Fresh Cherry Dump Cake Recipe

Fresh Cherry Dump Cake Recipe brings together the bright, juicy flavor of homemade cherry pie filling and a simple, buttery cake mix topping for the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert. Unlike classic dump cakes made with canned fillings, this version uses fresh or frozen cherries simmered with lemon juice and a hint of sweetness—giving the dessert a fresher, richer taste. It’s an easy, prep-ahead dessert that’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or lazy weekends.

Why You’ll Love Fresh Cherry Dump Cake Recipe

• Made from scratch, but still quick and easy
• Uses fresh or frozen cherries
• No mixing bowls needed for the base—just “dump” and go
• Perfectly balances a juicy fruit filling with a crumbly, golden topping
• Pairs beautifully with ice cream or whipped cream

Ingredients

For the homemade cherry pie filling:

• 1.5 pounds of whole cherries, fresh is preferable, but you can use frozen
• 4 tablespoons brown or white sugar
• 4 tablespoons lemon juice
• 4 tablespoons water
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• Optional flavorings: almond extract, vanilla extract, or cinnamon (½ tsp or less)

topping:

• 2 cups yellow cake mix (see notes for alternatives)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Directions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

• Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Lightly grease an 8×11-inch baking dish (or use a 9-inch square or round dish).

Prepare the Cherries

• Wash, pit, and halve the cherries.
• In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, lemon juice, and sugar over medium heat. Stir occasionally.

Thicken the Filling

• In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until fully dissolved (no lumps).
• Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the cherries, stirring constantly.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and cook for 1 minute, just until thickened slightly and glossy.
• Remove from heat and pour the cherry mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Make the Topping

• In a separate bowl, mix the yellow cake mix with melted butter. Stir with a fork or spoon until you get a crumbly texture.

Tip: It should remain a little floury and loose—this is what creates the crisp topping.

Assemble

• Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the cherry layer. It’s okay if some cherry filling is still visible.
• Do not mix or press down the topping.

Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until:
  • The topping is golden brown
  • The cherry filling is bubbling around the edges
• Tip: To check doneness, lift a section of the topping—if it’s still floury inside, bake for a few more minutes.

Cool and Serve

• Let the dump cake cool for 10–15 minutes before serving.
• Enjoy warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, and extra fresh cherries if desired.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Frozen cherries work great—just thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
• Add a ½ tsp of almond extract or cinnamon for flavor depth.
• Swap yellow cake mix with white cake mix for a milder flavor.
• Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for crunch.
• For a larger batch, double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
• Drizzle with cherry juice from the pan for extra indulgence
• Great addition to summer parties, barbecues, or as a weeknight dessert

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in the pan or airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the baked (cooled) dump cake for up to 1 month, wrapped tightly in plastic and foil.
• To reheat: Let thaw, then warm in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 30 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use canned cherry pie filling?
Yes, substitute the homemade filling with one 20–21 oz can of cherry pie filling, but fresh tastes better.

What cake mix works best?
Yellow cake mix is classic, but white or vanilla also pair well with cherries.

Why is my topping still powdery?
Ensure your butter is fully melted and mixed into the cake mix before sprinkling. Bake long enough to cook the topping through.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. Bake it 1–2 days ahead and refrigerate. Reheat slightly before serving.

Conclusion

This Fresh Cherry Dump Cake Recipe is a nostalgic, no-fuss dessert that delivers fresh flavor and comforting texture in every bite. With its juicy cherry filling and buttery topping, it’s perfect for weeknight cravings or summer gatherings alike. Simple enough for beginners, delicious enough for everyone to love—it’s a must-bake!

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