Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, look no further than this Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake. This recipe combines the rich, decadent taste of chocolate with the bright, tart flavor of cherries, all baked in a wonderfully simple way. The beauty of a dump cake lies in its name—just dump the ingredients in the pan, and let the oven do the work! Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in, this dessert is sure to impress.
Imagine a warm, gooey chocolate cake with luscious cherry filling peeking through, topped with a buttery crust that makes every bite a treat. Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy it straight from the pan, this Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake is bound to become a favorite in your home.
Why This Recipe Works
The success of this Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake lies in its simplicity and the combination of flavors. Using a box of chocolate cake mix streamlines the process, allowing for a quicker preparation time without sacrificing taste. The cherries provide moisture and sweetness that perfectly balance the rich chocolate, while the melted butter creates a beautiful, crispy topping. This recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, making it ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.
What You’ll Need
To whip up this delightful Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix – Choose your favorite brand.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter – Cut into thin, small pats for even melting.
- 2 (21 oz) cans cherry pie filling – Make sure to give a quick check for pits!
These ingredients come together to create a dessert that’s not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying to eat.
Equipment & Tools
Before you start baking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- 9×13 inch baking dish – Perfect for baking and serving.
- Mixing spoon – For combining ingredients.
- Oven mitts – To protect your hands when taking the cake out of the oven.
- Measuring cups – To ensure accurate measurements.
With these tools, you’ll be ready to create your Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake without any hiccups.
Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake Made Stepwise
Creating your Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake is a breeze when you follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake will bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease your 9×13 inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Pour the Cherry Filling
Open the two cans of cherry pie filling and pour them into the prepared baking dish. Spread the filling evenly across the bottom.
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the entire box of chocolate cake mix over the cherry filling. Make sure to cover it completely for a balanced flavor.
Step 5: Distribute the Butter
Take your thin pats of unsalted butter and distribute them evenly over the top of the cake mix. This will create that delicious buttery crust as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream or as is!
Seasonal Adaptations
This Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake is versatile and can be adapted for different seasons:
- Spring/Summer: Substitute cherries with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a lighter dessert.
- Fall: Use apple pie filling alongside a sprinkle of cinnamon in the cake mix for a comforting autumn flavor.
- Winter: Incorporate peppermint extract into the cake mix for a festive touch during the holiday season.
- Year-round: Experiment with different flavored cake mixes like red velvet or vanilla for a fun twist!
What Could Go Wrong
While this recipe is straightforward, here are a few pitfalls to avoid:
- Not checking for pits: Make sure to check the cherry pie filling for any pits. They can be quite unpleasant to bite into!
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cake towards the end of the baking time to prevent it from drying out.
- Uneven butter distribution: Ensure that the butter is evenly spread over the cake mix for a consistent topping.
- Using expired cake mix: Always check the expiration date on your cake mix for the best results.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
To keep your Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake fresh, consider the following:
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, cut the cake into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
To reheat, simply place the desired portion in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Quick Q&A
Can I use a different type of fruit filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruit fillings such as peach, apple, or even mixed berries for a different flavor profile.
Is it necessary to use unsalted butter?
While unsalted butter is recommended for better control over the cake’s saltiness, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the cake a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving for the best experience.
What can I serve with this cake?
This Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
Keep Cooking
If you loved this Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake, check out these other delightful recipes:
In Closing
This Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake is a testament to the idea that delicious desserts don’t have to be complicated. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a mouthwatering treat that everyone will love. The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries makes for a perfect pairing, and it’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in this delightful dessert!
Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease your 9x13 inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
- Pour the cherry pie filling into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Evenly sprinkle the chocolate cake mix over the cherry filling.
- Distribute the pats of unsalted butter evenly over the cake mix.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze cut portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
