2 cans (about 21 ounces each) cherry pie filling — Creates the sweet, fruity base. You can use another pie filling if you prefer.
1 box (about 15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix — Forms the buttery cake-like topping.
3/4 cup (12 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted — Helps the dry cake mix bake into a golden topping.
That's it! No eggs, milk, or extra sugar needed.
A quick note about the cake mix
Use a standard boxed yellow cake mix and don't prepare it according to the package directions. For this recipe, you'll use the dry mix straight from the box.
That's the little shortcut that makes dump cake so easy.
Helpful Tools
You don't need much equipment to make this dessert.
9-by-13-inch baking dish
Measuring cup
Small microwave-safe bowl or saucepan for melting butter
Spoon or spatula
Can opener
Oven mitts
A glass or ceramic baking dish works well. Lightly grease it before adding the filling to make serving and cleanup easier.
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
The classic three-ingredient version is delicious, but one of the best things about dump cake is how flexible it can be.
Change the fruit filling
Cherry is a wonderful choice, but you can use:
Apple pie filling
Blueberry pie filling
Peach pie filling
Strawberry pie filling
Pineapple pie filling
Mixed berry pie filling
Each one gives the dessert a slightly different flavor.
Try another cake mix
Yellow cake mix is a classic choice, but these options are delicious too:
White cake mix
Vanilla cake mix
Butter cake mix
Spice cake mix
Chocolate cake mix
For example, cherry filling with chocolate cake mix creates a rich, chocolate-and-cherry dessert.
Use salted butter
If salted butter is what you have, it will work. The topping may have a slightly saltier flavor, which some people enjoy.
Add a little crunch
If you're happy to use more than three ingredients, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before baking.
They add a lovely crunch and pair especially well with cherry, apple, and peach fillings.
Add a little extra flavor
A pinch of cinnamon, a little almond extract mixed into the cherry filling, or a sprinkle of shredded coconut can give your dump cake a fun twist.
Just remember that these are optional additions. The basic recipe needs only three ingredients.
How to Make a 3-Ingredient Dump Cake
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This is where the fun begins! The preparation is so simple that even beginner bakers can make it with confidence.
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Add the cherry filling
Open the cans of cherry pie filling and spread the filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Use a spoon or spatula to make sure the cherries and sauce are distributed from edge to edge.
You want a nice, even fruit layer so every serving gets plenty of cherry flavor.
Step 3: Add the dry cake mix
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cherry filling.
Try to cover the entire surface, including the corners.
Don't stir the cake mix into the fruit. The layers are meant to stay separate.
Step 4: Pour on the melted butter
Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan.
Slowly drizzle it over the dry cake mix, trying to cover as much of the surface as possible.
Some dry-looking patches may remain. That's common with dump cake, but distributing the butter as evenly as possible helps the topping bake more consistently.
Step 5: Bake until golden
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
Bake for approximately 45–55 minutes, or until the fruit filling is bubbling around the edges and the topping is golden.
If you notice dry patches of cake mix near the end, give the cake a few additional minutes to bake. The exact time will depend on your oven and the type of baking dish you use.
Step 6: Let it rest
Remove the dump cake from the oven and let it rest for about 10–15 minutes before serving.
The filling will be extremely hot straight from the oven, and the short resting time makes it easier to scoop.
Step 7: Serve and enjoy
Spoon the warm dump cake into bowls.
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a little whipped cream if you like.
Watch that buttery topping melt slightly into the warm cherry filling. It's such a simple dessert, but it feels like a special treat!
How to Tell When Dump Cake Is Done
Dump cake doesn't have the same appearance as a traditional cake, so don't rely on the usual toothpick test alone.
Look for these signs:
The fruit filling is bubbling around the edges.
The topping is golden brown in most areas.
There are no large patches of completely dry, powdery cake mix.
The buttery topping looks set rather than wet.
If the top is browning too quickly but the fruit isn't bubbling yet, loosely cover the dish with foil and continue baking until heated through.
What to Serve With Dump Cake
This dessert is lovely on its own, but a few simple toppings can make it even better.
Try serving it with:
Vanilla ice cream: The classic choice. The cold ice cream melting into the warm fruit is irresistible.
Whipped cream: Adds a light, creamy finish.
Vanilla yogurt: A slightly tangy option that balances the sweetness.
Caramel sauce: Especially delicious with apple or peach dump cake.
Chopped pecans: Add a little crunch.
Fresh berries: A colorful, refreshing addition.
For a family dinner, I like serving it warm in individual bowls with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.
For a party, place the baking dish on the dessert table and let everyone serve themselves.
Tips for Making the Best Dump Cake
Spread the cake mix evenly
Try not to leave thick piles of dry mix in one area. An even layer helps the butter reach more of the surface.
Distribute the butter carefully
Pouring melted butter slowly over the cake mix helps reduce dry patches. You can also drizzle it in several passes rather than pouring it all in one spot.
Don't stir the layers
This is a dump cake, not a traditional cake batter. Keep the fruit, dry mix, and butter in layers.
Use the correct baking dish
A 9-by-13-inch dish gives the ingredients room to bake evenly. A much smaller or deeper dish may require a longer baking time.
