If you are looking for a dessert that combines rich chocolate and sweet cherries in a totally effortless way, you have to try this Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake Recipe. It’s one of those magical treats that feels like a special occasion in every bite but requires almost no fuss at all. The moist, fruit-filled base mingles beautifully with the crumbly chocolate cake topping, and the aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is pure comfort food bliss. This recipe is a true lifesaver when you want an incredible dessert that’s fast, delicious, and loved by everyone around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake Recipe lies in its simplicity and accessibility. Just a handful of pantry staples come together to create a dessert bursting with flavor and texture. Each ingredient brings something unique: the cherry pie filling offers juicy sweetness and vibrant color, the chocolate cake mix adds a rich, cocoa-flavored crumb, and melted butter ties it all together with luscious moisture and a perfectly crisp top.
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) chocolate cake mix: The foundation of this cake, it provides rich chocolate flavor and a tender crumb without any prep.
- 2 cans (21 ounces each) cherry pie filling: Juicy, sweet cherries packed with a thick sauce give the cake its fruity heart and beautiful color.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted): Drizzled on top to make the cake mix crisp up and turn golden brown during baking.
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional): Adds a subtle nutty aroma that complements the cherries perfectly.
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional): Sprinkled on top for an extra touch of melty chocolate goodness in every bite.
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures the cake won’t stick and will come out with beautiful edges once baked.
Step 2: Add Cherry Pie Filling
Pour both cans of cherry pie filling into the greased dish, spreading it into an even layer. This juicy layer is the base that makes the cake extra moist and bursting with fruity flavor.
Step 3: Stir in Almond Extract (Optional)
If you’re using almond extract, gently fold it into the cherry filling now to infuse the fruit with a wonderful, subtle nuttiness that elevates the flavor profile.
Step 4: Sprinkle the Chocolate Cake Mix
Carefully sprinkle the dry chocolate cake mix evenly over the cherry layer. Don’t stir it in; the dry mix sitting on top will soak up the juices beneath as it bakes, creating that signature dump cake texture.
Step 5: Drizzle Melted Butter
Drizzle the melted butter evenly across the entire surface, aiming to moisten most of the cake mix. This step helps the cake topping bake into a crisp, buttery crust that contrasts delightfully with the soft cherries below.
Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips (Optional)
Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips over the top for added bursts of chocolate that melt beautifully during baking.
Step 7: Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The top should look set and slightly crisp, and the aroma will fill your kitchen with irresistible chocolate and cherry notes.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This brief rest lets the layers settle, making it easier to serve and enjoy warm with your favorite toppings.
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Topping warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream instantly transforms this cake into an indulgent dessert experience. A sprinkle of toasted almonds or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can add a lovely visual and textural contrast.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of coffee or a smooth glass of milk. For something more festive, try serving it alongside a light, fruity sorbet to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve individual portions in small ramekins with a sprig of fresh mint on top. Or, create a dessert bar with bowls of toppings like chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or maraschino cherries so guests can customize their slice of Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake recipe their own way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, cover your leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for enjoying a few times after baking.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake for longer storage by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently before serving.
Reheating
Reheat leftover portions in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or until warm. To refresh the crisp topping, you can also warm slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fruit instead of cherry?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings like blueberry, apple, or peach. Just make sure the filling is thick enough to prevent your cake from getting soggy.
Is it necessary to use almond extract?
Almond extract is optional, but it adds a delicious depth of flavor that complements the cherries beautifully. If you don’t have it on hand, you can skip it without compromising the overall taste.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and make sure your cherry pie filling doesn’t contain gluten. This swap makes it friendly for those with gluten sensitivities.
How do I get a crispier top on my dump cake?
Make sure to drizzle the melted butter evenly over the entire cake mix surface. Using unsalted butter and baking at 350°F for the full recommended time usually yields a nice crisp crust.
Can I add nuts to this Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake Recipe?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top before baking add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate and sweet cherries.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake Recipe enough for anyone craving a quick, comforting dessert with a handmade feel. Its mix of chocolate and cherry flavors, combined with that irresistible dump cake ease, makes it a go-to recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket. Honestly, it’s one of those rare desserts that brings pure joy with minimal effort, so go ahead and bake it for your next gathering or a sweet treat just because you deserve it.
