavors, resulting in a dessert that’s both impressive and effortless to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to delight with its ease, flavor, and the joy of creating something truly special from scratch.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of chocolate and cherry provides a perfect balance of flavors, and the ingredients are easily accessible in most grocery stores.
Ease of preparation: The dump cake method simplifies the baking process, requiring minimal preparation and mixing, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute dessert needs.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, this dessert presents beautifully and tastes divine, making it perfect for entertaining guests or satisfying your family’s sweet tooth.

Key Ingredients

This recipe features a few key ingredients that make it truly special. You’ll need a box of chocolate cake mix, a can of cherry pie filling, a stick of unsalted butter, and some semi-sweet chocolate chips. For those looking for substitutions, you can use other types of cake mix or pie fillings, such as raspberry or blueberry, to create different flavor combinations. Additionally, if you prefer a lighter butter flavor, you can use a vegetable oil spread as a substitute.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare your ingredients by opening the can of cherry pie filling and placing it into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the filling evenly across the bottom of the dish.
Step 2: Open the box of chocolate cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the cherry pie filling. Make sure to cover the entire surface with the mix.
Step 3: Melt the stick of unsalted butter and pour it over the cake mix, ensuring that all of the mix is moistened. This step is crucial for the cake to bake properly and to create a beautiful, golden-brown crust.
Step 4: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips over the top of the cake. This adds an extra layer of chocolate flavor and creates a delightful textural contrast. Place the dish in the oven and bake for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly.

Handy Tips

To ensure the cake bakes evenly, avoid overmixing the ingredients, as this can lead to a dense cake. Instead, gently spread the cake mix over the cherry filling and drizzle the butter evenly.
For an extra crispy top, broil the cake for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Consider using different types of chocolate chips or nuts to add more texture and flavor variations to your dump cake.

Heat Control

Maintaining the right oven temperature is crucial for this recipe. Ensure your oven is at 350°F (180°C) before baking. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s essential to check the cake after 35 minutes and then every 5 minutes thereafter until it’s done. The cake is ready when the top is golden brown, and the cherry filling is bubbly and slightly caramelized around the edges.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right crunch factor in your dump cake can elevate the dessert experience. The combination of the crispy, golden-brown cake top and the gooey, sweet cherry filling provides a delightful textural contrast. To enhance the crunch, ensure the butter is evenly distributed and consider adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts over the chocolate chips before baking.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

For a professional finish, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the filling to set slightly, making it easier to serve clean slices.
Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. While semi-sweet chocolate chips are recommended, feel free to experiment with dark or milk chocolate for different flavor profiles.
To make cleanup easier, line the baking dish with parchment paper before adding the ingredients. This prevents the cake and filling from sticking and makes washing up a breeze.

Storage Tips

Leftover dump cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven until warm and bubbly.
For longer storage, consider freezing the baked and cooled cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen dump cake can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
When storing, it’s best to use containers that are airtight and moisture-proof to keep the cake fresh and prevent it from becoming soggy.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This dump cake makes a wonderful gift, especially for coworkers, neighbors, or as a potluck contribution. Consider packaging individual servings in decorative jars or containers, topped with a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or chopped nuts. You can also wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and tie it with a ribbon, adding a gift tag with warming instructions for a personal touch.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Different spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
🌟 Creative toppings: Experiment with different types of nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, or try adding a layer of caramel sauce before baking for an added depth of flavor.
🌟 Ingredient swaps: Use different flavors of cake mix, like lemon or orange, paired with complementary pie fillings for a refreshing dessert option.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the cake turns out too dense, it may be due to overmixing the ingredients. Try to mix the cake mix and butter just until they are combined, and then stop mixing.
Ingredient replacements: If you’re out of a specific ingredient, don’t be afraid to substitute. For example, you can use melted coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the cake while it’s baking. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent burning. Undercooked cake will be evident if it’s still soggy in the center; return it to the oven for a few more minutes and check again.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the dump cake after it has been baked and cooled. Wrap it tightly and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Is it gluten-free? Depending on the cake mix used, this recipe can be adapted to be gluten-free. Look for gluten-free cake mix options and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double this recipe by using a larger baking dish and doubling all the ingredients. Keep in mind that the baking time may be longer for a larger cake, so monitor it closely towards the end of the baking time.

Conclusion

With its ease of preparation, impressive presentation, and delicious flavor combination, this easy chocolate cherry dump cake recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert solution or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe has you covered. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and flavor variations to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking, and enjoy the delightful experience of savoring a warm, freshly baked dump cake straight from your oven!

Easy Chocolate Cherry Dump Dessert Cake