Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake

A Decadent and Effortless Dessert

Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake is the ultimate no-fuss dessert, combining rich chocolate flavor with the tart sweetness of cherries. With just a few pantry staples and minimal effort, this dessert delivers a moist, gooey, and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests, craving a quick homemade dessert, or looking for a sweet treat to share, this cake is a winner.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Prep – No mixing or fancy equipment required; simply layer the ingredients and bake.
• Rich and Flavorful – The combination of chocolate cake mix and cherries creates a luscious texture and deep, fruity-chocolate taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for potlucks, family dinners, or last-minute dessert cravings.
• Customizable – Easily switch up ingredients to suit your preferences.

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Ingredients

• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained (optional but adds extra moisture)
• 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

2. Layer the Fruit

Spread the cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. If using crushed pineapple, pour it over the cherries and gently mix.

3. Add the Cake Mix

Evenly sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix over the fruit layer. Do not stir.

4. Drizzle with Butter

Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the dry mix as possible to ensure even baking.

5. Add Toppings

If using, sprinkle chopped nuts and chocolate chips over the top for added crunch and extra chocolatey goodness.

6. Bake

Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is set and slightly crisp. The fruit should be bubbling around the edges.

7. Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, optionally topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

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Variations

• White Cake Mix – Swap the chocolate cake mix for vanilla or yellow cake mix for a different flavor profile.
• Extra Chocolate – Stir in a handful of chocolate chips with the cherry filling for extra richness.
• Nut-Free – Omit nuts for those with allergies or preferences.
• Boozy Twist – Add a splash of cherry liqueur to the filling for a grown-up version.
• Gluten-Free – Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10-12
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the dump cake is done?

The top should be set and slightly crisp, and the fruit should be bubbling around the edges.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

Yes, but you’ll need to sweeten them and add a thickener like cornstarch to mimic the texture of pie filling.

What can I substitute for butter?

You can use margarine or a neutral oil, but butter provides the best flavor.

Do I need to mix the ingredients?

No, the magic of a dump cake is that everything is layered and bakes into a cohesive dessert.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the cake is set.

Is it necessary to use crushed pineapple?

No, but it adds extra moisture and sweetness. You can omit it if desired.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Bake it ahead and reheat before serving. It’s just as delicious the next day.

What type of chocolate cake mix works best?

Any standard chocolate cake mix will work, but devil’s food cake mix provides extra richness.

How can I make it less sweet?

Use unsweetened cherries and a reduced-sugar cake mix.

Can I add other fruits?

Yes! Try mixing in raspberries, blueberries, or sliced peaches for variety.

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Conclusion

Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake is a simple yet indulgent dessert that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself to a sweet treat, this cake is sure to satisfy. Try out different variations, pair it with your favorite toppings, and enjoy this easy-to-make delight!

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