Let it rest before serving
The filling is very hot when it comes out of the oven. Resting also helps the dessert settle slightly.
Don't worry about a rustic appearance
Dump cake isn't supposed to look perfectly smooth. Some areas will be more golden and crisp than others, and that's part of its charm!
Can You Make Dump Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bake this dessert ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to serve.
For the best topping texture, I recommend baking it the day you plan to serve it. However, you can also assemble the ingredients shortly before baking.
If you assemble it ahead, keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake it within a day. Because the dry cake mix can absorb moisture from the filling while sitting, the final texture may be slightly different.
For a crispier topping, baking just before serving is the way to go.
How to Store Leftover Dump Cake
Because this recipe contains fruit filling, leftovers should be refrigerated.
Allow the dessert to cool, then cover the baking dish or transfer the remaining portions to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
How to Reheat Dump Cake
You can reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Warm in short intervals until heated through, being careful because the fruit filling can become very hot.
For a larger portion, cover the baking dish loosely with foil and reheat in a 325°F (165°C) oven until hot.
If you want to crisp the topping again, remove the foil for the final few minutes.
Can You Freeze Dump Cake?
Yes, although the topping may soften a little after thawing.
Let the cake cool completely, then divide it into freezer-safe containers or wrap portions securely.
Freeze for up to about 2 months for best quality.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Recipe Information
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 45–55 minutes
Resting time: 10–15 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour
Servings: 12
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Main ingredients: Cherry pie filling, yellow cake mix, butter
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called dump cake?
The name comes from the simple preparation method. You add the ingredients directly to the baking dish without making a separate cake batter or mixing everything together.
It's one of the easiest dessert shortcuts around!
Do I mix the cake mix before adding it?
No. Use the dry cake mix straight from the box. Sprinkle it over the fruit filling and then add the melted butter.
Why does my dump cake have dry spots?
Dry patches usually happen when the butter doesn't reach all the cake mix. Try distributing the melted butter more evenly over the surface.
A few small dry-looking areas can happen, but large patches of powdery mix mean the topping may need more time or better butter coverage.
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned pie filling?
You can, but fresh fruit needs additional preparation and may require sugar, thickener, or extra liquid to create a filling that behaves like canned pie filling.
For this particular three-ingredient recipe, canned pie filling is the easiest option.
Can I use a different size baking dish?
A similar-sized dish may work, but changing the size can affect how thick the layers are and how long the cake takes to bake. A 9-by-13-inch dish is recommended for this version.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter gives the topping its rich flavor and texture. Margarine may work, but the result can vary depending on its water and fat content. For the most reliable result, use real butter.
Can I make dump cake in a slow cooker?
Yes, dump cakes can be made in a slow cooker, but the cooking method and timing are different. This recipe is written for the oven, so don't assume the same baking time will apply.
Can I serve dump cake cold?
Absolutely! It's delicious warm, but leftovers can also be enjoyed chilled. The topping will be softer after refrigeration.
Is dump cake supposed to be gooey?
The fruit layer should be soft and juicy, while the topping should be set and golden. It's naturally more like a cobbler than a traditional fluffy cake.
More Easy Desserts You'll Love
If you enjoy simple desserts that don't require a lot of preparation, here are a few more recipes to try:
2-Ingredient Pineapple Dessert Bars — A fluffy, tropical-inspired treat with very little prep.
Sticky Pecan Pie Cookies — Sweet cookies with a rich pecan filling.
Maple Glazed Cookies — Soft, buttery cookies finished with sweet maple icing.
Homemade Crunch Bars — A chocolatey, crunchy treat that's easy to enjoy.
Cinnamon Sugar Biscuit Bites — Little bites with a sweet cinnamon coating.
Caramel Pretzel Bars — A delicious combination of sweet caramel and salty pretzels.
Because one easy dessert recipe is never quite enough!
Leave a Review and Share Your Dump Cake
Did you make this 3-Ingredient Dump Cake?
I'd love to hear how it turned out! Leave a review and tell me which fruit filling you used. Did you stick with classic cherry, or try apple, blueberry, or peach?
If you added ice cream, whipped cream, or a little something extra, share that too.
And if you take a picture of your finished dessert, pin it on Pinterest so other home bakers can find this easy recipe. Your version might inspire someone else's next family dessert!
Approximate Nutrition Information
The following values are estimates per serving, assuming the recipe makes 12 servings. Actual nutrition will vary depending on the brands of cake mix, pie filling, and butter used.
Calories: 340
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 49g
Fat: 15g
Saturated fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 390mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 29g
These numbers are estimates and are provided for general informational purposes.
Final Thoughts
Some desserts take hours to prepare, and others require a long list of ingredients and several mixing bowls.
This 3-Ingredient Dump Cake is wonderfully different.
With canned cherry filling, dry cake mix, and butter, you can make a warm, golden dessert that tastes like a little homemade comfort. It's easy enough for a busy weekday and delicious enough to share with family and friends.
Serve it with vanilla ice cream, enjoy it straight from the baking dish, or save a portion for tomorrow.
The next time you're craving something sweet but don't feel like making a complicated dessert, remember this little recipe.
